Shuman Farms, a leading year-round producer and shipper of Vidalia and Peruvian sweet onions, announced big changes to the look, feel and sustainability of its organic packaging. Through the use of a different netting and thinner film, the plastic in the new consumer bags will be reduced by 38 percent while maintaining the structural integrity of packaging.

“The revamp of our organic packaging is just the beginning of an overall initiative to increase sustainability across all of our RealSweet brand products,” said John Shuman, president Shuman Farms. “Innovative marketing is a part of our core values, and we believe that innovation should lead to more sustainable offerings at retail following trends of consumer and retailer demand.”

The goal of this new initiative is to reduce plastic usage, educate consumers on the recyclability of onion packaging and address shopper concerns about food waste in America. Like the rest of the RealSweet brand line of consumer bags, the redesigned organic packaging reduces shrink by design, allowing good airflow around the onions to keep them fresh.

In addition to shopper feedback, the focus of educating consumers on reducing food waste also stems from  Shuman Farms’ partnership with Feeding America. According to Feeding America, 40 percent of food in America goes to waste, and yet one in eight struggle with hunger.

“We are looking forward to unveiling the new packaging at the upcoming Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations Organics & Food Service show in Nashville,” continued Shuman. “This show is the perfect platform to showcase the new look and feel and share information on the future of Shuman Farms’ overall sustainability efforts.”

Attendees of the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations are invited to see the new packaging by visiting Shuman Farms Booth No. 301.