Championing Sustainability in Organic September

Championing Sustainability in Organic September

Feeding the world whilst keeping food prices as low as possible is a challenge for producers. Intensive farming has provided a way to meet demands, yet whilst it keeps prices down, the cost to the environment, animal welfare and consumer health are high.

Organic September highlights the benefits of choosing to buy organic produce. Yes, it is a little more expensive, yet the quality of what you consume and the environment in which it grows makes it great value. You may not be able to shop exclusively organic, but could you commit to a few swaps?

Organic farmers focus on the long-term sustainability of their land. They consider soil health, unpolluted watercourses, biodiversity and animal welfare. These food systems ensure that vital pollinators can thrive and crops have sufficient nutrients to grow. It greatly improves the chances that we have food to eat not only today but far into the future.

Did you know that 50% more plant, insect and bird life is found on organic farms than non-organic? This vital wildlife should not be sacrificed so that we can eat cheaply. More information on why organic is better for wildlife and us is shared on the Soil Association website.

Sustainable Packaging to Prevent Food Waste

When so much goes into food production, it is shocking to read that 3.6million tonnes of food is surplus or wasted in the UK every year. This data was shared in the Wrap Report which focuses on on-farm changes to address the issue.

Other causes of food waste include packaging, promotional offers that encourage us to buy more than we need and a lack of knowledge about cooking with leftovers. As box manufacturers, we will focus on packaging’s role in preventing waste.

The Benefits of Corrugated Cardboard for Consumables

With a shift away from plastic packaging, Aylesbury Box Company has seen an increase in demand for cardboard packaging for consumables. Unlike plastic, cardboard is a sustainable packaging material that can be widely recycled and is biodegradable. As an FSC® certified packaging supplier, we can assure you that sustainability is a priority through our supply chain and manufacturing processes.

Corrugated cardboard is formed from a fluted layer of paper, secured between two outer sheets. This construction provides incredible rigidity and structure, whilst keeping the packaging light and easy to handle.

Air can circulate through the corrugated layers and this has many benefits. It insulates the contents and helps to maintain temperature consistency. The air-filled fluted layers also offer a degree of cushioning to the produce inside. If needed, the corrugation can be double-walled to offer greater strength and protection for heavier or more fragile goods.

Our expert team have provided bespoke cardboard packaging solutions for cheesemakers, butchers, farm shops, cake makers and more. Can we help your organic smallholding or farm with sustainable packaging supplies?

What about Food Safety?

One critical factor in the packaging of consumables is food safety. Moisture, heat and bacteria can all impact food quality, safety and shelf life.

The good news is that although cardboard is recycled into new boxes, bacteria and microbes cannot survive the production process. The fibres are heated to over 100% three times during production, so each new box meets EU Legislation on Good Manufacturing Practice Standards. The natural fibres in cardboard also absorb excess moisture that might be produced in transportation.

Cardboard trays for fruit and vegetables are sufficiently robust to be stacked during transportation. Die-cut handles to allow them to be delivered and stacked straight on the shelf; no need to handle the produce. When sold as loose goods, rather than pre-packaged it enables shoppers to buy what they need, reducing waste. It also reduces the need for plastic packaging.

To find out more about Organic September visit the Soil Association website. To discuss your packaging requirements with our friendly team, get in touch on 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.