In an effort to combat single-use plastics, British supermarkets have made a controversial change that has left hummus lovers feeling frustrated. I recently spoke with shoppers and experts to get their thoughts on the new packaging.
Both Sainsbury’s and Tesco have removed the plastic lids from their store-brand hummus pots to reduce waste. While this initiative is part of a larger trend in the food industry, it’s clear that not everyone is on board.
One shopper expressed disbelief, saying, “I can’t believe they think this is progress for hummus! The new flimsy peel-off covering leads to my favorite dip spoiling too soon.” Another frustrated customer took to X questioning the decision: “Why has Tesco replaced the sturdy plastic lid with a flimsy cover that needs clingfilm? How does this help reduce plastic?”
The supermarkets assert that this packaging change, implemented this month, will save over 50 million pieces of plastic each year—adding up to around 260 tons of waste. The new film cover, similar to those on yogurt containers, is supposed to maintain product quality and shelf life. Tesco has advised that hummus should be consumed within two days of opening to ensure freshness.
However, some shoppers have resorted to using clingfilm to preserve their hummus, inadvertently reintroducing single-use plastic into their routines. In response to this concern, Sainsbury’s pointed out that reusable lids for items like yogurt, dips, and cottage cheese are available for purchase both in-store and online and are designed to last for years.
Despite the criticism, some customers are embracing the change. One shopper shared a practical solution: “We transfer any leftover hummus into a clean ramekin and cover it with a recycled lid from another product.” Others have even suggested making hummus from scratch or finishing off the entire pot in one sitting.
Helen Bird, head of material systems transformation at the sustainability charity Wrap, weighed in on the issue. “Major supermarkets are actively working to eliminate problematic and unnecessary plastic packaging. While these changes may not always be convenient, alternative solutions do exist—like using a small plate to cover your food.”
Historically, changes in packaging have sparked backlash from consumers. Previous instances include complaints about Sainsbury’s vacuum-packed mince, which was likened to a body part, as well as the transition from colored milk bottle lids to clear ones by several supermarkets, including Waitrose and the Co-op.
As part of the UK Plastics Pact, these supermarkets have committed to making 100% of their plastic packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025. A spokesperson from Tesco remarked, “Removing the lids from hummus pots is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste, eliminating over 31 million plastic pieces, which translates to 157 tons annually.”
