Nomad Foods plans to alter freezer temperatures to reduce energy consumption.
- A pilot study indicates a 3°C increase can cut freezer energy by over 10%.
- The study was in collaboration with Campden BRI, testing nine product types.
- Results showed no noticeable effects on food quality or safety at -15°C.
- The initiative aims to lower costs and the carbon footprint industry-wide.
Nomad Foods, known for brands like Birds Eye, has announced plans to increase freezer storage temperatures by 3°C. This decision stems from a pilot study indicating potential energy reductions exceeding 10% without any changes required to product formulation. The change involves storing frozen foods at -15°C instead of the standard -18°C, promising substantial energy savings across their operations.
The study, executed in partnership with Campden BRI, a leader in food science and technology, was conducted over a six-month period. It examined temperature impacts on nine products, ranging from poultry to plant-based foods. Despite testing temperatures as high as -9°C, negligible changes in food quality were observed at -15°C, although minor sensory changes were noticed in mixed vegetables at -9°C and salmon fillets at -12°C.
Nomad Foods’ Chief Executive, Stéfan Descheemaeker, commented on the pilot study’s results, stating it has the potential to significantly trim energy usage for frozen products without necessitating reformulation. He highlights the broader implications for industry cost reduction and carbon footprint minimisation, expressing eagerness to collaborate with retail partners and industry stakeholders to implement these findings on a larger scale.
According to Emma Hanby, Associate Director at Campden BRI, the pilot confirmed that increasing storage temperatures to -15°C can indeed cut energy usage without compromising product safety or quality. The comprehensive study deployed an array of analytical, instrumental, and sensory panel techniques to ensure data robustness and regulatory compliance within Europe.
Last year, Nomad Foods reported significant sales growth despite a 10% hike in prices to manage increasing production costs. This innovative approach to freezer temperature management represents a forward-thinking strategy to mitigate both operational costs and environmental impact.
Nomad Foods’ innovative temperature adjustment strategy promises significant energy savings and reduced environmental impact for the frozen food sector.
