In a bold move that could reshape the future of ready meal packaging, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced the launch of the UK’s first dual-cooking paper fibre tray – an innovative packaging solution trialled on its popular Fiery Chicken Tikka Masala.
This new tray, made from FSC-certified renewable paper fibre, can be used in both microwave and oven cooking a breakthrough in the packaging industry where plastic has long been the default material due to its heat resilience. By combining convenience with sustainability, M&S is the first retailer to introduce a tray that ticks all the boxes for modern, eco-conscious consumers.
What sets this tray apart is its home recyclability customers can simply dispose of it in their paper recycling without having to remove the thin plastic lining. That means no extra steps, no confusion, just easier, greener choices.
The tray will initially be available in limited numbers at M&S stores and on Ocado, giving customers a chance to try it out and provide feedback a crucial part of the trial that will help determine if this innovation can be rolled out across the full Meal for Tonight range.
If successful, the tray could replace 150,000 plastic trays annually and more importantly, this trial could pave the way for eliminating millions more as the brand targets a billion plastic units removed by 2028 under its Plan A sustainability roadmap.
Tackling the plastic problem
Traditionally, ready meals have been a tough nut to crack for sustainable packaging. Balancing durability, food safety, and heating methods has meant plastic often remained the go-to option. But this new paper fibre tray, developed in collaboration with 2SFG and GPI, challenges that norm.
“This is more than just a packaging trial it’s a statement of intent,” said Andrew Clappen, Technical Director at M&S Food. “We’re pushing boundaries to deliver solutions that support our journey to net zero by 2040. Our customers expect high-quality, responsibly sourced food, and this innovation is one more way we’re showing that sustainability and quality can go hand in hand.”
Ben Fogle, M&S Food’s Plan A Ambassador, echoed the excitement: “This tray is a game-changer. To see something that’s recyclable, works in both the oven and microwave, and still looks and feels premium that’s what innovation should be. Small changes like these, when done at scale, can make a huge impact.”
As customer expectations for sustainable packaging continue to grow, M&S’s paper fibre tray demonstrates what’s possible when innovation meets purpose. It’s smart, it’s sustainable, and it could just be the future of how we enjoy our ready meals.
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