RIVM maps environ­mental impact of the food chain

The environmental impact of food in the Netherlands is moving higher on the agenda. For companies in the food industry, pressure is increasing to gain clearer insight into their footprint. New figures from RIVM show where the greatest impact occurs across the chain. From primary production to processing and packaging, the differences are significant and offer concrete starting points.

Large differences between product groups

Animal-based products have the highest environmental impact per kilogram on average. Meat, cheese and fish score high in greenhouse gas emissions, land use and eutrophication. Meat averages 14.8 kg CO₂ equivalent per kilogram.

Plant-based products generally show a lower impact. Vegetables, grains and legumes score lower across most categories. There are exceptions. Nuts and seeds have high water use, averaging 1,131.6 litres per kilogram. Within product groups, differences are substantial. Emissions within meat range from 4 kg CO₂ equivalent for chicken to 33 kg for beef.

Primary production is the main driver

Most of the environmental impact occurs during primary production. For many product groups, this is the most significant phase in the chain. Its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions ranges between 18 and 87 percent.

In animal-based products, this is largely driven by methane emissions and feed production. In plant-based products, growing conditions and energy use play a key role. After primary production, electricity use and processing are the main contributors. Storage, distribution and retail have a relatively smaller share in the overall impact.

Levers for the food chain

The data points to clear directions for making the sector more sustainable. The greatest gains can be achieved in primary production. More efficient processing and lower energy use can also reduce impact. Product assortment plays a role as well. Shifting towards products with a lower environmental footprint can support reduction efforts.

Packaging contributes less, but still matters. In beverages especially, material choice can make a difference. Reusable packaging has a lower impact compared to single-use options.