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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...

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What shoppers should know about plastic-wrapped produce

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By Johnita Anthony,
article image 

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, not curbside pickup.

For everyday shopping, think about what matters most to you: minimizing waste, saving money, or protecting fragile items for transport. If you’re unsure, try small experiments—buy a mix of wrapped and loose to compare spoilage and convenience over a week. Small changes add up, and talking to store managers can influence what ends up on shelves.

See real-time produce prices, compare options, and build your shopping list on Youdle — then discuss what’s showing up in your stores inside the Youdle Community!

To learn more about the rise of plastic-wrapped produce, see the original report here.

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