Tag Archive for: conscious consumer

Is Food Waste the New Food Security?

Global food manufacturers play a significant role in food waste, contributing approximately 1.6 billion tons of lost or wasted food annually.  Of this, 570 million tons arise directly in production and processing, generating 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.  Nearly one-fifth of all food produced—equivalent to around 1 billion meals a day—ends up wasted, costing the economy more than US$1 trillion each year.

In food manufacturing specifically, waste is generated through several points, including inefficient processing, spoilage due to improper storage, and discarding byproducts that could be repurposed.  High-waste categories include fruit and vegetable processing, where nearly half of the raw material can end up as waste, and meat processing, where around 20-30% is typically discarded as unusable parts.  Additionally, many manufacturing systems lack effective technologies to capture and repurpose these byproducts, resulting in significant resource loss.

Improving efficiency in food processing — by adopting technologies that fully utilise raw materials and reduce waste — can dramatically cut down on the waste footprint of global food manufacturers, reducing both food insecurity and environmental impact.

Not only that, but modern technology methods also reduce the cost of manufacture and increase the overall yield – imagine being able to feed more people, and with enhanced nutrition, thus improving overall health…

Tools like the Green Cell Technologies (GCT) Disruptor® technology effectively breaks down cell walls, allowing for more complete nutrient recovery and creating nutrient-dense products that support food security.

These advanced extraction methods can play a transformative role by:

  1. Enhancing Nutrient Density: Fully breaking down cell walls allows for more complete nutrient recovery, providing higher-quality, nutrient-dense products that can support food security.
  2. Reducing Post-Processing Waste: Instead of discarding byproducts, efficient extraction processes repurpose what would otherwise be waste, reducing the total amount of food loss.
  3. Supporting Sustainable Food Systems: By maximizing the use of each ingredient, these technologies lessen the need for additional agricultural resources, thereby helping to conserve land, water, and energy.

By integrating advanced processing technologies, food manufacturers can cut down on waste, minimize environmental impact, and provide a sustainable path toward reducing food insecurity. This approach creates a more resilient, efficient food system, where every resource is utilized to its fullest potential.

For more details on the impact of food waste, see: the WFP’s article on food waste and hunger, as well as refer to reports from the UNEP Food Waste Index and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). 

Fruit Juice – to Fibre or Not, that is the Question

Go all the way – A disruptive solution for digestible and nutritious favourites is turning the fruit juice industry on its head

Fruit juice has been a standard on the menu for many households ever since we learnt how to squeeze nature’s bounty and sup on its joyous essence.  Unfortunately for us though, most of this liquid contains very little, if any, nutritional benefit.  Indeed, it could be argued that what we have been consuming has had a negative effect on our systems.  This is certainly true of products that rely on added sugar to bolster their flavour.

The only reason we have squeezed, pressed, or stomped on the fruit is because that was the only way – or so we all thought – in which to extract the juice.  Not knowing any better, we, as consumers, took it for granted that this was as good as it gets, and we simply got on with the business and pleasure of drinking the products at our disposal.

Nutritionists, though, have argued for years that the whole fruit is better for us, and we should be eating our juice instead – skin and all.  They are right.  But, even when eating our fruits, our body doesn’t necessarily process all that available goodness, as it depends entirely on what the bio-availability co-efficient is of each molecule and the body’s ability to process it – we are all different.

If that sounds hard to swallow, then here’s a simpler explanation.

The human body is its own built-in extraction system – bite the apple, chew the apple, it goes through the system and the body takes up what it can.  But the problem is we also tend not to chew properly, and our cells are only taking up a small fraction of the available molecules of the chewed fruit (or vegetable or protein etc that we are eating), the rest of it is excreted.

Now, if we were able to access more of the molecules – as in a whole fruit (or veggie juice), then our body would be able to use all of what it can of what is available to us, as there is simply more that is bioavailable to the body to be taken up by our system.

Thanks to modern advancements in extraction processing technology, this is now possible.

Why fibre matters

Post COVID-19, there has been a boost in wellness awareness amongst consumers and increasingly, what we eat and how it is made (en masse).  Consumers are now driving industry to embrace necessary change to encompass this shift towards healthier, more wholesome options in how they manufacture the foods we consume.

One area where this change is particularly evident is in fruit juices. Traditionally viewed as a convenient source of vitamins and minerals, many fruit juices lacked an essential component: fibre.

Fibre is a crucial component of a healthy diet, yet it’s often overlooked. Found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, fibre plays a vital role in digestive health, weight management, and disease prevention. Despite its importance, many processed foods, including fruit juices, are stripped of fibre during production, leaving consumers with a nutrient-deficient beverage.

However, with the advent of Disruptor® technology, food manufacturers are now revolutionising fruit juice manufacturing, making them not only delicious but also packed with the vital dietary fibre our bodies need.

