Grocer ALDI has announced that as of January 1, it will be removing eight pesticides from all products in its U.S. stores. The supermarket, which has been known for its low prices, will now focus on organic food in a bid that is sure to give Whole Foods a run for its money.
The pesticides being removed are thiamethoxam, chlorpyrifos, clothianidin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, fipronil, imidacloprid, and sulfoxaflor.
The grocer will also remove some artificial ingredients from its products and add more gluten-free items to its roster. It has also removed certified synthetic colours, partially hydrogenated oils, and MSG from its private-label products.
Additionally, ALDI has expanded its sales of fresh and organic meat and produce, including the “Never Any!” brand of meats that contain no added antibiotics, hormones, animal by-products or other additives. The chain will also grow the SimplyNature line, which is free of more than 125 artificial ingredients, and its gluten-free “liveGfree” brand. The company has also begun to offer more high-end products, including artisan cheeses, smoked salmon, quinoa, and coconut oil.
With this growth, ALDI is certainly competition for Whole Foods. With low prices, a wide selection, and a vast variety of locations across the U.S., ALDI may be set up for a takeover of the organic grocery sector.
There are currently 1,500 ALDI stores in the U.S and they plan to add 500 more by 2018. Currently, there are no ALDI stores in Canada, but industry experts suggest that this could be a future move for the Germany-based retailer.
