The #Safe2EatEU event brought together stakeholders from various sectors to address the pressing issue of food waste and its implications on the economy and the environment. Teodora Tompea, the moderator, emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in food production and consumption as key elements for a healthier future. She highlighted that discussions on food safety often overlook crucial aspects beyond food waste and healthier eating habits.
Teodora Tompea stressed that food waste is a complex challenge that impacts resource efficiency and food security globally. She emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to address food waste, involving changes in consumer behavior, improvements in food production, packaging, and distribution. Each step taken to minimize waste contributes to a more sustainable and equitable food system.
The event featured experts from different sectors sharing their approaches and strategies to enhance food safety, ensure regulatory compliance, and address consumer needs. The discussions underscored the industry’s commitment to transparency, consumer education, and promoting healthier food choices.
Alexandru Bociu from ANSVSA highlighted Romania’s participation in the #Safe2EatEU campaign initiated by the European Authority for Food Safety. He emphasized the importance of ensuring food safety from farm to fork and the role of the National Veterinary and Food Safety Authority in analyzing and ensuring the safety of food products.
Daniela Voica, PhD, from Rompan, discussed the importance of maintaining food safety in the production of bakery products and the need to educate consumers on making informed food choices based on their lifestyle and dietary needs.
Dorin Cojocaru from APRIL emphasized the importance of hygiene in dairy production to ensure the quality and safety of milk products. He highlighted the need for consumer education on food safety and hygiene practices.
Emanuel Pârvulescu from Mega Image discussed the role of retailers in promoting food safety and healthy eating habits. He emphasized the importance of offering a variety of fruits and vegetables to consumers as part of a balanced diet.
Lidia Nica from Romalimenta highlighted the need for producers to reduce waste at every stage of production to ensure efficiency and sustainability. She emphasized the importance of finding environmentally friendly solutions to address food waste.
Octavian Paltanea from Carmistin International shared their approach to reducing food waste in meat production through integrated processes and circular economy practices. He emphasized the importance of quality control and customer trust in ensuring a quality product.
Gabriela Radulescu from Carrefour Romania discussed the retailer’s role in ensuring food safety and meeting consumer expectations. She highlighted the importance of food assurance and the company’s initiatives to promote food safety and sustainability.
Luka Zivkovic from Bonapp addressed operational challenges in the retail sector and emphasized the importance of productivity and implementation across the country to promote sustainability in the food industry.
Overall, the discussions at the #Safe2EatEU event highlighted the industry’s collaborative efforts to address food waste, promote food safety, and educate consumers on making informed food choices. The event underscored the interconnectedness of processes in the food industry and the importance of sustainability from production to consumption.