At the recent Gulfood Manufacturing Food-Tech Summit, sustainability dominated discussions as packaging industry leaders gathered to explore innovative solutions that balance environmental responsibility with economic feasibility. Moderated by Ben Daniel, Chief Editor of Packaging MEA, the panel featured experts from packaging material producers, machine manufacturers, and converters. Together, they tackled pressing issues such as recycling infrastructure, emerging technologies, collaboration, and the critical role of consumer education in fostering sustainable practices.
Balancing Functionality and Sustainability
Ben Daniel opened the discussion by emphasizing sustainability’s growing significance within the packaging sector. He underscored the dual role packaging plays in preserving food safety while minimizing its environmental footprint. The industry, Daniel noted, faces rising consumer demands for greener solutions and increasingly stringent regulations, making sustainability a central priority.
“Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s fundamental,” Daniel remarked, setting a clear agenda for the session. His statement resonated with the audience, as it underscored a collective responsibility to redefine packaging practices for a sustainable future.
Tetra Pak: Recycling as a Sustainability Pillar
Marcelo Piva, Sustainability Director for Tetra Pak in the Middle East and Africa, highlighted the company’s multifaceted approach to reducing environmental impact. A key initiative includes a partnership with Union Paper Mill (UPM) in the UAE, enabling consumers to sell used Tetra Pak cartons. This collaboration provides an incentive for recycling while assisting brand owners in meeting sustainability targets. “We’re building strong recycling infrastructure in the UAE through local partnerships and collection systems,” Marcelo stated. This initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to creating a circular economy.
He further discussed Tetra Pak’s R&D efforts, particularly innovations aimed at replacing aluminum barriers in cartons with paper-based alternatives. These advancements, Marcelo explained, are steps toward achieving fully recyclable packaging while maintaining product safety and quality.
Promoting Circular Economy: The Converter’s Role
Representing the converters’ perspective, Jamil Haddad, VP-Strategy at Al Bayader International, emphasized the critical importance of recycling and circularity in packaging design. Since 2006, Al Bayader has prioritized sustainability by developing recyclable products and fostering consumer awareness.
“Balancing cost and sustainability is challenging, but consumer education is critical,” Jamil noted. He highlighted how Al Bayader integrates FSC-certified paper and recycled PET into its offerings to combine functionality with reduced environmental impact.
Jamil also addressed the need to clearly communicate products’ carbon footprints and recyclability, making it easier for consumers to make environmentally conscious choices. His remarks reflected a deep understanding of the challenges facing converters as they strive to harmonize innovation, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.
MULTIVAC: Innovations Sustainabe Packaging
Amir Sotoudeh, Managing Director of MULTIVAC, showcased how advanced machinery drives sustainability by reducing packaging waste and improving efficiency. The company employs downgauging techniques to minimize material thickness and incorporates smart systems that repurpose waste plastics generated during production.
“Our machines focus on reducing carbon footprints without compromising food safety or shelf life,” Amir explained. He emphasized automation’s transformative potential, highlighting its ability to optimize processes, minimize downtime, and cut waste—all while enhancing cost efficiency.
Amir also shared how MULTIVAC collaborates with clients to develop tailored packaging solutions that meet sustainability goals. This client centric approach positions technology as a key enabler for creating environmentally friendly packaging.
Paper-Based Packaging: Opportunities & Limits
As demand for paper-based packaging rises in the Middle East, Peyman W., CEO of JASA Packaging Solutions, weighed in on its opportunities and limitations. While paper is gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative, Peyman cautioned that it is not universally applicable. “Not all products are suitable for paper,” Peyman noted. JASA collaborates with research institutions, such as Wageningen University, to explore new materials and adapt machinery for evolving market needs.
Peyman also highlighted a recently launched JASA machine designed for thinner, more sustainable materials. This machine combines patented cutting-edge technology with efficiency, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability without sacrificing performance.
Consumer Education: A Key Pillar
A recurring theme during the discussion was the importance of consumer education in advancing sustainability. Ishar, an audience member from Eco Fiber Bahrain, raised concerns about the slow adoption of sustainable materials in the region due to cost sensitivities and limited awareness.
“Education is key,” Peyman responded, citing Europe’s success in integrating sustainability awareness into school curricula. He argued that a similar approach could drive cultural shifts toward environmental responsibility in the Middle East.
Marcelo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing collaboration among brands, retailers, and converters as vital for amplifying educational efforts. Such partnerships, he argued, could incentivize consumers to embrace sustainable practices and create a ripple effect throughout the supply chain.
Aligning Performance with Sustainability
While sustainability was the session’s primary focus, panelists warned against losing sight of packaging’s core purpose: preserving food and minimizing waste. Jamil pointed out that switching from plastic to paper could shorten shelf life for certain products, leading to increased food waste—a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
“Sustainable packaging must enhance, not compromise, its primary purpose,” Jamil stressed. His comments underscored the complexity of designing packaging that balances environmental and functional priorities.
Emerging Trends: Mono-Materials & Circularity
The panel also explored trends poised to shape the future of sustainable packaging, such as mono-material solutions. Amir identified mono-material packaging as a promising innovation for recyclability and regulatory compliance, especially for fresh produce and short-shelf-life products. However, he acknowledged that achieving cost efficiency remains a challenge.
“To achieve viability, we must optimize resource usage and scale production,” Amir said. Marcelo added that balancing innovation, cost, and sustainability is key to meeting consumer and regulatory expectations.
Key Takeaways: Path to Sustainability
The session concluded with actionable insights:
- Sustainability is essential: Companies must prioritize environmental initiatives in response to consumer and regulatory demands.
- Education is vital: Raising awareness can drive widespread adoption of sustainable practices.
- Collaboration matters: Partnerships across the value chain are crucial for achieving circularity.
- Innovation and cost: Scaling sustainable materials can make them more accessible and affordable.
The MENA may not yet match Europe or North America, but the pace of change here is remarkable,” Marcelo noted, reflecting a growing optimism about the region’s potential to lead in sustainable packaging with the right investments and partnerships.
Panelists and attendees left with a reinforced commitment to sustainability. The event emphasized the industry’s innovative potential, confirming that sustainability is now a key driver shaping the future of the food and beverage sector.