What is Upcycled Food?
Upcycling food is not synonymous with recycling — we're not discussing foods that have been pre-chewed. As defined by the Upcycled Food Association, upcycled food is created from ingredients that otherwise might not have reached the consumer's plate, is procured through verifiable supply chains, and carries a positive environmental footprint.
The growing consciousness among consumers about food waste and the impact of sustainability labels on goods is not lost on the food industry. As a response, an increasing number of companies are now demonstrating their dedication to reducing unsold food waste through the initiation of new product lines.
Fast Facts to consider for our forward-thinkers
From $52B to $83.26B by 2032
Upcycling food, or turning would-be wasted byproducts from one product into something delicious and nutritious for people, has emerged as one of the hottest trends in food and beverage in recent years with the market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.6% from $52b in 2022 to $83.26b by 2032.
80 percent more likely to buy
A 2021 study by Food and Nutrition Sciences revealed that upon gaining knowledge about upcycled food, a remarkable 80% are likely to buy these products.
128 percent growth in 2021
Spoonshot, an AI firm in the food sector, reported a substantial 128% growth in upcycling interest within the business media throughout 2021, highlighting the economic advantages of waste reduction.
Surpasses 2021 growth seen in recycled plastics & Carbon Emissions
Innova Market Insights report indicated a robust 122% compound annual growth over the five years to Q3 2021 for food and beverage introductions incorporating upcycled ingredients. This surpasses the growth seen in products using recycled plastic packaging (59%) and those boasting carbon-emission claims (47%).
62 percent willing to pay extra
Innova’s market research group also found that almost half of consumers actively reduce food waste, and notably, 62% are willing to pay extra for food products that combat waste. Food Dive
122 percent rise in product launches incorporating upcycled ingredients
For 5 years leading up to 2021, product launches incorporating upcycled ingredients witnessed a 122% rise. This trend seems to be on an upward trajectory as prominent consumer goods companies intensify their efforts to tackle food waste. Food Dive
Why it matters: Trimming down food waste not only bolsters profits by slashing unseen expenses and moderating product prices but also draws in a new cohort of consumers who place great emphasis on environmental responsibility when making purchasing decisions.
We’re early in the cycle: Despite the compelling statistics forecasting that this upswing shows no signs of waning—given the tri-fold advantages it offers to every facet of the supply chain—the upcycling movement is still in its infancy.
The Upcycled Food Association
In 2021, the Upcycled Food Association set in motion a pioneering certification framework designed specifically for upcycled ingredients and products.
According to this standard, a minimum of 10% upcycled components is mandated for products, while upcycled certified ingredients should be composed of at least 95% food initially meant for human consumption. To date, an ever-growing number of brands, currently surpassing 50, have seen their products distinguished with the Upcycled Certified badge.
Additional publications that predict a significant upward trend in upcycled goods and practices: Whole Foods , Food and Wine, IFT, Food Dive
Find a supplier or co-manufacturer experienced in working with upcycled items
The most effective way to begin your search is by using the Pick Your Packer search engine to find food & beverage suppliers and co-manufacturers that use upcycled ingredients.
Just use the search function, type your product or service, and select any facilities that come up in the results. From there, you can send a request for a quote instantly, without having to create an account or go through a paywall.
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