Government-commissioned study validates industry call for a ‘function-first’ approach to sustainable packaging solutions

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) have released a new study highlighting the economic impact of replacing fresh produce packaging based on material alone on consumers and the entire supply chain.

The report, "Estimating the Cost Implications of Reducing Plastic Packaging for Fresh Produce," reinforces the fresh produce industry’s long-held position that sustainable packaging solutions must be evaluated holistically, with foodwaste prevention as the primary goal.

This costing analysis builds on the findings of a 2024 government study, "Quantifying the Functionality Importance ofPlastic Packaging in Fresh Produce from a Needs/Benefit Perspective," which established an innovative framework to understand the critical role packaging plays in protecting fresh produce.

While the initial study defined why functionality is crucial, this new report quantifies the significant economic consequences of ignoring it.

Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) applauds the government for investing in this evidence-basedresearch, which highlights the complex trade-offs between packaging materials and their impact on food affordability and accessibility. The findings strongly validate the principles behind the joint Sustainable Produce PackagingAlignment (SPPA) initiative co-led by CPMA and Western Growers, a U.S.-based association, which seeks to create a science-based, functional approach to packaging for the North American fresh produce industry.