As the global community becomes increasingly concerned with sustainability, the fruit juice industry finds itself at a critical juncture from an environmental standpoint. In what ways can an industry that consumes so much water and energy transition to more environmentally sustainable practices?
Dear Food People,
In this week’s article, let's chat about something that affects us all, whether it's your morning OJ or a consoling sip of mimosa just after 12 p.m. ever so discretely from a tiny flask after clearing the first bulk of work emails sent heartlessly to you while you’re away on a holiday: the fruit juice industry and its journey towards sustainability.
First off, let's talk numbers. We're looking at a massive market value of $141 billion, with a mind-boggling production volume of 67.6 billion litres in 2022. That's a whole lot of juice flowing around! But with great production comes great responsibility, especially for the environment. Water consumption in this sector has been significantly increased by the industrial sector, which contributes an additional 20%, with agriculture accounting for a staggering 70%. Also, on energy consumption, it is worth noting that the juice bottling facilities consume 0.71 MJ per litre of juice. That alone should provoke contemplation in all individuals.
Now, let's talk packaging. Plastic bottles are the go-to, accounting for approximately 30% of the market. But fear not, eco-warriors! The industry is making strides towards more sustainable options like PET and paper-based composites. These materials not only reduce environmental footprints but also cater to our growing demand for longer shelf life and purity in our juices.
But here's the kicker: it's not just about what the industry does; it's about what we, the consumers, demand. Yep, you heard that right. Our preferences are steering the ship towards sustainability, and we call the shots now. From supporting eco-friendly companies to advocating for sustainable policies, every choice we make counts. Sure, there are challenges ahead. Economic constraints and regulatory mazes can make the path to sustainability feel like a maze. But here's the silver lining: We've got the power to drive change. Armed with knowledge and a passion for a greener planet, we can make a difference.
Now, let's talk about certifications, an industry that I am so passionate about, given my career background. The fruit juice industry isn't just talking the talk; they're walking the walk with certifications like the Sustainable Juice Covenant (SJC), aiming for 100% sustainable sourcing by 2030, and the Rainforest Alliance Certification, ensuring effective planning and management while conserving biodiversity. These certifications aren't just fancy stamps; they're a promise to uphold environmental and social responsibility.
So, what's the bottom line? The fruit juice industry is at a crucial crossroads, balancing economic prowess with environmental stewardship. And while the road ahead may be challenging, the trajectory towards sustainability is clear. Together, let's raise our glasses to a greener, juicier (and more sustainable glass of mimosa) future.
And hey, if you have any insights or suggestions regarding how we can address environmental or food sustainability concerns, or if there's a specific topic, you'd like us to explore in our next issue, drop us a message at dearfoodpeople.com.
Further reading:
Tando Beverage. (n.d.). 4 popular types of materials for juice packaging and the development trend. Available at: https://tandobeverage.com/juice-packaging/
iSell Packaging. (n.d.). Factors That Will Dominate Juice Packaging Industry. Available at: https://www.isellpackaging.com/factors-that-will-dominate-juice-packaging-industry/
Future Market Insights. (n.d.). Fruit Juice Packaging Market. Available at: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/fruit-juice-packaging-market
Tico Machinery. (n.d.). What are the materials for fruit juice packaging? Available at: https://www.ticomachine.com/faq/fruit-juice-packaging.html
Good Start Packaging. (n.d.). Juice Bottles. Available at: https://www.goodstartpackaging.com/juice-bottles/
Austria Juice. (n.d.). Sustainability Certifications: What can I rely on? Available at: https://www.austriajuice.com/news-blog/sustainability-certifications
Louis Dreyfus Company. (n.d.). Sustainable Juice. Available at: https://www.ldc.com/sustainability/responsible-supply-chain/sustainable-juice/
MDPI. (2023). Fruit Juice Industry’s Transition Towards Sustainability from the Viewpoint of the Producers. Sustainability, 15(4), 3066. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043066
IDH - the Sustainable Trade Initiative. (n.d.). Sustainable Juice Covenant. Available at: https://www.idhsustainabletrade.com/initiative/sustainable-juice-covenant/
Rainforest Alliance. (n.d.). Rainforest Alliance Certified Orange Juice: Creating a More Sustainable Orange Sector. Available at: https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/insights/rainforest-alliance-certified-orange-juice/
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