Fibre has many health benefits that include:

Improved digestive health – adds bulk to stools, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, it feeds beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome.

Weight management – high-fibre foods help you feel fuller for longer.

Blood sugar control – soluble fibre slows the absorption of sugar, preventing spikes in blood glucose levels.

Heart health – fibre-rich diets have been linked to lower cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.

Disruptor® technology transforming fruit juice

Disruptor® technology is a game-changer in the food industry, allowing manufacturers to produce nutrient-dense products that retain their natural integrity. Unlike traditional processing methods that often denature foods, Disruptor technology allows for a process called ‘Dynamic Cellular Disruption®’ (DCD®), that preserves the nutritional value of fruits while enhancing their digestibility.

By utilising this innovative technology and process, food manufacturers can create fruit juices that maintain their fibre content without compromising taste or texture. This means consumers can enjoy the convenience of fruit juices and reap the health benefits of dietary fibre.

The future of fruit juices

With the demand for healthier food options on the rise, the future of fruit juices looks promising. Disruptor technology and DCD enable food manufacturers to meet consumer needs for whole foods that are digestible, complete, and nutritionally rich. By incorporating fibre into fruit juices, they can not only satisfy consumer preferences but also contribute to improved public health.

Health and wellness of humankind and the planet are key agenda items for our combined survival.  Innovations like Disruptor technology and DCD, play a crucial role in shaping the future of the food industry, and the world around us, as not only does whole fruit juice mean better health for consumers, because waste is either majorly minimised or eradicated all together, our earth gets to breathe better too.

In fact, Disruptor technology has been shown to drastically reduce waste across the entire food and beverage manufacturing sector.

So next time you go to buy your carton of fruit juice, check for the DCD Green Leaf crest as to whether your product has chosen to go all in or not.

Revolutionising the Plate: Disruptor® Technology and the Eco-Friendly Evolution of F&B

In an era marked by growing environmental concerns and a heightened focus on personal health, the food and beverage (F&B) industry is undergoing a transformative shift. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of their dietary choices on both their well-being and the planet. As a result, the demand for healthier, sustainably produced food and drinks is surging. This paradigm shift is not only influencing what ends up on our plates but also how it gets there.

The environmental toll of traditional food production

Traditional methods of food and beverage production have long been associated with significant environmental consequences. From deforestation for agriculture to excessive water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, our conventional approach to feeding the global population has been taking a toll on the planet.

But that’s how it’s grown.  What about how it is made?

Consumers drive change

The shift towards sustainability is not solely driven by environmental concerns; consumers are also demanding healthier alternatives. As people become more conscious of their diets, they are seeking products that align with their health and wellness goals. This shift in consumer preferences is acting as a catalyst for the F&B industry to reassess and reformulate its products and how those products are processed.

Disruptor Technology: A game-changer for sustainability

Enter Disruptor® technology, a revolutionary force that is reshaping the landscape of food and beverage production. Disruptive technology is an innovative solution that challenges and replaces or fundamentally enhances traditional methods, offering more efficient, sustainable, and often healthier alternatives.

Disruptor® technology can process ‘whole’ organic material – meaning that the technology allows for things like whole orange, lemon, or apple juice for example.  It can also easily process all parts of the animal meat carcass – including 4th and 5th quarter meats – unlike any other processing equipment. No rendering required.

Making use of the entire plant or the entire animal has exponential positive impact on our environment – making the most of what we already have…

Reducing food waste

With billions of tons of food wasted each year globally, advancements in smart packaging, preservation techniques, and supply chain management are helping minimize the environmental impact of food production. However, it can now go beyond these measures as Green Cell Technologies’ has perfected Dynamic Cellular Disruption (DCD) through the Disruptor machine to process whole organic material without waste.  Or, the same process and technology can take existing waste streams, sterilise any micro or pathogens and turn ‘waste’ into ‘value.’  Waste can be reduced or completely eradicated.

Plant-based alternatives

The rise of plant-based alternatives is another disruptive force making waves. Companies are leveraging technology to create plant-based products that mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat, providing environmentally friendly options for consumers looking to reduce their ecological footprint.

Precision agriculture

In the realm of utilising data, sensors, and automation, farmers can optimize resource use, reduce waste, and minimise environmental impact. This not only benefits the planet but also contributes to the production of healthier crops – imagine disrupting all the goodness from improved rootstock?

As consumers increasingly prioritise healthier and more sustainable choices, the F&B industry is compelled to embrace new technologies that align with these values. The marriage of technology and sustainability is not just a trend; it’s an imperative for the survival of our planet. By supporting innovations that reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and promote healthier eating, we can collectively contribute to a more sustainable and climate-friendly future—one bite and sip at a time.

