The Stixfresh fruit stickers have been unveiled by the Seattle-based startup as a new labeling solution that could help to extend the freshness of produce to prevent unnecessary waste.
The sticker works by being affixed onto the exterior of the fruit and helps to create a barrier around the product that will increase the freshness by about 50%. This means the sticker could help keep fresh fruit sellable and edible for up to 14 days longer to make food waste avoidable by businesses and consumers alike.
The reasoning behind the Stixfresh fruit stickers was explained by Co-founder Moody Soliman who said, "We’re not creating a new step in the process, we’re replacing it with a better product. In the US alone, from farm to fridge, 52% of fresh fruits and vegetables go to waste. Globally, that’s an annual loss in the tens of billions of dollars. According to the Natural Resource Defense Council, the average US household loses $1,800 annually to food waste."
Freshness-Increasing Produce Stickers
These Stixfresh Fruit Stickers Extend Freshness by 50%
Trend Themes
1. Freshness-extending Labels - Businesses can innovate new labeling solutions that increase freshness and reduce waste by up to 50%.
2. Sustainable Food Packaging - Companies can explore food packaging that can enhance freshness and increase shelf life to combat food waste.
3. Smart Agriculture Technology - Farmers can leverage technology to optimize harvesting times and reduce waste through advanced storage and packaging solutions.
Industry Implications
1. Food Retail - Retailers can adopt the use of freshness-extending labels on produce to give them a competitive edge while reducing waste.
2. Consumer Goods - Companies can invest in sustainable food packaging solutions to reduce waste and increase shelf life of food products.
3. Agriculture - Smart agriculture technology can be integrated into farming operations to optimize production and storage, minimizing food waste.