Why does one third of the world’s food never make it to the table and how can packaging help?

In many Western countries, throwing away leftovers or discarding food with minor imperfections has become the norm. Yet, with more than 700 million people facing hunger globally and food insecurity rising, this waste is something we can no longer ignore¹. The urgency of the issue is further highlighted by ongoing supply chain disruptions and economic instability.

Food waste campaigner Tristram Stuart has said, “Cutting food waste is a delicious way of saving money, helping to feed the world and protect the planet.” ² He’s right—addressing food waste is critical for people, the planet, and business. It is shocking that 1.3 billion tonnes of food are lost or wasted each year—enough to feed two billion people.¹

In regions like Europe, nearly half of food waste occurs at the consumer level, whereas in developing countries, a significant proportion is lost post-harvest due to inadequate storage and poor packaging. Whether at the farm, in transit, or on supermarket shelves, food waste means wasted resources—water, energy, land, and capital.

The Role of Packaging in Reducing Food Waste

At Mondi, we believe sustainable packaging can play a key role in tackling food waste. Smart packaging solutions help protect food during transport and storage, extending shelf life and preventing spoilage.

Why one-third of food is wasted and how packaging can help | Mondi