Tops launches eco-friendly meat packaging

This initiative aims to reduce CO2-equivalent emissions by around 45 tons.

Tops, a Central Retail subsidiary, has launched an eco-friendly meat packaging for its chilled meat sections.

The move highlights the retention of flavour, freshness, and importance of safety, all whilst utilising top-tier products crafted from natural plant materials that swiftly decompose, replacing conventional plastics. 

“We are excited to introduce groundbreaking sustainable packaging solutions for pork and chicken products, crafted entirely from natural plant fibres that decompose within 45 days, effectively replacing conventional plastics,” said Stephane Coum, chief executive officer of food group at  Central Retail.

Tops emerged as the first in Thailand’s supermarket industry to embrace such packaging, aligning seamlessly with Central Retail’s Green and Sustainable concept, dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality or Net Zero by the year 2050. 

Each unit of eco-friendly packaging is estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 64 grams.

Currently implemented for pork and chicken products, the transition will extend to beef and lamb items, with a goal to cut emissions by over 3 tons of CO2-equivalent by 2024. Moreover, it has also already adopted eco-friendly packaging for fresh cherries, resulting in an 11-ton reduction in CO2-equivalent emissions.

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In 2024, the focus is on reducing carbon dioxide emissions through the use of eco-friendly packaging for fresh cherries and meat products, estimated to achieve a reduction of approximately 45 tons of CO2-equivalent.

“Our journey towards achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 is well underway,” said Coum.

The eco-friendly packaging is now available at all participating branches of Tops and Tops Food Hall.