New US packaging strategy aims to cut food waste

The Biden-Harris administration has announced a 'National Strategy to Reduce Food Loss and Waste and Recycle Organics'. This initiative, developed by the USDA, EPA, FDA, and the White House, aims to address climate change, improve food security, and promote a circular economy.

The strategy sets specific goals for preventing food waste, increasing organic material recycling, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Key actions include:

• USDA Funding Initiatives:
  • $2.5 million to test consumer messages on reducing food waste.
  • $1.5 million for a new research centre on food loss and waste prevention.
  • Support for innovative packaging technologies to extend food shelf life.
• On-Farm Food Loss Reduction:
  • Collaboration with farmers and organisations to minimise on-farm food loss.

The initiative emphasises building community-scale recycling infrastructure to reduce pollution and create jobs, particularly in areas with environmental justice concerns.

EPA Administrator, Michael S. Regan, said: Each year food produced in the United States ends up in landfills, instead of on American dinner tables. This waste hurts our economy, raises the cost of food, and contributes to climate pollution. The National Strategy we are announcing today provides a comprehensive set of actions that EPA and our partners at USDA and FDA will take to reduce waste and protect our environment while improving food security and saving money for families and businesses.

This strategy highlights the administration's commitment to sustainability and environmental health.