A citrus producer in South Australia has introduced laser engraving as an alternative to plastic fruit stickers. Venus Citrus has launched the new labelling method for blood oranges, navels, Cara Cara oranges, and mandarins. It is the first time the technique has been used in South Australia, with only a few early adopters nationally.
Laser engraving replaces traditional stickers by etching information directly onto the peel. The company says that while the machines represent a high initial investment, over time, the process is more cost-effective than both plastic and compostable stickers. Elleanah from Venus Citrus noted, "In the long run, laser engraving will end up being more cost-effective than stickers. Initially, the laser machines are quite an investment, but they will eventually work out cheaper."
The machines are powered entirely by solar energy. "It's important as a company and as an industry," Elleanah said. "It's worth the investment."
The government of South Australia had originally planned to ban plastic fruit stickers from September 2025, but the ban was postponed due to the high entry costs for laser etching and the increased cost of compostable stickers.
Elleanah explained the purpose of branding: "It's important to know the variety and origin of the fruit." Branding also enables producers to track consumer preferences and provide assurance regarding origin.
The technology is supplied by Natural Branding Australia. The company approached Venus Citrus in 2024 to trial the system, and the project has now been rolled out commercially. "So far we've had a really great response," said Elleanah Aggeletos from the Venus Citrus team. "Everybody's been loving the initiative."
South Australia has a record of introducing environmental measures, including the container deposit scheme and restrictions on single-use plastics. Although the ban on plastic fruit stickers has been delayed, the adoption of laser engraving demonstrates that alternatives are being trialled by growers.
Source: Glam Adelaide