With the imminent implementation of European regulations on traceability and digital passports, the food industry will need to reinforce its commitment to packaging safety, transparency and sustainability. In this context, wooden packaging offers a natural, safe solution with the flexibility to meet new regulatory standards.
Digital passport: the identity of the packaging
The Spanish Federation of Wood Packaging and its Components (FEDEMCO) has taken another step forward in innovation with its digital passport for wooden packaging. Accessible via a unique QR code on each box, this tool allows immediate access to key information on traceability, sustainability, recyclability, food safety and certifications such as ECOWOOX®, GROW®, and others such as FSC or PEFC.
The initiative not only facilitates regulatory compliance but also brings tangible benefits for the entire industry and the end consumer. “The digital passport reinforces trust in the supply chain, offering consumers direct access to the most relevant information,” explains Emilio J. Pérez, CEO of FEDEMCO. “A QR code on a wooden container provides transparency about origin, sustainability and recyclability, enabling consumers to make more informed and responsible choices,” he adds.
Pilot phase with industry support
After a first semester focused on forming a multidisciplinary team together with the technological partners who developed the digital platform, the project is now in its pilot phase. Unanimously approved at FEDEMCO’s general assembly, the digital passport is already being designed with input from several companies in the sector. “Companies see regulations as a challenge, but also as an opportunity for differentiation,” says Pérez. “More than 80% of fruit and vegetable packaging in Spain and Portugal already holds ECOWOOX® certification and can now highlight this to the end consumer.”
To make the transition to this new digital phase simpler and more effective at every stage, FEDEMCO will provide technical support, training materials, and a practical guide for the entire value chain.
The project has been selected as eligible for subsidies under the Reindustrialization Strategy of the Valencian Community 2024–2028 and will benefit from support for sectoral associations within the INENTI program of the Ministry of Innovation, Industry, Commerce and Tourism.
FEDEMCO at Fruit Attraction
Industry professionals who wish to strengthen transparency, safety and sustainability in the supply chain are invited to visit the Spanish federation’s stand at Fruit Attraction: Hall 3, Stand 3B23.