Look out for the Green Cell Technologies (GCT) leaf on your favourite products to know that your manufacturer is using DCD and Disruptor technology.  No leaf – ask the manufacturer why they are not taking your health and the planet seriously…

Conscious Eating

The food industry is experiencing significant trends related to consumer preference for whole and natural foods, driven by a desire for preventative care, improved mental health, and overall wellness.  Ignited by the COVID-19 era, consumers are becoming more health-conscious and interested in the quality of their food, leading to several notable shifts in the industry:

  1. Preventative care – Consumers are increasingly adopting a proactive approach to their health by focusing on preventive measures, which includes choosing foods that can support their well-being. There is a growing awareness of how diet can influence overall health, and many are seeking whole and natural foods with specific health benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
  2. Mental health and wellness – Mental health is gaining prominence as an important aspect of overall well-being. People are recognizing the link between diet and mental health, leading to a demand for foods that can support cognitive function, reduce stress, and improve mood. Whole and natural foods are seen as a key component of a holistic approach to mental wellness.
  3. Transparency and clean labelling – Consumers are becoming more discerning about what they consume. They want to know where their food comes from, how it’s made, and what ingredients are used. Clean labeling and transparency in food production are important, as people seek to avoid additives, preservatives, and highly processed ingredients.
  4. Sustainability – Sustainability is a critical concern for modern consumers. They are looking for food options that are not only good for their health but also environmentally friendly. Sustainable sourcing, packaging, and production practices are increasingly important to many consumers.
  5. Plant-based and natural alternatives – The rise of plant-based diets and a focus on natural ingredients is evident. People are exploring plant-based proteins, dairy alternatives, and minimally processed foods as part of their dietary choices.

Green Cell Technologies’ Disruptor technology can potentially make a significant difference in addressing these trends. The technology is known for its ability to efficiently extract valuable compounds from plant-based materials while preserving their natural attributes. Here’s how it aligns with the trends:

  1. Nutrient preservation – Disruptor technology can help preserve the natural nutritional components of whole foods, ensuring that consumers receive the full spectrum of health benefits these foods offer. This aligns with the trend of preventive care, where consumers are looking for nutrient-rich-options.
  2. Clean labelling – The technology allows for the production of clean-label products by extracting valuable compounds from natural sources without the need for synthetic additives or solvents. This appeals to consumers who prioritize transparency in food production.
  3. Plant-based and natural alternatives – the technology can be used to extract and concentrate plant-based ingredients, making it valuable in the development of plant-based foods, supplements, and natural alternatives that align with current consumer preferences.
  4. Sustainability – Green Cell Technologies’ Disruptor technology can contribute to sustainability by reducing waste and making more efficient use of raw materials in the food production process.

As consumers become more discerning about what they eat and seek whole, natural, and nutrient-rich foods for their well-being, technologies like the Disruptor and the Dynamic Cellular Disruption process, can play a role in meeting these demands. The technology’s ability to extract valuable compounds from natural sources efficiently can support the development of products that cater to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers.

Podcast: The Movement to Conscious Capitalism – with Roy Henderson

Roy Henderson discusses the movement to conscious capitalism with Nicci Robertson on the RE~INVENT Podcast.

Listen online or on Spotify.

We don’t have a food crisis, we have a food waste crisis – South Africa

If you want to know how much food the world wastes, the internet is your friend.

It can tell you about the farm in the United States (US) that dumps at least a quarter of its potatoes for being too big, too small, too ugly or the “wrong” colour. Or about how food waste is responsible for 8% of all pollution.

Staying in the US, because it is a well-monitored microcosm of a global problem, as well as home to the world’s biggest garbage mountain, food manufacturers generate 55 000 tonnes of waste a day by trimming off edible skin, fat, crusts and peels.

Imagine being aboard the International Space Station and watching trillions of dollars being sucked into orbit every year by a sinister alien invader seeking to break the back of Earth’s economy: that’s what food waste does.

Even in Africa, home to many of the world’s hungriest people, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says the amount of food wasted could feed an additional 300 million people.

Read the full article on farmingportal.co.za

#Consciouscapitalism: The new imperative for food and beverage manufacturers

The world has an opportunity to reboot itself into a healthier, more sustainable and equitable position post-COVID-19. Whether we take advantage of this valuable reprieve from our pre-virus path remains to be seen.  

Every facet of our human existence is affected, perhaps not directly by this particular coronavirus but, certainly, by the resultant lockdown of the global economy. While I cannot comment on other industries, I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that the food and beverage manufacturing sectors have to change.

The current way in which the majority of our food and beverage is produced is detrimental to humans, to our animal kingdom and to the planet as a whole. Many of our processes in play today were designed at the advent of the industrial revolution. They use only a fraction of the available nutrition we essentially need to function optimally, are expensive to operate and generate vast amounts of waste.

Read full article on fooddive.com