Goldenberry Sourcing, Packing Switches Mark Big Step in Sustainability
Goldenberry Farm SAS kicked off 2022 with sustainable-forward operations, now using recycled materials for its packaging, and committing to source raw goods regionally to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
Large-scale changes include replacing vendors in China with regional manufacturers in South America, which will help the company save “thousands of tons of potential carbon emissions.” Additionally, locally-purchased cardboard boxes are replacing carton packaging, and the company is partnering with vendors with carbon-neutral facilities driven by solar power.
[Read more: The Future of Manufacturing Intelligence and Sustainability Software]
These initiatives are part of the company’s “Where Good Things Grow” commitment to sustainability, said Goldenberry Farms development director Christopher Palumbo, who adds that consumer research is showing purchasers are favoring environmentally friendly packaging for food, and are also concerned with shelf life and freshness.
A majority of fresh berry consumers (nearly 87%) said they prefer packaging that provides a 360-degree view of the fruit so they can visually inspect it before purchasing, according to Goldenberry.
[Read more: Despite Skepticism, Consumers Want Brands To Have Greener Packaging: GlobalData]
“For this reason, we decided that recycled plastic would be the best alternative for our customers at this time,” said Palumbo.
He stated the company will be sourcing all materials closer to home, looking for “green” manufacturers in Chile — closer proximity to its processing plants in Columbia.
"Small changes make a big difference when you commit on a manufacturing level. We are very proud of our commitment to a better planet, and more sustainable, as well as reusable packaging options are an important part of that,” said Palumbo.
"We are thrilled to be one of the first berry providers to offer a 90% recycled and 100% reusable clamshell — something we consider to be a very important development towards sustainability," he added.
Goldenberry joins a lineup of CG companies embracing sustainability practices in multiple areas of their operations, from packaging, manufacturing, delivery, and more.
