Towards a greener future in sustainable food production

November 16, 2024

The food industry faces growing pressure to meet the rising demand for food while demanding sustainable food production. From carbon emissions and plastic waste to heavy water use, food production affects the planet in many ways. With agriculture using 70% of the world’s freshwater and one-third of food going to waste, it’s clear that changes are needed.

Solutions like sustainable sourcing, renewable energy, and smart technologies can help create a better balance between production and environmental care. By adopting sustainable practices, the food industry can ensure a healthier future for both people and the planet.

---

Food production is a multifaceted process involving agriculture, intricate supply chains, and resource-intensive manufacturing to deliver finished goods to consumers. The food manufacturing industry plays a vital role in supplying the food consumed by people every day. However, as the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for food, presenting the industry with mounting challenges in achieving sustainable food production. Balancing production with environmental responsibility has become increasingly important to ensure long-term resource availability and reduce ecological harm.

Sustainable practices are now more crucial than ever to protect the environment and preserve resources for future generations. According to data released by the World Food Programme (WFP) in 2021: “Around one-third of food produced for human consumption is either lost or wasted, amounting to a financial loss of about US$ 1 trillion annually. food loss and waste are prevalent in a world where enough food is produced to feed the world’s 7 billion people, yet 811 million people still go to bed hungry each night.”

Environmental impacts of food manufacturing

1. Increases Global Emissions- The food industry is a major source of carbon emissions, encompassing every stage from farming and transportation to energy use in grocery stores. In 2021, agriculture contributed 10% of the U.S.’s total emissions, with livestock—particularly methane-emitting cows—and rice farming identified as key drivers, according to the EPA.  The environmental impact extends beyond production; the EU reports that transporting fruits and vegetables releases twice the greenhouse gases compared to their cultivation. Retail operations further contribute, as supermarkets depend on refrigeration systems that use hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to preserve food.
   
2. Generates Significant Plastic Waste- Food packaging accounts for more than a third of the global packaging market, contributing heavily to plastic waste. While plastic helps protect food from contamination and improves its presentation, most packaging is designed for single use. Items like polystyrene plates and cling film are non-recyclable, meaning much of this packaging ends up as waste instead of being reused in the economy.
   
3. Wastes Large Amounts of Water– The agricultural sector accounts for approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater use for irrigation, livestock maintenance, and food processing. The Food and Agriculture Organization warns that as the global population grows, this demand will rise, further straining already limited freshwater resources. Current water usage in the food industry is unsustainable, especially as climate change exacerbates water scarcity, disproportionately impacting warmer regions and developing countries. Future shortages could disrupt food prices and availability, potentially leading to regional conflicts.
   

Techniques or methods to adopt for sustainable food production and manufacturing

1. Food waste reduction-  Reducing waste in food manufacturing is essential for maintaining sustainability, as about one-third of food produced globally for human consumption is wasted each year, as per the Food and Agriculture Organization. To tackle this issue, manufacturers can begin by conducting a waste audit to identify areas of waste generation. Implementing lean manufacturing practices helps eliminate inefficiencies such as overproduction and excess inventory, leading to substantial waste and cost reductions. Shivam Gupta, Manager at Tirupati Food Industries Pvt Ltd says that there is no waste in our company, “Food that isn’t safe for people to eat is often used as animal feed, and if it’s not suitable for that either, it’s used for biodegradation.”
   
2. Sustainable sourcing for food processing-  Sustainable sourcing of raw materials in food processing enhances environmental, social, and economic benefits. By choosing suppliers that use regenerative agriculture, food processors can lower greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources. This approach also promotes fair labor practices and supports local communities.
   
3. Using renewable energy sources-  Utilizing renewable energy sources is important to reduce carbon footprints by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and helping to mitigate climate change. Generating energy on-site increases energy security by reducing reliance on external sources, reducing cost, and ensuring a more stable and resilient energy supply for food manufacturing operations.
   
4. Sustainable Packaging- Food packaging is a significant source of waste and pollution, with over 78 million metric tons of plastic produced annually, of which only 14% is recycled. Most plastic comes from non-renewable resources and ends up in landfills. In response, many manufacturers are opting for wood- and paper-based alternatives, which are biodegradable and recyclable, provided they come from sustainably managed forests. Mr Gupta also added that, “Sustainable packaging can be pricey, but customers are willing to pay more for trendy food products. However, they’re less inclined to pay extra for staple food items. We offer sustainable packaging when buyers request it.“

Usage of innovative technology for sustainability

Incorporating innovative technology is essential for dealing with the challenges of sustainability. The following technologies can be used for this purpose.

1. Internet of Things (IoT) devices– This technology enables the collection of real-time data in manufacturing environments. Smart manufacturing applications can track and analyze energy and water usage, connecting these metrics to specific recipes and processes, which will help reduce energy and water consumption throughout the process.
   
2. Data analytics- Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms can analyze extensive datasets, enabling them to forecast crop yields and identify potential disruptions in the food supply chain caused by disease outbreaks. By leveraging these technologies, food manufacturers can make informed decisions that enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural operations.
   
3. Supply Chain Optimization– By tracking sustainability metrics from vendors and co-manufacturers, companies can improve their reporting capabilities. This approach enables them to identify and concentrate on initiatives that have a meaningful impact on their sustainability goals and overall supply chain performance.

Achieving sustainable food production in the food industry is essential to meet growing global demands while minimizing environmental impact. Addressing challenges such as carbon emissions, plastic waste, and water scarcity requires a holistic approach—integrating sustainable sourcing, waste reduction, renewable energy use, and advanced technologies.

By embracing eco-friendly practices across production and supply chains, the industry can not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to environmental preservation and social well-being.