World Food Day, observed on October 16, focuses on global efforts to combat hunger, promote food security, and foster sustainable agricultural practices. While the connection between food systems and wet wipe manufacturers might not seem obvious at first, we can play a vital role in supporting the objectives of this important day.
From working with suppliers to promote sustainability through eco-friendly materials to enhancing hygiene in food handling and preparation, there is always an opportunity to contribute to the broader goals of World Food Day.
Here, Guardpack explores how our industry can align itself with the themes of sustainability, food safety, and corporate social responsibility, making a positive impact on both the environment and global food system.
World Food Day
World Food Day is an annual global event, established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in 1979 to raise awareness about hunger, food security, and sustainable food systems. The day commemorates the FAO’s founding in 1945 and promotes international efforts to end hunger and malnutrition.
Each year, World Food Day highlights a specific theme focused on key global challenges like water scarcity, climate change, food loss, and the importance of inclusive and equitable food systems.
The day is marked by various activities worldwide, including educational campaigns, conferences, policy discussions, and charity events aimed at addressing hunger. Governments, international organisations, NGOs, and communities collaborate to promote sustainable agriculture, reduce food waste, and improve food access.
How the Wet Wipe Industry Can Play A Part
So, how can the wet wipe industry play its part in this important national day? At Guardpack, our leading wet wipe manufacturers are passionate about doing as much as we can for the environment and therefore, impacting this cause. Here are our suggestions:
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Wet wipes, particularly single-use ones, have been widely criticised for their environmental impact due to non-biodegradable materials like plastic and synthetic fibres. As World Food Day promotes sustainable food systems and the responsible use of resources, wet wipe manufacturers and suppliers can contribute by transitioning to eco-friendly and biodegradable materials. This reduces waste and environmental harm, which aligns with the broader goals of sustainability in food production and consumption.
At Guardpack, this is something we’ve been doing for a long time and are passionate about our customer offerings being as eco-friendly as possible.
Hygiene and Food Safety
Proper hygiene is critical to prevent foodborne illnesses, and the use of wet wipes can help maintain cleanliness in food-related settings, from small cafes to huge restaurant chains and all that’s in between. In fact, the FSA recommends doing so. Wet wipe manufacturers should work alongside suppliers to promote hygienic practices through eco-friendly products, enhance the message of food safety and support healthier food environments, a key focus of World Food Day.
At Guardpack, our expert team has a network of trusted contacts that can assist in making sure you are following correct product and packaging protocol, encouraging best practice from start to finish.
Water and Sanitation Issues
Access to clean water and proper sanitation are critical components of food security and public health, issues central to World Food Day. The industry can play an important role in addressing water and sanitation challenges, especially in areas where clean water is scarce, or sanitation systems are underdeveloped.
Proper sanitation and hygiene are essential in preventing foodborne illnesses, which are a major concern in food systems worldwide. Wet wipes, particularly those designed for sanitisation, can help maintain hygiene in food handling environments. This is especially important in areas with limited access to clean water for washing hands and surfaces. Eco-friendly, biodegradable wipes can provide a quick and safe alternative for maintaining cleanliness without further polluting water systems, reinforcing the message of clean and safe food for all.
Packaging and Waste Reduction
The food industry and the wet wipe industry face common challenges in packaging waste. By innovating more sustainable packaging (e.g., compostable or recyclable elements), wet wipe manufacturers and suppliers can help to reduce plastic waste, which is harmful to ecosystems and affects food chains. This resonates with World Food Day’s advocacy for reducing food loss and waste across the supply chain.
Disposable wipes themselves can also add to landfill waste, and in some cases, non-biodegradable wipes are flushed down toilets, leading to clogged sewage systems that can disrupt local infrastructure and waste disposal.
Guardpack wet wipe manufacturers are advocates for the environment and are passionate about our plastic free wet wipe offering. We work with suppliers to educate about the environmental consequences of improper disposal.
Get in Touch
If you wish to partner alongside an industry leading wet wipe manufacturer who is committed to the environment, community and passionate about helping brands to grow, Guardpack would love to hear from you!
Get in touch with us by filling out our contact form, emailing us at trade@guardpack.co.uk, or speak to one of the team on 01245 505807.
