Background

FoodDrinkEurope position: Food Contact Materials

Published: 12/01/2023

Food packaging plays an active role in reducing food waste

From plastic foils to canned goods, paper and the multilayer cartons of beverages, food and drink packaging keeps our food safe and nutritious. Packaging protects our food from air, light, dirt, pathogenic microorganisms, and other elements to prevent undesirable changes to the food’s safety, nutrient composition, and quality.

Food packaging is vital for the transition towards more sustainable food systems

The food and drink industry is reducing packaging waste by investing in innovative solutions and new materials; improving packaging recyclability; and increasing the use of recycled materials. True packaging circularity will mean ensuring packaging functionality and food safety, without trade-offs in food loss and waste prevention, all while maintaining food contact material safety.