Nowadays, consumers are increasingly looking for ways to save time, money, and reduce their environmental impact. One simple yet powerful solution is right in your freezer: frozen food. According to a recent survey by Nomad Foods, nearly half of European consumers are choosing frozen products to help cut down on food waste. But how exactly does frozen food contribute to a more sustainable food system?
The Food Waste Crisis in Europe
Food waste is a massive issue across Europe. The European Consumer Organisation reports that nearly 59 million tonnes of food are wasted annually in the EU. This waste isn’t just about spoiled leftovers—it represents a loss of valuable resources like water, land, fuel, and labor. Worse still, when food ends up in landfills, it decomposes and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Frozen Food: A Simple Solution with Big Impact
Frozen food offers a practical way to combat this problem. By preserving food for longer periods, consumers can avoid spoilage and reduce the frequency of throwing away unused items. This means fewer trips to the store, less impulse buying, and more efficient meal planning.
As Ben Ashmore from FareShare explains, “By redistributing surplus food to people, and making it longer-lasting through freezing, we can help reduce food waste and the associated emissions, while helping people in need.”
Sustainability Is Driving Consumer Choices
Nomad Foods’ ‘Frozen in Focus’ report reveals that sustainability is becoming a key factor in how people shop. The freezer is no longer just a storage space—it’s a tool for living more efficiently and responsibly.
- UK: 60% of consumers prefer frozen food for waste reduction.
- Italy: 50%
- France: 49%
- Germany: 44%
- Sweden: 43%
While fewer consumers explicitly link frozen food to broader sustainability goals, awareness is growing. For example, 15% of Swedes and 9% of Brits recognize frozen food’s role in building a more sustainable food chain.
The Environmental Benefits of Freezing
When food is frozen, it retains its nutritional value and freshness without the need for preservatives. This not only reduces waste but also minimizes the carbon footprint associated with food production and transportation.
David Pettet, Head of Sustainability at Nomad Foods, puts it well: “Freezing food isn’t just about convenience; it’s a powerful tool for preserving freshness, maximizing resources, and building a more sustainable food system.”
Rethinking Freezer Temperatures for Energy Efficiency
Freezers themselves are under the sustainability spotlight. Traditionally set at -18°C, new research suggests that -15°C is just as effective for most products and can reduce energy consumption by up to 10%.
The Move to -15°C Coalition, launched at COP28, aims to reset frozen food temperature standards across supply chains. A study by Campden BRI and Nomad Foods supports this shift, showing no significant change in product quality at the higher temperature.
Frozen Food: A Win for Consumers and the Planet
Choosing frozen food isn’t just about convenience—it’s a conscious decision that supports a more sustainable lifestyle. It helps:
- Reduce food waste
- Save money
- Cut down on greenhouse gas emissions
- Support efficient food supply chains
Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent managing a household, or someone looking to make eco-friendly choices, frozen food offers a smart, accessible way to make a difference.
Moreover, instead of buying frozen food at the supermarket, an even smarter choice is preparing your own food and frozen it. You will save more money!
What do you think about this swap to frozen food to save money, reduce waste, and support a healthier planet? Share your opinion with me in the comments box here below.
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Crisbie Coach 