Cologne: 09.–13.10.2027 #weareAnuga

EN Icon Pfeil Icon Pfeil
EN Element 13300 Element 12300 DE
Circularity & Regeneration

Resource-efficient cycles instead of linearity

The classic, linear "take-make-dispose" value chain is increasingly being replaced by circular food systems. The aim is to make food production more sustainable by keeping used resources in the cycle as much as possible. That means less out-of-date food and less packaging waste as well as a lower carbon footprint. Regenerative agriculture supports this approach by concentrating on soil regeneration, especially soil life and biodiversity.

Current developments and trends in the circularity & regeneration section

Innovative packaging:


More and more edible packaging is being produced, for example films made from algae or compostable alternatives like coffee mugs made from coffee grounds.

Residual material utilisation:


Waste from the production of food is reused in a meaningful manner, for example as animal feed.

CO2 reduction:


The CO2 consumption is reduced considerably through closed cycles and more efficient resource usage.

Supply chain optimisation:


Processes are designed in circular food systems along the entire value chain to preserve resources and reduce emissions.

Circularity not only reduces environmental impacts, it also opens up new business models. Companies that invest early in regenerative approaches gain a competitive edge, both in terms of the cost and regarding their own brand image. Examples of best practice will be showcased on the Anuga HORIZON Stage and innovative trends in regenerative production will be discussed.

FAQ: Circularity & Regeneration

What distinguishes circularity from classic recycling strategies?

Classic recycling starts with the end product. Circularity relies on an holistic approach and takes the entire life cycle of a product into account from the outset so the materials and products can be used as long as possible and the amount of waste is reduced.

What best practices exist for circular food production?

Using residual materials such as shells or meal that is not used when processing certain foodstuffs as animal feed or for the production of biogas is worth mentioning here. A further example is innovative packaging such as edible packaging made from algae.

How does technology support regenerative processes?

Technology supports regenerative processes by creating transparency and making resources more efficiently implementable. For example, sensors provide real-time data on soil, water and plants, AI optimises cultivation and processing processes so that waste can be reduced and cycles closed.

Future outlook

Circularity and the circular economy will become increasingly important in the coming years. Resource scarcity demands innovative strategies for transforming food waste into valuable raw materials that can be utilised again within the industry.


Discover more focus topics now

Health & Functional Food

AI & Deep Tech

Future Food & Innovation

Our magazine

The digital magazine offers best practice examples, business insights and trends on current topics, as well as articles on innovations in the food industry.

Go to all articles