In the ongoing battle against food waste, the packaging industry is emerging as a crucial player. Recent developments in packaging technology have shown promise in extending the freshness and shelf life of food products, ultimately reducing food waste. Food manufacturers are increasingly turning to innovative packaging solutions to address this global issue.
Susan Hansen, a global strategist covering food and agricultural supply chains for Rabobank, has highlighted the role packaging plays in reducing food waste. “We’re throwing away so much food, and part of the reason is because the packaging isn’t right,” she explains.
While efforts have focused on reducing single-use plastic, the food industry has witnessed notable changes in packaging practices, particularly in fresh food categories. Dividable packaging, designed for convenience and waste reduction, is gaining prominence in stores. Additionally, resealable packaging is becoming the norm, especially for cheese products.
Modified-atmosphere packaging, once considered cutting-edge, is now commonly used for meat products. This technique involves altering the mix of air sealed in the packaging to extend the product’s shelf life.
Innovation in packaging technology is also on the rise. Intelligent packaging solutions are being developed to monitor factors like freshness and shelf life. Time-temperature sensors provide consumers with real-time information about a product’s freshness. For instance, X5 Retail Group, one of Russia’s largest food retailers, has unveiled labels developed in collaboration with Evigence Sensors to use on ready meals. These labels change colour to indicate freshness and shelf-life status, giving consumers greater confidence in the products they purchase.
BlakBear, a UK-based startup, offers freshness sensors and cloud-based analytics to improve quality control and reduce food waste. By measuring gases emitted from proteins inside packaging, BlakBear’s technology provides valuable insights into food freshness and shelf life.
Meanwhile, SoluBlue, another UK-based startup, has developed biodegradable and home compostable packaging that extends the shelf life of fresh food by absorbing excess moisture. This innovative packaging reduces both food and plastic waste, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic packaging.
HKScan, a Finland-based meat processor, has transitioned to vacuum packaging, which has extended the shelf life of minced meat by seven days. The company is exploring the use of intelligent inks or labels that change colour to indicate a product’s condition.
Dole Food Co., a major fruit and vegetable supplier, is actively seeking ways to extend the natural shelf life of its products, exploring technologies like natural coatings.
While these packaging innovations are still in their early stages, they hold the potential to make a significant impact in the fight against food waste. Challenges such as cost, commercialization, and consumer education remain, but the industry is optimistic about the positive changes that packaging technology can bring to reduce waste along the supply chain.