Restaurants, manufacturers, and consumers all share some of the blame when it comes to food waste. However, our team knows of a few ways manufacturers and consumers can band together to drive positive change. From improved efficiency to more informative packaging, you can explore some great options to reduce food waste when you check out the tips below.

The real cost of food waste

According to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, 44% of food waste occurs at the consumer level. This equates to $218 billion per year that the U.S. spends on food that is never eaten. Given the costs and far-reaching social impact, too, this is a very problematic inefficiency.

Among many potential approaches to the problem, consumer education is a key component. However, as most manufacturers know, success often hinges on providing simplified solutions and removing hurdles.

This is where your packaging can play a key role. As part of the solution to the problem, you can also realize other opportunities for your business.

Using packaging design to help reduce food waste

Your packaging design can play a big role in improving the world around us. In this case, not only could it help reduce food waste, but, depending on the options you choose, it could reduce your manufacturing costs and yield invaluable amounts of good will with consumers.

Here are three key tips we recommend for your approach.

1. Consider portion size

When you consider portion size, you can take a few different angles to please consumers and reduce food waste.

First, your product can fit consumer lifestyles better when offered in individual or portioned servings. You can group these together in a larger package, but your packaging can give consumers just what they need to prepare for that meal.

Second, keep in mind that families and smaller households both need portion control, but their needs are different. When your packaging considers the needs of smaller households, you can reach that segment better and prevent food waste.

2. Use resealable packages

By design, manufacturers are offering resealable packages as a way to provide more than one portion. This helps consumers by letting them take advantage of cost efficiencies. It can also cut down excess packaging.

However, many food and beverage manufacturers are underutilizing resealable packages. Whether using a tub with a lid, a flexible pouch with a zipper, a bottle with a screw cap, or something else, your packaging can preserve quality and freshness and reduce waste.

3. Label containers clearly

Lastly, you can make an incredible difference just by using some best practices with labeling. It's a simple solution, but "best by" dates and expiration dates should be well-placed and printed clearly. When you make these dates straightforward, you will cut down on consumer uncertainty, frustration, and wasted food.

Reduce food waste and be part of the solution

With the right packaging and helpful consultation from specialists like ours, you can give consumers what they want. We look forward to helping you elevate your position as a socially responsible company on the cutting edge of consumer demand.

Contact MJS Packaging to get a solution tailored for your business.