Why are some cucumbers sold wrapped in plastic? Science provides the answer

In many supermarkets, some cucumbers are sold wrapped in plastic, while “home-style” varieties sit unwrapped nearby. At first glance, using plastic may seem unnecessary and harmful to the environment, but science tells a different story.

Studies have shown that plastic wrapping slows down moisture loss from cucumbers, keeping them fresher for longer. Cucumbers are over 95% water, so without protection they quickly dehydrate, lose their texture and flavor, and their skin tends to develop soft, dark spots.

Experiments conducted in Switzerland showed that using plastic film reduced the share of spoiled cucumbers from 9.4% to 4.6% during supply chains. In other words, more vegetables end up on plates and less in the trash.

From an ecological perspective, protecting food with plastic reduces the overall carbon footprint because it prevents food loss during transport and storage. The film is usually applied only to thin-skinned cucumbers, like “English” or greenhouse varieties, which are more prone to spoilage, while local varieties with thicker skin do not require extra protection.

So, even though it may seem like an unnecessary luxury, plastic-wrapped cucumbers serve an important purpose: extending freshness, reducing food waste, and helping conserve resources. Science shows that a small amount of plastic can translate into a significant benefit for the planet.

“KORÇA BOOM”