In an effort to further reduce the environmental impacts of its packaging, Pete and Gerry's Organic Eggs, Monroe, N.H., announced what is said to be the industry's first reusable egg carton.

Currently in pilot at the Hanover Co-op Food Stores of New Hampshire and Vermont, the reusable cartons are made of recycled, durable, BPA-free plastic, which can be washed at home and re-used repeatedly. 

"While we are confident in the sustainability of our current carton, which is made from 100% recycled plastic and has less environmental impact than the Styrofoam or molded pulp cartons used by conventional egg brands, we continue to challenge ourselves to find even better ways to improve our environmental stewardship," says Jesse Laflamme, chief executive officer. "Reusable cartons are a logical next step in our ongoing commitment to sustainability, moving consumer behavior from recycling to reuse. We plan to expand this program in 2020 to reach even more consumers and amplify the program's impact with major retailers clamoring for this type of sustainable innovation."

"Our consumers expect Pete and Gerry's to be on the leading edge of sustainability," adds Laflamme. "Like many other consumer packaged goods companies, we recognize that reuse is even better than recycling, and we're proud to be at the forefront of this growing movement to help reduce the impact of packaging on the planet. This is a pilot program, but we are emboldened by the initial results and committed to new ways of thinking about how we deliver on our promise to be a responsible force for good."

The reusable cartons boast a suggested retail price of $2.99. Once purchased, consumers can fill it up repeatedly from the Pete and Gerry's display of loose eggs.