Food waste is a significant challenge throughout the food and beverage industry supply chain. The United Nations estimates that approximately 13% of globally produced food is lost between harvest and retail, with an additional 17% wasted in households, food service, and retail outlets.
According to a UN spokesperson, the impact of food loss and waste on sustainability is profound. When food is wasted, precious resources such as water, land, energy, labor, and capital are also wasted. Additionally, the disposal of food waste in landfills contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately fueling climate change. This issue not only affects food security and availability but also drives up the cost of food.
The World Food Programme estimates the annual cost of food loss and waste to be around one trillion USD, putting a considerable strain on the global economy. As a result, manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing the reduction of food waste in their factories to both save the planet and save money.
Leading food manufacturers are taking proactive measures to address food waste across their operations. Mondelēz International, for example, has been actively working to reduce food waste for several years and is implementing various strategies to tackle the issue holistically.
Similarly, The Kraft Heinz Company is approaching food waste reduction comprehensively across all divisions. The company focuses on waste prevention, reduction, repurposing, and recycling, diverting a significant portion of solid waste from manufacturing facilities for beneficial reuse.
One promising solution involves utilizing food waste for animal feed, following the principles of the circular economy. By repurposing byproducts from the production process into animal feed, companies can reduce disposal costs and support environmentally friendly practices.
Looking ahead, food manufacturers are setting ambitious targets to further reduce food waste in their factories. By aligning with long-term business strategies and emphasizing waste elimination, these companies are positioning themselves for a more sustainable future.
Collaboration and innovation are essential in addressing the industry-wide challenge of food waste. By working together and sharing best practices, food manufacturers can not only mitigate the impact of climate change but also drive cost savings and operational efficiencies.
Overall, the focus on reducing food waste in factories is an ongoing priority for the food and beverage industry. Through proactive measures, innovative solutions, and a commitment to sustainability, companies are paving the way for a more efficient and environmentally conscious future.
