A balanced perspective to rethink plastic in the food and beverage industry

The ongoing dialogue about sustainability often involves plastic taking center stage as a significant contributor to waste and pollution. Concerns about plastic in the food and beverage (F&B) industry are particularly pronounced, especially given alarming statistics like the fact that we might be ingesting a credit card's worth of plastic each week. This plastic comes from various sources, including the wear and tear of tires and other everyday items, but its relevance to our food consumption is undeniable, especially since many single-use materials in the industry are lined with plastic.

However, the conversation around plastic needs to be more nuanced. While the negative impacts are well-documented, it's crucial to understand why plastic is still widely used, particularly in reuse models. This article explores the complexities of plastic in the F&B industry, focusing on its role in a reuse economy and outlining the challenges and benefits associated with its use.

The concerns of plastic in the F&B industry

The worry about plastic in our food and beverage systems stems from its pervasive presence in our environment and, consequently, in our bodies. Microplastics—tiny fragments that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items—are now found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we consume. The idea that we might be ingesting a significant amount of plastic each month is troubling, particularly when considering the potential health risks that are still being studied.

In the F&B industry, plastic is nearly ubiquitous. Even alternatives to traditional plastic, such as paper or aluminum, often have plastic linings to prevent leakage or contamination. This means that while we might be reducing visible plastic waste by opting for these materials, we are not eliminating our exposure to plastic altogether.

The benefits: Why plastic is used for Reuse

Despite these concerns, plastic remains a popular choice for reusable packaging in the F&B industry. The reasons for this are rooted in both practicality and sustainability. Plastics like polypropylene (PP) are favoured because they are light, food-safe, have a high melting point which allows them to handle hot foods, are durable, and have a relatively low lifecycle environmental impact compared to other materials. The lightweight nature of plastic reduces emissions during transportation, and its durability ensures that containers can be reused multiple times before needing replacement.

Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of plastic enables more accessible reuse models. Since plastic is cheaper than many other materials, it allows for the implementation of systems that don't require high deposits, making reusable containers more likely to stay in circulation. This economic advantage is crucial for scaling reuse initiatives and ensuring widespread adoption.

Muuse's position: Balancing sustainability and practicality

At Muuse, our approach to material selection is guided by a commitment to both sustainability and practicality. We have chosen PP and stainless steel as our preferred materials for reusable packaging. These materials offer a clear end-of-life pathway, whether through recycling or repurposing, and they meet the durability and flexibility requirements essential for F&B packaging.

PP, in particular, stands out for its balance between environmental impact and functional performance. Its lower emissions profile, combined with its strength and versatility, makes it a viable option for reducing the overall environmental footprint of the F&B industry. Stainless steel, on the other hand, provides a robust alternative for products that require more rigid packaging, offering long-term durability and recyclability. We use these where we can be sure they are going to be returned many times over.

So what's the conclusion?

The narrative around plastic in the F&B industry is complex, and it's important to acknowledge both the challenges and benefits of its use. While plastic has undeniable drawbacks, especially concerning its impact on health and the environment, it also plays a critical role in enabling sustainable reuse models.

At Muuse, we believe that the key lies in thoughtful material selection and the promotion of reuse over single-use. By choosing materials like PP and stainless steel, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable future for the F&B industry—one where the focus is on reducing overall waste and creating packaging that is both practical and environmentally responsible.

FAQ 

Q: Why is plastic considered the root of our waste issues? 

A: Plastic is very problematic due to its prevalence in pollution, particularly in oceans, and its long degradation time, which poses risks to wildlife and ecosystems.

Q: Are all alternatives to plastic better for the environment? 

A: Not necessarily. Alternatives like bio-based plastics, paper, aluminum, and wood have their own environmental impacts that can sometimes exceed those of plastic, especially when considering their entire lifecycle.

Q: What is the most sustainable option for packaging in the F&B industry?  A: The most sustainable option is one that prioritises reuse over single-use. Products designed for longevity and minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle are preferable.

Q: How does the lifecycle analysis of polypropylene compare to other materials?  A: Lifecycle analysis of polypropylene shows that when used for reusable containers, it can have a lower environmental impact than many materials considered ‘greener’. This includes factors like energy consumption, durability, and end-of-life disposal.

Q: Can bio-based plastics be considered a viable alternative to traditional plastics?  A: While bio-based plastics are derived from renewable sources, they require significant resources for production and behave similarly to traditional plastics in the environment, which limits their viability as a sustainable alternative.

Q: What role does consumer behaviour play in the impact of plastic on the environment?  A: Consumer behaviour plays a crucial role. The shift towards a reuse culture, rather than single-use, can significantly reduce the environmental impact of plastic and other materials. Educating consumers and promoting sustainable practices are key to this transition.