March 2024 witnessed dynamic shifts and intriguing trends in the food and recycling industries, and we've compiled a list of the ten most read articles for you. These range from significant changes in recycling legislation and their impact on food packaging, to Unilever's strategic shift. Focus is given to the challenges in the Belgian food sector, the growing digitization among top brands, and the evolution in consumer preferences and sustainability initiatives.
March 4 | Developments in legislation are posing huge challenges for the food industry, but also offer unique opportunities. Scientists from Wageningen Food & Biobased Research have been examining the complex interplay between circular economy and food safety, exploring paths to innovation in food packaging.
March 4 | Developments in the food packaging industry are rapidly approaching. See how experts Rob Verhagen from OPACKGROUP, Jan Zwaan from Espera, and Eelco van Schaik from Repak are approaching the changing legislation and challenges in the industry. Examine the impact of recyclability, shifting European standards, and the strategies of companies adapting to this new reality. How does packaging become future-proof?
March 4 | Maarten Schutyser of Wageningen University & Research's research into more efficient drying processes promises significant energy savings and the development of new, sustainable technologies. Familiarize yourself with his vision on 'ELEC-ficiency' and his pursuit of a more sustainable food chain.
March 6 | Data from the Week Without Meat Foundation reveals that 63% of Dutch people are resisting the increasing pressure to consume less meat. This illustrates a growing divide in public opinion on sustainable food. Read how this resistance affects the future of food sustainability.
March 7 | The European Parliament and Council recently reached a preliminary agreement on new regulations for packaging materials. These rules are designed to reduce the amount of packaging and increase recycling, while also enhancing safety and promoting the circular economy.
March 28 | The Belgian food sector, generating a turnover of a staggering 81 billion euros, is showing a worrying trend: a continuous decline in sales volumes. This raises major questions about the future of this sector. Fevia shares the true challenges: high costs, an overly complex tax system, and a growing number of vacancies. Is this a sign for the entire European food industry?
March 4 | Those curious about what a baboon or a ring-tailed lemur eats can now visit the new Animal Kitchen at DierenPark Amersfoort. This unique project offers a special insight into food provision, emphasizing efficiency, animal welfare, and education. D.I. Koeltechniek was asked to install the refrigeration and freezing systems for the new kitchen.
March 18 | The plastic sorting and recycling industry is on edge due to a looming crisis threatening both our climate goals and the production of recycled plastic. A challenge where low demand for recyclate and strong competition from Asia and America play a major role. The Association of Waste Companies urgently calls on the government.
March 28 | Digitization lays the foundation for success at Tony's Chocolonely, FrieslandCampina, and Herman Jansen Beverages. Curious about how these food giants are using innovation and technology to stay ahead? The '2024 Food and Beverage Sector Trend Report' by Aptean reveals how digitization drives business growth.
March 19 | Unilever announced a significant change to its business structure in March. This change involves spinning off its ice cream division (including top brands like Wall's, Magnum, and Ben & Jerry's) and introducing a comprehensive productivity program. These steps are part of the 'Growth Action Plan' (GAP), aimed at sharpening business focus and fostering sustainable growth.
Source: Vakblad Voedingsindustrie 2024