Plastic Packaging Cuts Grocery Prices, Study Finds

Eliminating plastic could raise costs for consumers by over 20%, report says

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:06am

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A vibrant abstract illustration using simple geometric shapes and primary colors to conceptually represent the economic benefits of plastic packaging for consumer goods.A study finds plastic packaging plays a critical role in keeping consumer goods affordable, raising questions about the economic tradeoffs of eliminating plastics.Arlington Today

A new study from the American Consumer Institute has found that plastic packaging plays a critical role in keeping everyday consumer goods affordable. The report states that eliminating plastic could raise grocery prices by up to 21.6%, as plastics help reduce production and distribution costs.

Why it matters

As pressure mounts to reduce plastic waste, this study highlights the economic tradeoffs consumers may face if plastic packaging is eliminated. Affordable access to consumer goods is an important consideration as policymakers weigh environmental regulations.

The details

The study, commissioned by the American Consumer Institute, found that plastic packaging helps lower the costs of producing, storing, and transporting consumer goods. Eliminating plastic could lead to price increases of up to 21.6% for everyday items like food and household products.

  • The study was released on April 15, 2026.

The players

American Consumer Institute

A nonprofit research organization that focuses on consumer-related economic issues.

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The takeaway

As policymakers consider measures to reduce plastic waste, this study highlights the potential economic tradeoffs for consumers that would need to be carefully weighed against environmental benefits.