Fresh produce grower and supplier Jepco has launched its hydroponically produced own label ‘Living Lettuce’ innovation into Co-op stores nationwide.
Packaged in sustainable and 100 per cent recyclable and compostable paper bags, the whole head lettuce that comes with a root system intact is a great alternative to fresh bagged salad leaves and comes with a whole range of benefits to consumers, the firm says.
The hydroponically grown living leafy salads are produced and packed at Jepco’s dedicated site in Essex, 52 weeks of the year, and have a shelf life of at least seven days, once purchased, it adds.
“We are delighted with our Co-op partnership – our Living Lettuce will be the first of many hydroponically grown, fresh, rooted salad produce that we hope to be able to offer UK consumers.” says Jepco general manager Simon Creasey.
“We have the only deep-water system in the UK currently and we see this as the future of fresh produce buying for British consumers because of all the added benefits including quality, shelf-life and flavour.
“If the root system is kept in water, shoppers can enjoy fresh salad leaves for distinguishably longer than traditional bagged salads, and we are confident that once you have tasted one of these whole head lettuces, you won’t go back to traditional bagged salad leaves,” Creasey said.
Co-op buyer Isobel Anstey added: “This innovative product launched in our stores during May and initial indications are that it is proving very popular with our members and customers particularly those looking to reduce food waste. The sustainable packaging is also resonating with shoppers.
“The quality, flavour and long life of these lettuces, as well as its innovative Kraft paper bag, which has a sustainable and 100 per cent compostable natural coating, means we are offering something on shelf which is hugely exciting to me as a fresh produce buyer.”
Jepco provides a wide range of leafy salads and spring onions to the UK manufacturing, retail, foodservice and wholesale sectors.
From farms in Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Essex and in conjunction with growing partners in Europe, it offers a full 52-week supply.
