Food waste is one of the biggest challenges for the meat industry, with both economic and environmental impacts. According to FAO, approximately 20% of processed meat is lost along the supply chain, from slaughterhouse to consumer.

In Romania, a 2024 report by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR) shows that losses reach 16%, mainly during the distribution stage. The European Union has set the goal of reducing food waste by 50% by 2030, which compels processors and retailers to adopt innovative solutions.

These include smart packaging, apps for redistributing products close to their expiration date, and stock digitalization. In Germany, a pilot program using dynamic labels reduced supermarket food waste by 12%.

In Romania, several major retail chains are testing similar solutions, but large-scale implementation remains limited. “Reducing waste is not just an obligation, but also an opportunity for efficiency and social responsibility,” stated an expert from the European Commission.

The meat industry must see sustainability as a source of added value, not just an additional cost.

(Photo: Freepik)