Dole Food Company is taking a significant step towards sustainability by increasing the utilization of Oxifilm, a fully recyclable stretch film, throughout its banana and pineapple operations located in Central America. This strategic initiative is set to be implemented later this month and marks a pivotal change in the way the company handles its packaging materials.

Historically, Dole has relied on traditional palletization materials that include corner boards, straps, and clamps, which contribute significantly to waste. By transitioning to Oxifilm, Dole anticipates a substantial reduction in these conventional materials—estimated at around 85%. This change is projected to result in a decrease of approximately 4 pounds of waste per pallet. Such a reduction is not merely beneficial for the environment; it is also aligned with Dole’s ongoing commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint.

The company’s current sustainability initiatives have already delivered impressive results, with a weekly reduction of 4,850 pounds of plastic in banana packaging alone. When it comes to pineapple packaging, this figure soars to 11,640 pounds per week. With the full adoption of Oxifilm, Dole aims to enhance these outcomes, targeting an overall reduction of an impressive 17,460 pounds of plastic waste weekly across both banana and pineapple products.

In addition to lowering plastic usage, the switch to Oxifilm brings automation to segments of the palletization process, which is expected to enhance efficiency and quality throughout the supply chain. Ana Cristina Obregon, Dole's vice president of tropical products logistics, commented on the initiative, stating, “Scaling up pallet wrapping across our operations is a win for both the environment and our business. We’re significantly reducing the use of plastic while also enhancing efficiency in our supply chain and fruit quality. It’s another step forward in Dole’s commitment to innovation and sustainable agricultural practices.”

Dole has already begun utilizing Oxifilm for its banana operations since June 2023, with plans for its implementation in pineapple production commencing in August 2024 at farms based in Costa Rica and Honduras. Looking ahead, the company is set to introduce additional wrapping machinery to its logistics centers located in Guatemala and Ecuador during the second quarter of 2025. This expansion not only signifies Dole's dedication to sustainability but also highlights the company's proactive approach in enhancing its operational efficiency across Central America.

Ultimately, Dole's increased use of recyclable materials like Oxifilm represents a notable shift towards more environmentally friendly practices in the agricultural sector, reinforcing the importance of innovation in achieving sustainability goals.