New Inquiry of the Impact of Food Waste Released by EFRA
A new inquiry has been released by the UK Government’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) committee, focusing on the economic, environmental and social impact of food waste.
Under the inquiry, an EFRA committee will investigate the impact of initiatives intended to reduce food waste and look into the possibility of formulating legislation if required.
The committee will also look at useful measures provided by retailers, the hospitality sector, local councils and consumers.
According to the committee, 85% of food waste comes from homes, with families spending an average of £700 a year on unconsumed food.
Fresh food packaging manufacturer Linpac marketing and innovation director Helene Roberts said: “I believe packaging is one of the most effective technologies invented, due to its protective and preserving qualities.
“For food and drink products, shelf life is a requirement to create low wastage rates between the packer filler and consumer.
“In the context of overall sustainability, it is evident that, contrary to popular misconception, packaging should be regarded as part of the solution, not part of the problem.”
The company further noted that packaging should be improved to reduce food waste.
WRAP has estimated that the UK wastes 110,000t of poultry meat each year.
The EFRA is a committee of the House of Commons in the Parliament in the United Kingdom. The Committee examines the expenditure, administration and policy of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
