Kerry drives sustainable foodservice by supporting recyclable packaging
By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish in the oceans, according to Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Taste and nutrition solutions provider Kerry is taking a stand against the global plastic crisis and unsustainable food production practices, highlighting the urgent challenges facing the foodservice industry, including food waste, single-use plastics, and the environmental impact of traditional meat and dairy products.
Simon Hague, General Manager of Foodservice Chains for Kerry Southeast Asia, shared insights into the company's ambitious sustainability targets aimed at addressing these pressing environmental issues by 2030.
"Our consumers want more; they demand products that make a social impact, are natural, and come from trusted sources," Hague explained, outlining the shift in consumer preferences towards sustainability and ethical consumption.
Central to Kerry's strategy is the reduction of food waste and the promotion of meat and dairy-free alternatives as part of a broader move towards sustainable nutrition. This approach is not only in response to consumer demand but also aligns with global environmental goals.
"Reducing meat and increasing dairy-free options are key to our sustainability strategy," Hague stated, indicating a significant pivot in the company’s product development philosophy.
The conversation on food packaging and its environmental repercussions took a central stage. With global recycling rates lingering around 9% and plastic use expected to triple by 2060 according to OECD projections, Hague underscored the critical need for action.
Kerry is responding with initiatives designed to reduce the ecological footprint of packaging, aiming to divert 96% of food waste from landfill globally, a goal that has been achieved in many of their Asian factories.
Highlighting the company's achievements, Hague shared, "In 2023, 96% of our food waste was diverted from landfill globally, with many of our factories in Asia hitting the 100% mark."
This accomplishment is part of a broader effort that saw a global reduction of 48% in Kerry's scope one and two emissions since 2017, earning them a spot in the top 10 list at the World Benchmarking Alliance for their work in sustainability.
"For us, sustainability transcends the planet; it encompasses our people and the communities we operate in. It's about fostering cultural change and altering habits," he stated, illustrating Kerry's commitment to a comprehensive sustainability strategy that aligns with their Beyond the Horizon vision.
