Sustainable Food Packaging
Packaging keeps food products safe and damage-free, and while it also ensures a long shelf life, many types of packaging have a detrimental environmental impact. Together with its chain partners, Wageningen University & Research has been developing sustainable and safe alternatives for each specific situation. In addition to rethinking the materials and the design of the packaging, they also consider the recycling and composting options, as well as the technology for extending the foods’ shelf life.
Together with the food industry, packaging producers and waste collectors, we are guiding the packaging designs toward sustainability through research on the following topics:
- Sustainable packaging made from new, bio-based raw materials as an alternative to plastic (or other fossil fuel-based) packaging materials, but with the same functional properties.
- Packaging that can be optimally recycled or composted due to its design and material.
- Mapping the quality of recycled (plastic) packaging material, including the options for using this recyclate.
- The design of smarter logistics chains, reducing the need for packaging materials while minimising food loss.
- Developing sustainable, energy-efficient technologies that extend the shelf life of products, to reduce food waste.
The strength of research at Wageningen University & Research is the multidisciplinary approach in the fields of food technology, shelf life, packaging and microbiology. With this approach we work on feasible, sustainable packaging solutions, with as little loss of food as possible.
Curious how we can investigate with you what the most suitable solution for your organization could be? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Interested to create a strategic roadmap towards more sustainable food packaging?
For packaging producers: renewable food packaging materials
Consumers and brand owners require sustainable alternatives to existing packaging. Together with and for producers of plastic, paper, cardboard, metal, and glass packaging, Wageningen Food & Biobased Research is developing new, “renewable” packaging materials with exactly the requested functional properties. With our technologies we offer support during the entire production process: from the materials and product development of the packaging itself to improved end-of-life options such as bio-degradability and recyclability, where we give priority to the packaged product and optimal protection for it with attention to sustainability.
For the food industry: sustainable packaging solutions
Finding sustainable packaging for fresh and perishable food is a major challenge. Which packaging material ensures that products remain shelf-stable and safe while also offering good end-of-life options and affordability? Wageningen University & Research supports companies in the transition from plastic to alternative packaging concepts by making the above-mentioned challenges quantifiable. This allows you to decide which packaging is the most suitable for all of the aspects that are important for your product and your company.