Last week, the Internet exploded when a tweet showing Whole Foods' pre-peeled oranges surfaced. Since then, the tweet went viral and sparked outrage, prompting the company to pull it off the shelves.
Today, there's a new challenger on the block, this time, it's pre-peeled and cut avocado halves. The product was spotted at a Sobeys grocery store in Ontario, Canada. The post, which is now widely shared, was put online by Christine Kizik on Facebook, with the caption:
Surprised and disappointed after a friend posted a picture of an avocado for sale at his local Sobeys in Thornhill, ON. It's been precut, then wrapped in plastic and cardboard. Avocado's have their own perfect, compostable, wrapping. Adding packaging to an avocado is strange to say the least. This is wasteful and I'm curious about the reasoning for Sobeys stocking avocodo this way? Looking forward to a response. Thank you.
Since then, the post garnered over 300 reactions and 200 comments. Most comments slam Sobeys' move saying that it is wasteful and unnecessary. However there are others who are supporting the move, given that the product makes it convenient for disabled persons to enjoy the fruit.
Sobeys replied to Kizik's post, saying:
Thanks for sharing this with us Christine. This product was developed for people who might be new to using avocados and for a little more convenience. It eliminates the guess work when it comes to ripeness and any challenges if you are not familiar with peeling and seeding a fresh avocado. The packaging is there to keep the fresh wholesome appearance and quality of the avocado without it browning prior to consumption.
There are several disabled groups who cried foul at the negative press this product, along with the pre-peeled oranges, has received. People with limited hand dexterity are unable peel the fruits themselves, limiting their access to healthy food.
What do you think? Should these products be lifted off the shelves or are detractors right in stating that it's wasteful? Tell us in the comments!
