The new year is seeing a more profound shift towards sustainability within the food industry. Indeed, the recently held COP28 was heavily focused on food sustainability, with 134 countries pledging to transform food systems for climate resilience.
“The COP28 deal sends a pivotal signal to keep 1.5C alive,” PepsiCo chief sustainability officer Jim Andrew told The Wall Street Journal. “…Sustainable food systems making it onto the table at COP28 was another major breakthrough, along with the recognition that regenerative agriculture must be part of the solution in combating climate change.”
The shift among consumers is notable, as well. A recent survey found that over 50% of consumers prioritize sustainability in their food purchasing decisions. More than that, at least 54% of consumers are willing to switch their diets to contribute to a better, more sustainable world.
Many key industry players are rising to this call, ramping up efforts in waste reduction, creating more sustainable packaging options, reducing carbon emissions, and more. There is a strong indication that 2024 will see a more pronounced adoption of such efforts.
We look into the key 2024 food sustainability trends below.
5 food sustainability trends in 2024
An increased focus on greenwashing
The term ‘greenwashing’ describes the act of falsely portraying products or activities as environmentally friendly. In 2024, this practice is facing increased scrutiny.
Governments and organizations are imposing stricter regulations to ensure that companies’ environmental claims are honest and substantiated.
Net Zero and Scope 3 emissions
The focus on achieving Net Zero emissions — reducing greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible — is intensifying. A significant aspect of this is tackling ‘Scope 3’ emissions, which are indirect emissions from a company’s value chain.
This follows an incoming climate disclosure rule to be decided in April 2024, in which the Securities and Exchange Commission may require companies to disclose their climate-related risks. Such a disclosure will include a company’s Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, as well as their risk management practices.
Food waste management
With food prices on the rise, managing food waste has become a priority. Companies are taking a conscientious approach to ordering and utilizing food, ensuring minimal waste. Any surplus is increasingly being directed to community organizations that aid those in need.
Sustainability in brewing and distilling
Breweries and distilleries are adopting various strategies to reduce their carbon footprint, such as using renewable energy sources, implementing water conservation techniques, and investing in sustainable sourcing of raw materials. Some are also exploring ways to repurpose byproducts, like using spent grains from the brewing process as animal feed or for creating new food products.
Moreover, there is a growing trend towards organic and biodynamic practices in the production of beers, wines, and spirits. These methods not only reduce the environmental impact but also often result in a product that is perceived to have superior taste and quality.
Reusable, plastic-free packaging
In 2024, companies are increasingly adopting packaging solutions that minimize ecological impact. Sustainable packaging strategies include using biodegradable materials, recycling more effectively, and reducing the overall use of packaging.
Innovations in this area range from plant-based bioplastics to recyclable or compostable containers. Recent efforts include offering reusable packaging options for takeaway food services in Canada and Coca-Cola’s launch of 100% rPET bottles.
