In recent years, the food and drink industry has seen a significant shift towards sustainability, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly practices and products. Brands are launching products, services and/or initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, promoting ethical sourcing, and enhancing transparency.
Shifting Attitudes Towards Sustainable Alternatives
Consumer attitudes towards sustainable alternatives in the food and drink industry have been evolving rapidly. Here are some key statistics that highlight this shift:
- Willingness to Pay More: A global study found that 85% of consumers have shifted their purchase behaviour towards being more sustainable in the past five years1. In the UK, over one-third of consumers stated they would be willing to buy more sustainable or eco-friendly products if they were more easily available2.
- Sustainable Choices: More than 60% of UK consumers try to be sustainable by not letting their food spoil3. Additionally, over half of UK consumers expressed a desire to improve their diet to make it more sustainable, with 54% wanting to eat more sustainably.4
- Generational Trends: Younger generations are particularly motivated by sustainability. In a 2021 survey, 16% of Generation Z and Millennials in the UK stated that sustainability is a particularly important motive when choosing food and beverages.5
These statistics indicate a growing trend towards sustainable food and drink choices, driven by consumer demand and market growth. As consumers become more conscious of their impact, companies are responding with innovative and sustainable practices. Out in the wild, on our Instagram & LinkedIn feeds, on large advertisements, and more – we’ve seen these brands popping up all over!
1. Dash Water: Infusing Sustainability
Dash Water is a sparkling water brand that uses “wonky” fruits and vegetables to create its flavoured drinks. By using produce that would otherwise go to waste, Dash Water addresses food waste and promotes a more sustainable supply chain. Their commitment to reducing waste and using natural ingredients has made them a standout in the beverage industry.
2. Tony’s Chocolonely: Ethical Chocolate Production
Tony’s Chocolonely is on a mission to make chocolate 100% slave-free. The company sources cocoa beans directly from farmers, ensuring fair wages and working conditions. By focusing on ethical sourcing and transparency, Tony’s Chocolonely has disrupted the chocolate industry and set a new standard for social responsibility.
3. Cano Water: Reducing Plastic Waste
Cano Water offers an innovative solution to plastic pollution with its canned water. The brand uses recyclable aluminum cans instead of plastic bottles, significantly reducing the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Cano Water’s focus on sustainability and reducing plastic waste has resonated with eco-conscious consumers and set a new standard for the bottled water industry.
Conclusion
Brands like Tony’s Chocolonely, Dash Water, and Cano Water are leading the way with innovative practices that address environmental and social challenges. As consumers become more conscious of their impact, these companies are setting new standards for sustainability in the food and drink industry.
If your food & drink business is looking to take steps towards a greener future, then email us here: hello@dolcestudio.co