Smarter Packaging, Extending Food Shelf Life
Food waste does not always happen because we buy too much or forget what is in the refrigerator. Sometimes, the way food is packaged can also influence whether it gets eaten or ends up in the bin.
A scientific study by Fredrik Wikström, Helén Williams, Jakob Trischler and Zane Rowe explores how different packaging functions can affect household food waste. The researchers point out that the reasons why food is wasted can differ significantly between products, meaning that packaging solutions should also be adapted to specific foods and consumer needs.
One of the key findings is that smaller package sizes and better information about food safety and storage could have significant potential to reduce food waste. This is particularly relevant for products that are only partially consumed. If the remaining food is difficult to store or protect after opening, it may deteriorate before it can be eaten.
This suggests that packaging is about much more than simply containing and protecting food. The right packaging can help extend shelf life, make food easier to store after opening and provide consumers with information that supports better decisions.
However, there is no single packaging solution that works for every product. The study emphasises the importance of understanding both the characteristics of the food and the habits and needs of consumers. For example, packaging designed for sliced ham may need to consider portion size, reclosability and protection after opening.
At the same time, the authors highlight an important challenge: improving packaging can increase its environmental impact and cost. For this reason, packaging improvements should be considered together with the amount of food they can actually help save. The goal is not simply more packaging, but better packaging that prevents more food from being wasted.
Preventing food waste therefore requires looking at the entire journey of food — from production and packaging to storage and consumption at home.
Want to learn more? The scientific paper The Importance of Packaging Functions for Food Waste of Different Products in Households provides a deeper look at the relationship between packaging, consumer behaviour and food waste, as well as the opportunities and challenges for developing better packaging solutions.
The paper is open access and can be read and downloaded online.