Shoppers attack processors for not reducing packaging

Suppliers could do more to cut product packaging, according to an overwhelming majority of consumers responding to an exclusive survey for Food Manufacture​.

The Harris Interactive Omnibus survey of 2,080 consumers revealed that nine out of 10 agreed that food and drink manufacturers should do more to reduce the packaging they use.

In addition, out of a list of 'green' issues, the greatest number of respondents picked how recyclable packaging was as something they thought about when buying products. A total of seven out of 10 said the subject was always, often or sometimes on their mind while shopping.

Six out of 10 said they always, often or sometimes thought about the environmental impact of the way products were made and ingredients were sourced.

Just over half thought to the same degree about the environmental impact of the miles travelled and methods used in distributing products. However, 56% rarely or never thought about the amount of energy used to make and store products.

Despite 65% of shoppers claiming greater awareness of environmental issues than a year ago, the research showed significant lack of awareness of the Carbon Trust's labelling scheme. Eight out of 10 said they were unaware of it. The same proportion said they did not know it was intended to communicate the amount of carbon emissions produced in making a product.

The results coincided with the Trust's launch of the Carbon Trust Standard certificate enabling businesses to show they are taking positive action themselves to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions. In order to keep using the Standard, firms need to commit to yearly reductions in carbon emissions.