Kroger Launches Recycling Program for Its Simple Truth Brand

The Kroger Co. has launched a program that allows customers a free and easy way to recycle flexible packaging, including difficult to recycle produce bags, bread bags and plastic overwrap, of more than 300 products from its natural and organic private-label brand Simple Truth.

Developed in partnership with international recycling leader TerraCycle, the Simple Truth Recycling Program puts Kroger on the map as the first Fortune 25 retailer to offer a free recycling program for its own private-label brand, the Cincinnati-based retailer said in a release. The program also advances its Zero Hunger Zero Waste social impact plan.

"A key part of achieving our ambitious Zero Hunger Zero Waste vision is offering our customers innovative solutions to recycle and reuse product packaging," said Keith Dailey, group VP of corporate affairs and chief sustainability officer, in a release.

Customers can sign up for the Simple Truth Recycling Program at TerraCycle.com/SimpleTruth. They can then start collecting Simple Truth and Simple Truth Organic flexible plastic packaging for shipping to TerraCycle using a free, prepaid shipping label. Customers will earn points for pound of eligible packaging sent that they can redeem as donations to charitable organizations.

"We know more of our customers are seeking out opportunities to reduce their environmental footprint, and we're excited to meet their needs by introducing the Simple Truth Recycling Program—an initiative that not only simplifies the recycling process, but also makes it more rewarding," said Ben Melillo, Kroger's senior brand manager, in a release.

The Simple Truth Recycling Program is open to individuals, schools, offices and community organizations across the U.S. The Simple Truth portfolio includes more than 2,000 natural and organic products, with hundreds of new items launching each year.