Tesco decided to take an environmentally friendly step

During laser marking, a high-powered laser removes a small part of the skin of the avocados, which leaves a kind of “tattoo” on the fruit. The size and variety of the avocado can also be read on this, making it easier for customers and cashiers. Tesco’s main avocado supplier, Westfalia Fruit, said that the avocado’s thick outer skin is ideal for laser marking, and extensive tests have been carried out to ensure that the quality, taste and shelf life of the fruit are not compromised – writes the Independent.

Tesco sells around 70 million avocados a year and demand has grown by 15% in the past year. Currently, this technology is only used on extra large avocados, as these are the most visible markings. The chain is also testing additional packaging-reducing solutions, for example switching from plastic trays to more easily recyclable cardboard containers for some varieties of avocados. These changes are currently being trialled in 270 stores in the south-east of England, and if they receive positive feedback, they plan to roll them out nationally.