Tesco has announced the launch of a new range of feminine hygiene products that are either organic or reusable. The move makes Tesco the first retailer in the UK to introduce these products to its shelves.
The range – Time of the Month, or TOTM – comprises pads, liners, two applicator tampons in different absorbencies, and a reusable menstrual cup.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Exclusive to Tesco, TOTM’s tampons, pads and liners are made of non-GM, organic cotton and eco-friendly alternatives, such as biofilm wrappers and biodegradable applicators.
TOTM founder St John Burke, said, “We’re excited about this exclusive partnership with Tesco and see this as an opportunity for more women to switch to organic and eco-friendly alternatives.”
The range is cruelty-free and has been registered with the Vegan Society. The packaging is also made of organically derived materials.
Plastic Pollution
The presence of chemicals and plastic in feminine-care products have been a cause of worry for customers and environmentalists in the past – something that Tesco is seeking to address with the new range.
“Not only can Tesco customers reduce plastic by switching to products in our range, but they can also feel reassured by knowing these products have been designed to be kinder to their bodies,” Burke added.
An average user disposes around 150 kilograms of tampons, pads and applicators in her lifetime, around 90% of which is plastic.
Much of this waste ends up in landfills or in the oceans, and it can take over 450 years for these sanitary products to decompose.
‘A Step In The Right Direction’
Eco-campaigner Ella Daish said, “It is great that Tesco is taking a step in the right direction by supplying TOTM's range of eco-friendly period products across stores nationwide. This is incredibly important because it raises awareness of the environmental issues and gives customers access to a much-needed choice that benefits all.”
TOTM will also make donations to Endometriosis UK from the sales of its products in Tesco outlets.
© 2018 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.