Waitrose announced it was pulling recyclable cartons and returning to bottles last month.

Sainsbury’s, however, is predicting switching to milk bags could save up to 1.4M kilograms of packaging every year

And to support the drive 500 of the chain’s stores across the UK will be giving away JUGIT containers on Saturday (May 15).

The reusable containers are used to hold a milk bag and contain a spike that pierces the bag, forms a no-leak seal, and delivers milk through the spout.

Currently available in semi-skimmed two pint packs, the milk bags costs 6p less than a standard bottle of milk.

Sainsbury’s senior dairy buyer, Emma Metcalf-King, said: “The success of the bag and JUGIT is such that the company is now looking at the possibility of rolling it out further across its milk ranges.

“When we first launched milk bags in store, we gave one to every colleague to try.

“Their feedback was so positive that we wanted to do something to encourage our customers to give it a whirl too.

“Milk bags are a great way for us to help the environment and when you can pick one up in store for free, they’re a great way to help the family budget too.”

Luke Walsh

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe