The SAVE FOOD Initiative has deepened its global collaboration by formally expanding its partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the World Packaging Organisation (WPO). Since its founding in 2011 by Messe Düsseldorf and interpack, SAVE FOOD has worked to reduce food loss and waste across the value chain, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3. The strengthened alliance adds technical expertise, development-policy depth, and broader international reach. “Food loss and waste is a global problem that only international cooperation can effectively address,” said Thomas Dohse, Director interpack and SAVE FOOD Initiative, highlighting the importance of uniting industry know-how with policy and practical implementation. UNIDO’s focus on midstream infrastructure and climate-smart processing, alongside WPO’s emphasis on packaging’s role in minimizing waste, underscores the initiative’s integrated approach to sustainable food systems.

A central stage for this expanded collaboration will be interpack 2026, taking place 7–13 May in Düsseldorf. SAVE FOOD will host Expert Talks, a Highlight Route showcasing member solutions, the SAVE FOOD Awards, and a new project competition that will financially support selected initiatives for the first time. Longstanding partner FAO continues to contribute expertise in food security and sustainable systems, reinforcing the initiative’s policy and agricultural dimension. By connecting agriculture, processing, packaging, logistics, and waste management, the partnership positions SAVE FOOD as a global platform driving practical, innovation-led solutions to food loss. Through education, design-for-recycling, and scalable industrial strategies, the alliance aims to accelerate measurable progress toward more resilient and sustainable food systems worldwide.

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