Cooperation will generate more ways of reducing food waste - Greenfood is joining SAMS, a national initiative to reduce food waste

The latest technology, innovative packaging and a circular approach that maximizes the use of raw materials. These are just a few examples of how Greenfood is constantly working to reduce food waste. The group is now taking the next step by joining SAMS (Cooperation for reduced food waste), a national agreement on food waste reduction.

Food waste is a global problem - about 30% of all food produced is thrown away. Of no use. It is a huge waste of resources and it has a direct impact on the environment and climate, as food production accounts for a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions. As a food producer, Greenfood has a responsibility to combat food waste. Therefore, the group has, for several years, been working systematically to reduce wastage in the food chain - both through circular and resource-efficient product development, but also by using the latest technology such as AI.

Greenfood is now taking the next step in the fight against food waste by joining SAMS, an agreement in which players in the food chain work together to reduce food waste and food losses.

“Reducing food waste is a high priority for us. We have worked hard for a long time to reduce our waste, but to succeed really well requires cooperation. Between departments, suppliers, partners and customers. Our hope with SAMS is that it leads to a continued reduction in food waste, both for us and for others,” said Lisa Isakson, Head of Sustainability at Greenfood.

Through SAMS and the collaboration that membership entails, food waste problems can be discussed and solutions found, and those ideas can then be spread to more people in the industry. SAMS also means a great opportunity to create projects where several companies and organizations work together, which has proven to be very effective in reducing food waste for all participating players.

Examples of how Greenfood is working to reduce food waste:

• Technology. Utilizing the latest technology with AI, which provides more reliable order forecasts and reduces incorrect order volumes, which is normally a major cause of food waste.

• Circularity and sustainable product use. Focus on circular product development where every bit of raw material is maximized, either by Greenfood or in collaborations with others.

• Donations. Food that is not sold is donated to aid organizations or other actors.

• Range/ planning. Thorough product review. Products with small volumes often lead to increased food waste. Through a product range analysis, these products are identified and Greenfood can act. In addition, the Group is working to improve internal processes between our purchasing, inventory, and sales functions. Good processes balance the flow of goods.

• Collaboration. Cooperation that counteracts food waste and better rations the Earth's resources. For example, Greenfood collaborates with the juice company Rescued Fruits, which makes juices and smoothies from fruit that would otherwise be thrown away.

Contact
Do you want to talk about food waste? Feel free to contact:
Lisa Isakson, Head of Communication & Sustainability, Greenfood.
lisa.isakson@greenfood.se