A new report commissioned by the Institute of Grocery Distribution suggests that food producers that minimise packaging around their products, are likely to improve brand loyalty.
As part of the information gathering process a sample of 1000 customers were interviewed. As well as questions on packaging, they were also asked questions on the life of food products and how they consider that this could be extended.
The report acknowledges that the food and grocery industry has no influence over the methods used by householders to dispose of their food and packaging waste though the industry does carry responsibility over packaging levels and to engender an understanding on how food wastes can be minimised.
Areas were identified where the food industry holds some sway including:
- Information provision
- Packaging and product development
- Encouraging more responsible purchasing by customers
Through the survey it was recognised that a key way to minimize food waste is through better food planning by the consumer, supported by 43% of shoppers. On-line shopping is already providing some planning information in that it provides a record of previous shopping trips.
However only 17% of shoppers actually plan all their food shopping.
Following hard on the heels of planning is the provision of resealable packaging as a method of preserving food, referred to by 29% of shoppers in the survey.
Interestingly the survey found that rural shoppers and shoppers at Morrison’s are most likely to consider resealable packaging as a solution.
Extending shelf life was considered by 23% of shoppers to be a further solution to reducing food waste.
The report considers that reducing food waste does not necessarily mean reducing food sales, rather encouraging shoppers to buy more effectively. Shoppers may be inclined to spend a similar amount on food but “trade up” perhaps to more enjoyable products.
Further information
Further information can be obtained from the website of the Institute of Grocery Distribution where copies of the report “Beyond Packaging: Food Waste in the Home” are available for purchase.