EFFPA marked a decade of progress in promoting the use of former foodstuffs in animal feed, emphasizing their role in reducing food waste and enhancing sustainability in livestock production. The celebratory event in Brussels brought together industry stakeholders, showcasing the potential of former foodstuffs to lower carbon footprints in the feed sector while prioritizing safety requirements.
The European Former Foodstuff Processor’s Association (EFFPA) commemorated its 10th anniversary with a milestone event in Brussels, highlighting a decade of remarkable achievements in reducing food waste and advancing sustainability in livestock production through former foodstuff processing.
The event, moderated by EFFPA Executive Director Anton van den Brink, brought together over 80 participants, including representatives from the European Commission, national member states, stakeholders across the food and feed sectors, and academia.
In a keynote presentation, Professor Luciano Pinotti from the University of Milano emphasized the vital role of former foodstuffs in feed formulations. These materials can be incorporated at levels of up to 30% without compromising animal growth or feed quality. The high fat content and favorable glycaemic index of former foodstuffs also enhance feed intake. Moreover, former foodstuffs exhibit positive impacts and contribute to increased milk yield.
The event's sessions underscored the former foodstuffs processors' contribution to sustainable food production and food waste prevention. Collaborative initiatives between the European Commission and the EU Food Waste & Food Losses Platform were discussed, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals, standardized data reporting, and donation guidelines. The legislative proposal for food waste reduction targets was presented by the European Commission, emphasizing the role of former foodstuffs in reducing food waste.
In the feed use session, speakers emphasized former foodstuffs' potential to lower the carbon footprint in the feed and livestock sectors, underscoring the importance of safety requirements. FEFAC expressed its ambition to promote a 'circular feed culture' in collaboration with relevant actors, enhancing the analysis of potential volumes, metrics, and legal aspects.
EFFPA President Alexander Romme expressed pride in the sector's achievements, stating, "In the past 10 years, the European former foodstuff processing sector has positioned itself as a solution provider in a sustainable food system, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable livestock production. Our sector remains committed to innovation, expansion, and food and feed safety."
The EFFPA's 10th-anniversary celebration represents a significant milestone in the journey towards a more sustainable and efficient food system.