As the world’s population continues to grow, millions of people struggle every day to find food. However, 250 million tons of food waste were generated in the European Union in 2021, according to Eurostat 2022 data. In this context, manufacturers are investing in innovation in order to develop new types of packaging with a carbon footprint. long shelf life.
Food brick, one solution to help reduce waste
Food cans play an important role in improving the resilience of food systems globally, in order to combat the reduction of food waste. Consists of 75% carton (FSC ™ Certified) On average, it allows food to be kept longer, without the need for refrigeration or preservatives, while preserving its nutritional and taste properties, thanks to sterilization technology. Including too 20% plastic And 5% aluminiumCartons contain several layers, each of which has a specific function that ensures the food safety of the products it contains. To advance the approach of environmental responsibility, manufacturers are now focusing their research and development efforts on reducing the use of plastic and aluminum, while innovating in the functionality of paper.
Safe, sustainable and resilient food systems require processing and packaging solutions that can ensure high standards of shelf life of food to combat waste and ensure that food is safely accessible to consumers. Thus, the brick making sector plays a major role in the food chain, which in turn is fundamental to the French economy.
Focus on recycling to reduce your carbon footprint, and manufacturers won’t be able to do it alone
Whether it is cardboard, polymers, aluminum or glass, the production of various packaging materials has an impact on the environment. To reduce the carbon footprint of the food system, the goal is to use only reusable or recyclable materials. The need to protect the nutritional quality and taste of food must be accompanied by tangible benefits in terms of environmental sustainability.
Many manufacturers and producers are making strides in innovation in an effort to make packaging recycling easier. But this is not enough to create a circular economy with a robust food system that has a low carbon footprint. In order to increase recycling rates, it is essential to have adequate infrastructure in place, and to set collection targets to support recycling efforts.
It is therefore important that manufacturers and producers engage in close collaboration with governments, industrial partners and consumers – both in France and at EU level – to ensure that collection and recycling programs cover the full range of food cans available.
The European carton industry has committed to at least an investigation 70% recycling in the EU by 2030. Significant investments support this goal: in addition to the 200 million euros already invested, 120 million euros planned by 2027 To enhance the ability to collect and recycle all components of food cans.
Food systems become more sustainable and resilient when food packaging manufacturers consider each stage of the packaging life cycle. This requires close and lasting partnerships, and investments in innovation in packaging and recycling systems that increase recycling rates.
By encouraging collaboration across our ecosystem of stakeholders, we can achieve our most pressing greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals and support innovation around renewable and recyclable packaging options. Ultimately, this will help keep food fresh, reduce waste, and improve supply chain efficiency, which will support everyone’s access to safe and affordable food.
The Tribune is written by Damien Chabal, Commercial Director of Tetra Pak for France with over 15 years of experience in the food packaging industry.
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