THE ROLE OF PACKAGING IN LOGISTICS PROCESSES - IMPACT ON SUSTAINABLE LOGISTICS IN THE FOOD SECTOR

Packaging is one of the main factors of logistics. Its primary roles are protection, preservation, traceability, profitability, convenience / practicality and presentation, while its secondary roles are handling, containment (safety containers), identification, labelling and suitability. A wide range of regulatory measures, high standards and the correct handling of food in logistics processes ensure that food is delivered safely from the producer to the consumer. The essential role of packaging in logistics is to provide products with the necessary protection during storage and transport and to reduce costs. Packaging has a positive impact on product distribution and safety, particularly in the food industry, where it increases shelf life, facilitates transportation and helps to save costs. By carefully arranging and packaging the products in suitable packaging, the available space can be used optimally. This article presents the role of packaging in logistics processes such as transport, storage, loading and packaging of food with an explicit focus on sustainability. A case study shows the example of the overseas logistics chain of the avocado, a type of food with very high CO2 release and high water consumption. The status of the green logistics and further requirements for companies and consumers is demonstrated.