Tea Bags 1

Asda is to switch the packaging of 550 million teabags to plant-based materials.

The move, which it said would allow the products to be disposed of in kerbside food waste bins, will see Asda switch to new material derived from corn starch.

It will replace the non-renewable oil-based plastic bags previously used.

Asda said it will phase in the new bags over the next six months across its entire range, from Just Essentials to Extra Special.

“We know our customers want to do all they can to reduce their impact on the environment and we want to make that as easy as possible for them,” said Asda packaging technologist Jon Wells.

“Tea is a staple in most customers’ households so for us to make a change which can make such a difference is a big moment for us.”

Adam Herriott, sector specialist at Wrap, said: “It’s positive to hear of further moves by Asda, a founding member of the UK Plastics Pact, to tackle plastic waste. We must continue to go further, and ensure we bring in more changes that benefit shoppers and the environment.”