Skip to main content

What shoppers should know about plastic-wrapped produce

By Johnita Anthony,
  MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – Grocery shoppers are noticing more fruits and veggies wrapped in single-use plastic, and opinions are split. According to a Yahoo report, some shoppers appreciate the convenience and perceived freshness, while others worry about waste, cost and whether that thin layer actually protects produce. Stores are responding to preferences, but it’s helpful to know what to look for at the produce aisle. Here are practical points to keep in mind so your purchases match your priorities: Freshness vs. waste: Plastic can reduce bruising and moisture loss, but not always enough to justify the extra packaging for every item. Price and value: Packaged produce often costs more per item. Check unit pricing or compare with loose options. Safety and hygiene: Some shoppers prefer wrapping for perceived cleanliness, but rinsing loose produce at home is effective too. Recyclability: Look for recycling symbols — thin film plastic often needs special drop-off recycling, no...

Subscribe to the Youdle Newsletter

* indicates required
I am a (check all that apply):

Shop smart during Kroger’s 12-Day Merry Days of Deals savings event

Image
By Johnita Anthony,
article image

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – The holiday season brings Kroger’s 12-Day Merry Days of Deals savings event — a great chance to save on staples, seasonal treats, and giftable groceries. Expect rotating deals, extra digital coupons for loyalty members, and targeted discounts on frequently bought items. 

Some shoppers can also access medically tailored grocery bundles from Kroger stores, making nutritious options more accessible during the holidays. The event often pairs with fuel points and manufacturer coupons, stretching your savings beyond the grocery aisles.

Here are quick, practical tips to make the most of the event:

  • Sign into your Kroger account daily to load time-sensitive digital coupons.
  • Use pickup or delivery to lock in sale prices and avoid impulse buys.
  • Stock up on nonperishables early, and check unit prices for the best value.
  • Watch for fuel point promotions and manufacturer coupons to lower overall costs.

We recommend comparing sale items to your weekly plan and using lists to stay focused. Check the weekly ad early, note start and end dates for doorbuster deals, and think about freezer or pantry space before bulk buys. 

 You can compare unit prices when you search for products in the Youdle product finder - just sort or use the price comparison filter to find the lowest prices in a grocery store near you. For community-tested shopping insights, join the Youdle Community!

Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

When SNAP benefits will be deposited by state

By Johnita Anthony,
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle)   – With the federal government shutdown officially ended, households across the country are waiting to learn when their   November SNAP benefits   will arrive. Even with updated federal guidance in place, states are rolling out payments unevenly. Some states restored full funding immediately; others are still processing updates or issuing only partial benefits. To help caregivers, shoppers, grocers, and community leaders navigate the changing landscape, Youdle has compiled a clear, simplified overview  as of November 14, 2025 . Food access depends on information. This is where every state stands right now. National Overview The USDA has instructed all states to  issue full November SNAP benefits , but operational realities vary. Across the country, Youdle’s analysis shows five categories: Full Benefits Issued Partial Benefits Issued (50–65%) Pending / Not Updated Suspended State-Funded Support This affects when households can buy groceri...
Read more

Weekly Recall Roundup: Major Listeria Outbreaks and Ice Cream Alerts

By Johnita Anthony,
Weekly Recall Roundup: Listeria Outbreaks and Ice Cream Allergen Alerts This week’s grocery watch highlights several major recalls and public-health alerts affecting everyday shoppers and store operators. Federal agencies and retailers have pulled multiple ready-to-eat pasta items and fresh fruit over concerns about Listeria, linked in some reports to serious illnesses and deaths. At the same time, a nationally distributed ice cream bar has been voluntarily recalled for an undeclared wheat ingredient, prompting allergen warnings and product removals across multiple supermarket chains. Shoppers with allergies, compromised immunity, or who purchase refrigerated/prepared meals should check package lot codes and discard or return any matching products. Grocers should prioritize removing affected lots from shelves, updating point-of-sale and inventory systems, and communicating clearly to customers both in stores and online. Maintaining supplier traceability and rapid internal reca...
Read more

When to wash produce for maximum freshness and safety

By Johnita Anthony,
  MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – When you bring produce home, deciding whether to wash it right away or wait can affect both safety and shelf life. The simple rule: wash produce that’s going straight to the kitchen before eating, but hold off on washing items you’ll store. Moisture speeds spoilage and invites mold, so keeping berries, greens, and herbs dry in the fridge will stretch their life. For firmer produce with tougher skins — apples, potatoes, citrus — a quick rinse before storing is fine, but dry thoroughly. Before eating: rinse under cool running water and gently rub to remove dirt and residues. Don’t use soap or vinegar—water and friction do the job. For storage: keep pre-washed bagged greens sealed; wash only before serving. Dry produce completely (salad spinner or paper towels) to slow spoilage. Use a dedicated produce brush for roots like potatoes and carrots. For busy shoppers, small habits save money and time: label washed batches, store dry items in breathable co...
Read more