Trends in CPG Sustainability

Transparency

“Consumers will demand more transparency into packaging recyclability and recovery. With the environment and waste top of mind, consumers are becoming more aware of our broken recycling system and will question what sustainable actually means. They will raise the bar to the materials being used to store and ship products, trusting companies that have a transparent supply chain, local/domestic sourcing and those with a net positive impact on the planet at large.” Elena Guberman, Givr Packaging

Upcycled Food

“Upcycled foods are finally getting their spotlight with all the exciting brands making it an accessible conversation. Though I hesitate to call it a trend! Reducing waste and our carbon footprint through delicious, innovative foods is a way of eating that is here to stay.” Kayla Abe, Ugly Pickle Co.

Measuring Impact

“Now more than ever, brands are expected to show—and measure—value beyond the bottom line. Their theory of impact may include anything from decarbonizing a specific sector, to saving water in parched places, to regenerating soil, to strengthening local economies and beyond.” Seth Sheldon, Rho AI

Messaging

“While the initial assumption might be that brands address sustainability by simply using more "green" materials in their packaging, for Aid&Abet, it's more often that we turn to a brand's messaging and how we can better communicate on the packaging a brand's mission and commitment to sustainability. Whether it's environmentally conscious ingredient sourcing, hyper efficient factory practices, or innovative farming methods, underscoring these as essential brand components to be conveyed on a product's packaging is becoming more and more imperative.” Ken Beasley, Aid & Abet