Celebrating International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste: Our Contribution to the Solution

Author Dr. Bettina Plaumann

As we approach International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day on September 29, it is crucial to reflect on the urgency of addressing a global challenge that affects us all. It is estimated that nearly one third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted each year – a problem with far-reaching economic, environmental, and social impacts.

Packaging plays a crucial role in the fight against food loss. Packaging preserves and protects food and the resources associated with it throughout the supply chain, from production to consumers’ shelves and refrigerators. Optimizing a product’s shelf life is a top priority for our customers, and the right packaging keeps food fresher for longer by preventing contact with gases and moisture through its barrier properties.

Extending the shelf life of food

Our EVAL™ EVOH, PLANTIC™, and EXCEVAL™ barrier materials allow to significantly extend the shelf life of packaged food. While they are not the sole means of solving this complex problem, they are powerful tools that help prevent food spoilage and loss during storage and distribution, ultimately helping to contribute to combat food waste.

It is important to recognize the delicate balance we need to strike in tackling food loss and waste, taking into account the environmental impact of packaging. In today’s world, consumers are increasingly making environmentally conscious choices about the products they buy. Packaging needs to be consistent with sustainability goals on the one hand, but also practical, durable, and visually appealing to the consumer on the other.

Our commitment to a sustainable future

As we continue on our journey to address food loss and waste through barrier materials such as EVAL™ EVOH, PLANTIC™, and EXCEVAL™, we remain committed to addressing the environmental concerns associated with packaging. Our goal is to provide packaging solutions that strike the right balance between preserving food and minimizing its impact on the planet and its people.

Packaging for fresh meat
Packaging for dry food

”Let’s work together, innovate, and adopt sustainable practices to make a significant contribution to reducing food loss and waste. Together, we can build a future where food is valued, shared, and enjoyed to the fullest, while preserving our planet’s resources.”

Didier Houssier, Global Market Development Director EVAL