The Sustainability Series: How Food & Drink Brands Can Make a Difference

In this first edition of our Sustainability Series, we’re looking at the simple but powerful ways food and drink businesses can embrace eco-friendly practices and why it matters for consumers.

Why does sustainability matter in food and drink?

• Consumers care – More than ever, shoppers are seeking brands that reflect their values
• Planet-friendly practices – Agriculture, packaging, and logistics are huge contributors to carbon emissions
• Future-proofing – Building sustainable systems now ensures resilience for years to come

5 ways that food and drink brands are leading the change

1. Sourcing locally

Working with local growers and suppliers cuts down on food miles, supports communities, and ensures fresher, tastier ingredients.

2. Reducing food waste

From creative by-product use (think vodka made from surplus bread like at Vida Vodka) to better inventory management, brands are turning waste into opportunity.

3. Rethinking packaging

Compostable wraps, glass refills, and recycled materials are fast becoming the norm — helping to reduce single-use plastics.

4. Championing regenerative farming 

Forward-thinking producers are going beyond “sustainable” by actively improving soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystems.

5. Energy and water efficiency 

Brands are adopting renewable energy in production, and designing processes that use less water and energy overall. Check out Mechapress to see how you can turn your surplus steam into funds.

Looking ahead

This blog is just the beginning of our Sustainability Series. In upcoming editions, we’ll be diving deeper into topics like:

• How packaging innovation is reshaping the industry
• Rethinking packaging in food and drink
• Tackling food waste in food and drink
• Regenerative farming 

Together, we can celebrate progress, share knowledge, and inspire change.