Packaging plays a crucial role in improving the sustainability of the food system.
Stora Enso, a leader in renewable packaging solutions, has made significant strides by offering fiber-based alternatives that reduce reliance on fossil materials. However, the effectiveness of these solutions depends on their safety and reliability. Packaging must be safe and effective to prevent food waste, which can undermine sustainability efforts. This raises an essential question: How can we ensure that food packaging materials are produced safely and sustainably?
One-third of the food produced globally is lost or wasted, accounting for 8% of annual global emissions. Stora Enso addresses this issue by offering innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. Their advanced barrier materials are technically recyclable and protect sensitive food products, while lightweight cardboard reduces the use of raw materials and associated emissions.
To maximize its contribution to the sustainability of the food system, Stora Enso focuses on the safety of its renewable materials. These materials are designed to be:
- Safe for their intended use
- Non-hazardous to human health when used correctly
- Non-reactive, so they do not alter or contaminate the packaging contents
Stora Enso adheres to strict safety standards, implementing quality assurance measures such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and food safety management systems certified by international standards like ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000.
Safety and sustainability are mutually reinforcing goals. Effective packaging preserves food from spoilage and contamination, thus reducing waste. Stora Enso's fiber-based materials maintain freshness and protect against contaminants, while smart designs, such as resealable packaging, further minimize consumer waste. Reducing food waste decreases emissions associated with overproduction, packaging, and transportation.
Stora Enso's expertise in renewable materials and innovative design ensures that food packaging projects are safe, sustainable, and effective in reducing waste. Their latest guide, "Sustainable Safety: How Food Carton Packaging Protects Consumers and Reduces Food Waste" , provides more details on their food safety systems.
Stora Enso is a global leader in providing renewable products for packaging, biomaterials, and wood construction, and one of the world's largest private forest owners. With approximately 20,000 employees and sales reaching €9.4 billion in 2023, Stora Enso believes that everything made today from fossil materials can be made from a tree tomorrow.
