Food and beverage companies increase investment in wastewater treatment

Food and beverage companies are increasingly prioritizing wastewater treatment and water management as key components of their business operations and sustainability goals. Companies such as Barilla, Lamb Weston, and Pilgrim’s Pride are investing significant resources into water reuse and wastewater solutions.

Barilla reported recovering more than 16 million gallons of water between 2022 and 2024 at its Rubbiano plant in Italy through advanced recycling solutions. Lamb Weston has announced plans to invest $100 million, representing approximately 20% of its expected capital expenditures, into environmental projects focused on wastewater treatment. Additionally, Pilgrim’s Pride is working to convert methane and biogas from wastewater streams into renewable natural gas at its facility in Sumter, South Carolina.

In the horticulture and agri-food sectors, the industry focus is shifting from the initial implementation of water treatment technology toward long-term performance management. Experts note that maintaining consistent water quality, managing energy and chemical costs, and ensuring facility reliability over time are critical to preventing operational risks and maintaining crop productivity.