Mince Vac-pack gains retailer support despite backlash from customers

Lidl expects the new packaging will cut plastic use by almost two-thirds. Photo: Lidl

Lidl will start vacuum-packing ground beef in a bid to be more sustainable, despite competitor Sainsbury facing backlash from customers over claims that the process turns the meat into a 'mush'.

The German discounter said it would roll out new packaging for its ground beef. assortment in stores next year, reducing the amount of plastic used by nearly two-thirds.

The move will also double the shelf life of meat from eight to 16 days, Lidl estimates, halving the amount of minced meat that is thrown away in stores.

The news comes just weeks after Sainsbury's vacuum-packed ground beef was launched and sparked controversy among buyers.

The supermarket was forced to defend its own package of ground beef against customer claims that it made the meat «unappetizing» and «disgusting».

One online review says that the packaging method turned «minced meat into mush». «It's very difficult to cook and it smells,» they added.

Sainsbury's insists that the new packaging does not affect the taste or quality of the meat.

Lidl, announcing its own move, said: «When the new packaging hits stores early next year, we know the huge benefits from both an environmental and practical standpoint will be welcomed by our customers.» .

The discounter said the new bags will take up less space in people's refrigerators and freezers and will include an easy-to-peel film so customers don't have to touch raw meat.

This is happening as part of a broader supermarket green movement as more retailers install heat pumps in stores and seek to reduce energy consumption.

Over the weekend, The Telegraph reported that Aldi is turning off the lights in its stores starting this month to cut energy bills and help lower prices for shoppers.

Supermarkets have also been looking at ways to reduce food waste, including Tesco and Asda removing «best before» dates on yogurts, replacing them with «best before» dates earlier this year.

The Wrap charity estimates that the average family throws away £60 worth of food and drink per month, further straining the family budget.