Reflections on food packaging and sustainability

Abstract

Food packaging has undoubted importance in modern life for making products available to the population. However, the current consumption routine together with new technologies has provided an increase in waste production. The materials that make up the packaging can remain in the environment for a long time. As the amount of packaging consumed increases, there is a consequent increase in the generation of waste and, finally, companies are under pressure to assume responsibility for the entire life cycle of the products. In this context, it is clear that consumers have changed eating habits and purchasing decisions, prioritizing aspects of a healthier life and consequently promoting changes in the packaging market. One way to contribute to reducing the generation of waste is to know the material that makes up the packaging and try to choose those that cause less environmental impact. Packaging generates environmental impacts and is closely linked to food waste and waste generation, and those responsible for massive changes are consumers and their attitudes towards this issue. Environmental issues generate great influence on consumer behavior, which is interesting for companies and can become a differentiator. However, in order to change, the consumer needs to recognize the information and feel motivated to take positive actions, seeing the impact generated by them.