Food waste is falling but more must be done

Following last week’s report from WRAP, which states that the level of avoidable food waste in UK households has fallen by 21% during the last five years, The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) got in touch to argue that more must be done:

Whilst the FDF applauds the news, WRAP’s new report reveals that the average UK household still throws away the equivalent of six meals every week, at a cost of almost £60 per month, with much of this food going straight from the refrigerator to the rubbish bin.

To help consumers throw away less food, FDF members have made significant innovations around packaging design. They are also providing improved information about product storage and use, while FDF has collaborated in developing consumer awareness campaigns such as Fresher for Longer.

WRAP’s report suggests that it could be possible to halve avoidable household food waste by 2025. Given the financial and environmental benefits this would bring, FDF joins WRAP’s call for a major combined effort between retailers, brands, governments and consumers.

Andrew Kuyk, FDF’s Sustainability Director, comments, “We are delighted to hear the good news that UK households are heeding the message on food waste. Throwing away uneaten food is an avoidable and expensive form of waste, for the environment and for consumers themselves.

“As manufacturers, we want our products to be used and enjoyed. We are strong supporters of WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste campaign and helped develop its Fresher for Longer initiative. We are working hard with retailers and other supply chain partners to do what we can – substantial progress is being made, but we all have a lot more to do.”