Millennials have been credited with revitalizing the popularity of avocado—whether inserted into sushi rolls, mashed on toast, or added to a salad, avocados have made a comeback in a big way. (And yes, we know that guac is extra.)

Considering this avocado-aissance, Tesco’s latest sustainability initiative offers some really good news for eco-conscious (and taste-conscious) consumers. In its continued efforts to reduce plastic waste, Tesco has begun testing laser-etching technology for avocados. If successful, the process could eliminate the need for traditional plastic stickers on not just avocado but a vast number of other produce items, thereby reducing non-recyclable waste and conserving natural resources.

Tesco’s initial trial relies on precision lasers to carve small labels into the skin of the fruits. The process takes seconds and reportedly does not affect their shelf life or taste. Currently, the trials are focused on extra-large avocados, but the technology seems applicable to smaller items and a variety of surfaces. As the next step in the trial, Tesco has begun selling the laser-etched avocados in 270 stores. If all goes well, the chain hopes to expand availability to all Tesco locations across the United Kingdom.

The actual efficacy of the initiative remains to be seen. Third-party environmental organizations will likely need to audit the results of the trial prior to a large-scale rollout, to confirm how much plastic waste really is being saved; they also might suggest relevant adjustments to the program. Still, considering the widely positive reaction to this innovative approach, Tesco could be catalyzing a positive trend, of honoring commitments to sustainability through transparency, genuine action—and deliciousness.

Discussion Questions

1. Does Tesco’s new initiative indicate a sincere commitment to reducing plastic waste?
2. Describe an innovative sustainability initiative by another grocery retailer. How is it similar to Tesco’s program? How is it different? Is either example indicative of “greenwashing”?

Sources: Sarah Butler, “Unholy Guacamole—Tesco Is Tattooing Its Avocados to Cut Waste,” The Guardian, May 31, 2024; Aoife Morgan, “Tesco Swaps Out Stickers for Laser Barcodes on Avocados to Cut Waste,” Retail Gazette, May 31, 2024; Kristian Bayford, “Tesco in Laser-Etched Avocado Trial to Reduce Plastic Waste,” Fruitnet, June 5, 2024; OpenAI ChatGPT, “Assistance with Research on Tesco’s Laser-Etched Avocados for Sustainability,” ChatGPT, July 28, 2024.