Sprouts Farmers Market to Feature Mushrooms in Eco-Friendly Packaging
Sprouts Farmers Market has joined forces with North American mushroom grower and supplier South Mill Champs (SMC) to introduce flow-wrapped bamboo tills for its mushroom products, becoming the first retailer to stock SMC’s mushrooms in this cutting-edge, eco-friendly packaging.
“We are dedicated to continuous improvements in our sustainable growing practices,” noted Sandy Malouff-Quintana, VP of fresh sales at Kennett Square, Pa.-based SMC. “Our responsible production methods allow us to grow and produce wholesome mushroom products for consumers, foodservice and retail.”
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The new packaging system consists of flow wrap made from BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene) film and bamboo tills, offering several advantages over traditional plastic mushroom tills, according to SMC. The BOPP film perforation permits natural evaporation, helping to maintain optimal quality, extending shelf life, preventing discoloration from condensation and lowering the risk of spoilage caused by excess moisture. Further, the flow wrap technology lessens material waste, since the film is precisely cut to fit each product.
In contrast to traditional plastic tills, the bamboo tills are recyclable and biodegradable. Additionally, bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that uses less water than trees and can be harvested without over-harvesting. Naturally heat resistant with minimal moisture absorption, SMC’s bamboo tills currently use no chemical coatings and are made without fossil fuels.
“As a business which focuses on responsibly grown mushrooms, from start to finish, we are uniquely positioned to help our customers practice sustainability and inspire others,” added Malouff-Quintana. “Packaging can be a powerful tool — using eco-friendly materials sends the message that we are serious about helping the environment.”
The new 8-ounce flow-wrapped bamboo tills will start appearing on Sprouts store shelves in Denver this month.
SMC is in the midst of transitioning away from heavy plastics and non-recyclable packaging, with the aim of reducing its overall carbon footprint and further supporting its retail partners with environmentally conscious solutions.
Phoenix-based Sprouts is considered one of the largest and fastest-growing specialty retailers of fresh, natural and organic food in the United States. It employs approximately 35,000 associates and operates more than 440 stores in 24 states nationwide. The grocer is No. 51 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America, as well as PG’s 2024 Retailer of the Year.
