Less Food Loss and Waste, Less Packaging Waste

Food loss and waste (FLW) in the global food industry is reaching crisis levels, with significant economic, environmental, and social impacts predicted. Canada alone experiences 11.2 million metric tonnes of avoidable FLW annually, representing a financial value of $49.46 billion. To create a sustainable future for food and the planet, preventing FLW through systemic changes along value chains is crucial. Packaging plays a critical role in preventing FLW by enabling efficient transportation, extending shelf life, ensuring food safety, and providing consumer communication. 

However, overuse of single-use plastics and ineffective management systems have led to packaging pollution. Achieving equilibrium between FLW and packaging usage, optimizing packaging to be fit-for-purpose, and making informed choices regarding packaging materials are essential for sustainability. Addressing these challenges aligns with Canada's commitments to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement.