Aldi makes big changes to the packaging on popular items including new paper wine bottles as it cuts back on waste

The retailer has switched to 100 per cent recycled plastic (rPet) which will help save an estimated 10,000 tonnes of virgin plastic each year.

It is the latest move by the retailer as part of targets to include 50 per cent recycled content in Aldi plastic packaging by 2025.

Plastics and packaging director at Aldi UK Luke Emery stated: “We know our customers care about how their food and drink is packaged, as well as how it is disposed of and where it goes next. This, coupled with the fact that the reuse of plastic packaging once it has been recycled is a critical industry-wide issue, means we’re doing all we can to reduce our impact.

“Moving to recycled content on our soft drinks range forms part of our efforts to accelerate our progress on this journey. We also hope the new labelling we are introducing will help to remind customers to recycle their packaging after use so we can all do our bit to increase recycling rates in the UK.”

The move to have all own-brand products made from the recycled plastic is a supermarket first. Head of material systems transformation at WRAP Helen Bird added: “We are delighted to see UK Plastics Pact member, Aldi, transitioning all their own-label soft drinks and bottled water to 100 per cent recycled content.

​"Reaching the highest levels of recycled content can only be achieved through action and collaboration across the industry; ensuring packs are designed for optimal recycling, as well as engaging with citizens around how to recycle them.”

Aldi recently swapped traditional glass wine bottles to packs made from 94 per cent recycled paperboard.

The bottles have been used for the Cambalala South African Shiraz (£7.99, 75cl) and Cambalala South African Sauvignon Blanc (£7.99, 75cl).

Not only are they fully recyclable, but they are lined with a food-grade pouch to contain the wine and are five times lighter than a standard glass bottle.

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Swapping traditional glass bottles for paper alternatives helped the supermarket reduce its carbon footprint.

They are easy to carry and shatterproof, making them a great choice of bottle for taking to a picnic.

Managing director of buying at Aldi UK Julie Ashfield said: “Shoppers are striving to become more sustainable in their everyday lives, looking for small ways to make a big difference for our planet.

"Our buying teams are continuously thinking of how we can evolve our ranges to offer greater value and greener choices. We are proud to be the first supermarket to launch an own-brand paper bottle, helping to drive sustainable change.”