Food packaging primarily protects what we eat, but with growing environmental concerns, consumers want greener solutions. Every part of packaging plays a role in keeping food safe while minimizing waste. Discussions about materials like paper-based and monomaterial options are vital as the industry navigates sustainability challenges.
Food waste is a pressing issue, threatening the UN’s goal to reduce waste by half by 2030. A report by Avery Dennison predicts that the global cost of food waste will reach over $540 billion by 2026. Yet, only 30 countries made commitments at COP 30 to address food loss and waste. This underscores the need for coordinated global action.
Experts from Elopak and Stora Enso highlight packaging innovations that can help. Julian Krais from Stora Enso emphasizes that packaging must safely protect food first. Emilie Olderskog from Elopak believes that functionality and sustainability go hand in hand. If a package fails to protect the product, any sustainability benefits from the material are lost.
Increasing product shelf life is one clear strategy to cut food waste, according to Olderskog. Advanced filling machines can help extend freshness, reducing returns and minimizing waste at retail. A longer shelf life helps retailers sell products before they expire, which is critical for managing waste.
Krais points out that food-safe materials and effective barriers are essential for reducing waste. Stora Enso uses fresh fibers in their packaging, providing strong protection against spoilage. For instance, their Trayforma product ensures items stay fresh during storage and transport.
Elopak also focuses on hygiene to combat food waste. Their Ultra Clean Extended machines aim to eliminate contamination during packaging, extending the product’s shelf life. Their Pure-Pak carton is designed to protect dairy products from light and microbe contamination, crucial for reducing waste.
Lightweighting packaging is a promising approach. Both experts agree that reducing the weight of materials while maintaining safety can balance food protection and environmental impact. Stora Enso’s lightweight designs cut down on raw material use and transport emissions, supporting sustainability goals.
As we continue to innovate, it’s clear that packaging can play a critical role in our food system. By prioritizing safety and sustainability, the industry can help meet both consumer demands and environmental needs.
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Stora Enso, Elopak, Food Packaging, Food Waste, Fiber-Based
