In recent years, sustainability has become a vital requirement and has also involved the activities of rice companies and their production methods.
As one of the world’s most widely consumed foods and an essential part of the diet of billions of people, rice accounts for a significant share of the global food market. But it is not only about the way rice is grown: the way it is packaged, distributed and sold also has a huge impact on the environment.
Aware of the environmental challenges and growing consumer expectations, companies in the industry are confronted with the issue of packaging, looking for solutions that are not only functional, but also environmentally friendly.
As one of the pillars of the food industry, rice production generates a significant amount of product and, as a result, also an enormous amount of packaging. Traditionally, packaging materials in B2B commerce are chosen with durability, efficiency and cost savings in mind, while retail companies also have to consider marketing strategies. Accordingly, plastic, polystyrene and other petroleum derivatives have dominated the packaging landscape for decades.
However, this has had considerable consequences. The production of plastics and other synthetic materials consumes large amounts of resources and energy and releases a considerable amount of carbon emissions into the atmosphere. But the real problem comes at the end of the product life cycle. After the rice has been consumed, the packaging often ends up in landfills or, even worse, in water, which is washed into the oceans. It is estimated that millions of tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans every year, harming marine life and entering the food chain.
It is now well known that the use of plastics also has a direct impact on biodiversity. Nowadays, policies to reduce plastic consumption are being introduced to prevent certain animal species from being seriously endangered. In Italy, for example, the use of single-use plastic, such as straws, plates, glasses, etc., has been banned since 2022.
Furthermore, the European Commission endorsed guidelines at the end of 2022 in relation to the reduction of packaging waste, with the aim of repurposing. The goal is that by 2030, in line with the European ecological agenda, all packaging will be recyclable.
There are three key aspects:
In the coming months, the use of sustainable packaging may not be simply a choice, but a legal obligation. However, in addition to the objective of compliance with legal regulations, adopting sustainable packaging policies at this stage can have other benefits as well.
As the demand for more sustainable packaging solutions grows, the industry responds with innovation and creativity. The transition from traditional synthetic materials to those that can decompose naturally is a significant step towards a greener future. Raw materials such as corn starch, cellulose, and even fungi and algae are becoming the basis for new types of biodegradable packaging.
However, understanding the difference between compostable, biodegradable and recyclable packaging is essential.
One of the key points in sustainable packaging production involves the reduction of plastic. Companies are exploring alternatives such as glass, cardboard and metal, or are adopting recycled or plant-based plastics. This not only reduces the amount of new plastic produced, but also encourages a culture of recycling and reuse.
Companies are also devising campaigns that reduce the use of packaging. Simpler, more functional designs are emerging that reduce the use of materials and minimise waste.
In this respect, technology could also offer an interesting contribution. The adoption of QR codes providing information on sustainability or intelligent indicators signalling product freshness are examples of how technology is revolutionising packaging. These tools not only improve the consumer experience but also promote greater environmental awareness.
These trends are only the beginning. With continued innovation and increasing demand for environmentally friendly solutions, we can expect further developments in the near future. The key, as always, will be the balance between functionality, aesthetics and environmental responsibility.
An Italian company belonging entirely to the Spanish Ebro Foods Group, the first agri-food group in Spain, world leader in the rice sector, a strong position in pasta sector, boasts a range of over 60 brands distributed all over the world.
Mundi Riso S.r.l.
Via Camillo De Rossi, 14
13100 Vercelli
Tel. +39 0161 28 28 28
Fax: +39 0161 21 33 65
P.IVA 01818090027