Using Innovation to Keep Foods Fresher for Longer

Ron CottermanVice President, SustainabilitySealed Air Corporation

SAVE FOOD CongressMay 8, 2014

Actions to Address Food Security

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Partnerships

Education

Innovation

Raise awareness, define best practices and develop standards

Information on food handling, proper storage conditions and meal planning

Apply technologies to keep foods fresh and prevent waste

Systems Thinking and Food Supply Chains

Supply Chain Interactions and Food Waste

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15%of incoming

12%of purchased

4%of incoming

4%of incoming

Decisions made at beginning or middle of supply chain affect outcomes at the end

Bringing Food Science into Focus

Sources of Food SpoilagePhysical• Changes in moisture, abuseChemical• Oxidations, browning, proteolysis (light,

heat, enzymes)Microbiological• Putrification (off-odors)• Fermentation (souring)• Rancidity• Molding

Microbes• Yeasts• Molds• Bacteria• Viruses

Significant food waste occurs due to spoilage, which accelerates with increasing temperature

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The Role of Materials Science

Use of Materials Technology to Protect Food

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AbuseOuter Core

Barrier

Inner Core

Sealant

Packaging is engineered to withstand abuse, provide barrier

and make air-tight seals

Technologies to Prevent Food Waste

3. Transport protection

2. Sanitation & hygiene

Supply Chain Technologies

1. Cold chain monitoring

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3. Active packaging

2. Modified atmosphere

Packaging Science Technologies

1. Barrier skin packaging

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3. Meal portioning

2. Reclosability

Packaging Design Technologies

1. Smart(er) labelling

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ConclusionsStrategies for reducing food waste rely on knowledge of:• Supply chain systems• Food science• Materials science

Technology innovations can be deployed to:• Protect food across the supply chain• Use packaging science to extend shelf life• Enable consumers to waste less

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ConclusionsStrategies for reducing food waste rely on knowledge of:• Supply chain systems• Food science• Materials science

Technology innovations can be deployed to:• Protect food across the supply chain• Use packaging science to extend shelf life• Enable consumers to waste less

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