5. Packaging
UK Pet Food is championing the shift towards a more circular packaging system across the pet food industry, one that’s better for the environment and works for businesses and pet owners alike.
This transformation isn’t straightforward. It relies on strong collaboration across the value chain and with the government at both national and local levels. One of the biggest hurdles for our members is the lack of consistent and effective recycling infrastructure, which hinders meaningful progress.
Why is action needed?
Packaging plays a crucial role in the delivery of pet food - maintaining quality and safety, protecting food from damage and losses, improving shelf life and helping communication with consumers.
While packaging accounts for a relatively small proportion of overall sector carbon emissions, negative environmental impacts are highly visible - particularly when waste packaging is treated in landfills or escapes to pollute land or water. The pet food sector faces unique challenges, including the need for durable materials and the complexity of recycling flexible and multilayer packaging.