Ways the Food and Drink Sector Can Help Fight Global Food Waste

According to a report from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, approximately 1.3 billion tons of food around the world is lost or wasted every year.

The U.S. Food Waste Reduction Alliance defines food waste as “any liquid or solid food substance which is discarded, or intended or required to be discarded.” To date, the amount of global food waste costs around $2.6 trillion annually, more than enough to feed the 815 million people in the world who are suffering from chronic undernourishment.

Food and beverage manufacturers can help resolve the global issue of food waste by investing in anti-waste equipment. At Volumetric Technologies, we supply dispensing nozzles, piston fillers, and depositors designed for zero drips and spills.

By taking steps to minimize product waste, F&B producers can reduce costs, improve productivity, and promote sustainability at all levels of the supply chain. Here are three ways to reduce food waste in the production line.

1. Select the right packaging

Food spoilage is one of the main causes of food waste. It may occur before products reach retail stores and after consumers purchase them.

There are innovative packaging solutions designed to keep food fresh and protected during transport and sales. For instance, today’s manufacturers are setting silver nanoparticles into plastic storage bottles and using microperforated pouches to prolong the product’s shelf life and prevent damage during production. Individually sealed compartments and resealable packaging also help keep products in excellent condition.

2. Invest in state-of-the-art equipment

Spillage and product rejects all contribute to large amounts of food waste. Sloppy filling can also result in contaminated and low-quality products that are likely to be scrapped and discarded.

Investing in reliable filling machines and dispensing nozzles can boost the efficiency and precision of production lines. High-performance equipment not only minimizes product spills and losses, but also helps food processing firms increase yields and profits.

3. Educate consumers

Research shows that 44% of food waste takes place at the consumer level.

There are several ways food manufacturers can help consumers reduce their individual impact. Waste reduction practices and shelf life details should be printed clearly on the packaging. Include easy-to-read freezing, preparation, storage, and defrosting instructions to prevent early spoilage. Other practical tips such as preserving leftovers and ideal storage temperatures should also be indicated.

Using standardized date labels is another way to educate customers. Phrases such as “best before”, “sell by”, “expires on”, and “use by” can cause confusion and result in unnecessary wastage. Standardized date labels, on the other hand, specifies whether the date indicates spoilage or simply that the product has surpassed the period of peak quality.

Your one-stop source for superior filling equipment 

Taking steps to reduce food waste not only makes your business more sustainable, but also boosts revenue and builds shareholders’ and customers’ confidence.

Volumetric Technologies has over 25 years of experience providing cutting-edge filling machines, conveyors, transfer pumps, and more for food and beverage companies. Designed for precision and durability, our machines can be customized according to your unique business needs.

Choose from anti-waste filling machines that are built to last.