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Protein Brands Implement Sustainability Initiatives as Consumer Interest Grows

Most protein brands are pursuing sustainability initiatives, and the majority of consumers now consider sustainable packaging when purchasing.

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Sustainability is a dominant theme in protein packaging. According to a recent report, 85% of surveyed protein CPGs now have sustainability initiatives underway.

According to PMMI Business Intelligence’s 2022 report “Meat, Poultry, Seafood, & Alternative Proteins: Automation, Expansion, Sanitation,” these companies are primarily using more recyclable materials (41%), lightweighting (35%), or changing packaging formats (27%) to reach their sustainability goals. Other initiatives noted by surveyed brands include adding post-consumer recycled content to packaging (26%), using compostable packaging (17%), eliminating plastics (15%), and using plant-based packaging (12%). 

What's Behind Company Sustainability Initiatives?

Mps InitiativesPMMI Business Intelligence, 2022 Meat, Poultry, Seafood & Alternative Proteins: Automation, Expansion, Sanitation

One manager at an SME frozen meat and poultry brand offered a glimpse at why companies might reach for sustainability, saying “we need a flexible film using greener materials so it’s not impacted by the price of oil.”

An assistant plant manager at a SME fresh beef, pork, and lamb company noted challenges encountered with these initiatives. “We are striving to achieve the goal of more sustainable packaging by 2025, but the challenge is to maintain the standard of quality and safety with thinner films,” according to the report.

The Role of Consumers

Sustainability is a top concern for consumers across all industries. While protein industries have received less consumer scrutiny than other markets in the past, consumers are increasingly concerned with the sustainability of their protein packaging choices.

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