Reducing Food Waste
130 kg
Food waste per inhabitant were generated in the EU (2023).
69 kg
Average household food waste per inhabitant. 53% of the EU total in 2023.
47%
EU food waste generated upwards in the food supply chain
Metal packaging plays a prominent role in tackling one of the biggest issues worldwide: food waste.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, one third of all food produced each year – more than 1.3 billion metric tons – is wasted, representing 3.3 billion metric tons in annual carbon dioxide emissions. Opting for metal food packaging can be a reliable option to fight this trend.
Finding the correct type of packaging is crucial. Food products require complete protection to reduce the risk of damage and waste during storage, handling, and use. Food waste represents not only a loss of the product but also the resources used in the production process: land, raw materials, ingredients, water, energy, and people. Food waste has a significant environmental impact and sustainable packaging, such as metal packaging, is key to reducing food loss.
Metal packaging provides a long shelf life and reduces food waste by protecting fresh products throughout the supply chain. On average, 81% of European consumers responding to a survey believed the food can be a robust and strong packaging type that guarantees food safety. Canned products do not need refrigeration and are e-commerce ready without the need for additional packaging. In addition, canning avoids fresh food spoilage as surplus produce can be canned and kept edible for up to five years.
The fruit and vegetables destined for food cans are packaged, on average, four hours after harvesting, ensuring freshness and nutritional values, often to levels beyond non-canned products.
Metal packaging is light-proof and hermetically sealed, protecting food against a wide range of external contaminations. In a nutshell, metal packaging plays a crucial role in preserving food and reducing waste. With a wide range of benefits, many companies in the food industry have already opted to pack their products in metal cans.