Tetra Pak addresses changing consumption dynamics through innovation in South Africa

TETRA PAK South Africa managing director, Klaus Plenge, has underscored the imperative for food manufacturers to innovate amidst mounting sustainability demands and a heightened focus on food safety.

- TAWANDA KAROMBO

Following a series of alarming food poisoning incidents, particularly impacting young children, the conversation around food safety has reached a new crescendo in South Africa.

Tetra Pak suppliers food packaging and processing material in South Africa and Southern African countries such as Zimbabwe.

In a recent interview with Business Report, Plenge said that food safety was now a top concern for local food processors.

"We have a very young population and a growing need for food in the region with changing demand dynamics that also pose challenges and opportunities for companies," Plenge said.

"People are eager to have safe food and to have it available... what we need to make sure is that the packaging can give that safety and extend the shelf life."

This was also driving innovation in packaging and processing, with Tetra Pak now manufacturing about 90% of its packaging materials in South Africa and exporting into the region.