At Avery Dennison, we are investing in innovation to tackle food waste through new technologies:

1. Extending freshness and shelf life 

Innovations are creating significant value and extending the freshness of food products. 

• In Colombia, we collaborated with Nestlé to create a resealable package label solution with an airtight, moisture-resistant barrier that keeps confectionery fresh in hot, humid climates. Consumers can enjoy fresh,  quality products over a longer period. The solution reduces household waste and builds brand loyalty.

• Our partnership with agri-tech startup Fresh Inset produced the Vidre+ label, a solution that extends the shelf life of produce by days or even weeks. Spinach can remain at excellent quality for up to 10 additional days and raspberries for up to 20 days. Freshness-extending label technology is a game-changer for reducing spoilage during transport and at retail, opening new global markets for perishable goods.
  

2. Enabling end-to-end visibility
You can't manage what you don't see. Connected packaging technologies like RFID (radio frequency identification) provide the item-level data needed to manage inventory with precision.

• By applying RFID labels to products, retailers gain real-time visibility into stock levels and expiration dates. Our work with Walmart on a first-of-its-kind sensor for its meat department automates item-level identification. This allows associates to spend less time on manual checks and more time serving customers, all while ensuring fresher products are on the shelf and waste is significantly reduced.

• Similarly, Kroger implemented a strategic RFID initiative in its bakery category. This has drastically improved on-shelf availability, optimized margins, and significantly reduced waste in one of retail’s most time-sensitive categories.
  

3. Championing a circular economy
Sustainable packaging and waste reduction are two sides of the same coin. Innovations that support recyclability are no longer just an environmental issue; they are a core business concern.

•  Avery Dennison technologies like CleanFlake® enable recyclability by allowing labels to separate cleanly from PET bottles during the recycling process. This simple innovation enhances recycling efficiency and effectiveness The recycled packaging materials reduce demand for virgin plastics and minimizing landfill waste.

• Reuse and refill models used at scale can help reduce packaging waste while ensuring the safety and longevity of food. 

Explore our full report and see how Avery Dennison packaging innovations are tackling the food waste challenge.