Around one-third of all food produced globally never gets eaten1 – while 10% of the population goes hungry2. Food waste is not only a moral issue, but also an environmental one, linked to an estimated 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions3. Packaging alone can’t solve the problem, but when designed well, it can make a big difference.
Packaging as prevention
Packaging can make a big difference in reducing food waste. Aseptic packaging is one of the most effective examples. It prevents microorganisms from entering the product during and after filling, which keeps products safe for longer.
Key benefits of aseptic packaging include:
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Longer shelf life without refrigeration
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Safe transport over long distances
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Protection from contamination and spoilage
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Wider food access in regions lacking cold chains
Ambient distribution can help reduce food waste – especially in areas that lack cold chain and storage infrastructure.
Smarter design makes every drop count
Another way packaging can reduce food waste is through smarter design. Flexible, squeezable formats make it easy for consumers to get out every last drop, without extra effort. This not only prevents food from being thrown away with the package, but also gives consumers better value and a more convenient experience.
Why design makes the difference
Packaging is essential in protecting food and reducing waste. But not all designs work equally well. Some formats can unintentionally create unnecessary waste if they are difficult to empty, oversized, or use more material than needed.
Lighter formats, lower impact
Beyond food waste, packaging design can reduce environmental impact in several ways. Lightweight formats require fewer raw materials and make transport more efficient, lowering emissions. Flexible packages also create less waste once emptied, taking up less space and making disposal easier.
Towards less waste and more value
Food waste is a global challenge with serious social and environmental consequences. While packaging alone cannot solve it, smart design can play an important role – protecting food, reducing waste and using fewer resources.
By rethinking how packaging is made and used, the food industry has an opportunity to deliver more value for consumers, producers and the planet.
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Difficult-to-empty formats leave 3–11% of food behind in the package
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Oversized packs lead to overbuying and uneaten food being thrown away
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Bulky designs require more raw materials and make distribution less efficient
By focusing on smarter, right-sized designs that are easy to empty, packaging can further strengthen its role in fighting food waste.
1 World Resources Institute - https://www.wri.org/insights/how-much-food-does-the-world-waste#:~:text=Around%20one%2Dthird%20of%20all,spot%20in%20global%20food%20systems
2 World Health Organisation – Food safety
