Historically food processing has followed a linear trend of “take, make, dispose”. This has obvious downsides to it. From the environmental impact of discarded food and environmentally unfriendly processing practices, to contributing negatively to food security, this linear method of processing is, and never has been, sustainable.
The circular economy emphasizes the principles of “recycle, reuse and repurpose”. In a food processing business, there are a number of places where this can happen…
- Preventing food waste right from the source. Better planning means a more efficient use of the resources and raw materials brought in.
- Implementing practices in the processing that prevent contamination and by default extend the life of the food – meaning more is sold and less is thrown.
- Redirecting food that would have historically just been thrown away to end up on the plate of those in need. There are numerous charities and food banks through which this mechanism can be implemented. One such organization is Food Forward SA.
- Taking the food that would have been thrown away and making it into compost or biogas using anaerobic digestion. These organic waste management solutions can end up making you money, from waste that would have cost to dispose of!
- Those imperfect products, or the by-products that you generate in your process – is there a way to make them into another product that can make money instead of lining a bin?
- Discarded packaging is one of the biggest contributors to our landfills. And they often end up in the environment. Eco-friendly packaging is becoming more and more available. Adopting reusable and eco-friendly packaging will go a long way to reducing the negative environmental impact of your business.
As you read through the points above, you will notice that most of them not only increase sustainability and prevent negative impact on the environment, but will have a positive impact on your bottom line!
Savour Solutions has had sustainability in mind for years. This is part of who we are. Something like this can, however, be quite overwhelming. There are so many places where things may need to be changed. But be encouraged…small steps, one at a time, and before you know it you will look at your business and not only be providing awesome products, but in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner too.