Data plays a key role in creating a more sustainable food supply chain. By collecting and analyzing the right information, food producers can find weak spots, cut waste, and lower emissions.
Once companies have accurate data, they can take focused steps to reduce their environmental impact. Tracking emissions, using reliable sources, and knowing the difference between data types all help build a stronger foundation for greener decisions.
Bringing data tools into daily operations makes it easier for teams to align their choices with sustainability goals. Turning raw data into real action is not just helpful—it’s essential for building a better, more responsible food system.
Understanding Data Types
Primary data—also called foreground data—comes directly from sources like suppliers, factories, lab tests, or customers. For example, companies may track energy use or survey transport methods. This hands-on approach ensures the data is specific, reliable, and highly relevant to a product’s true environmental impact.
Primary data also enables more accurate emissions tracking and better control over the data collection process. While it can be time-consuming or costly, the insights gained often justify the effort. Direct supplier collaboration may be necessary, but it builds a stronger, more transparent foundation.
On the other hand, secondary data—also known as background data—is collected by others and found in databases, reports, or research papers. It’s quicker and cheaper to access, making it useful when primary data isn’t available. However, it’s often less specific, which may affect the precision of results.
Powering Decisions with Algorithms
Algorithms bring structure to raw data. They take raw inputs—like production data and emission factors—process them through a series of rules and produce meaningful results. Think of them as engines that rely on primary and secondary data as fuel.
When algorithms process detailed product-level data, they provide deeper insights. This accuracy helps food producers detect impact hotspots and make smarter, targeted improvements. The result? More informed decisions and greater visibility across the supply chain.
Integrated data doesn’t just improve analysis—it sparks innovation. Companies that understand their product lifecycle can find new ways to reduce impact, whether by switching materials, improving logistics, or designing for reuse. Smart data leads to smarter, greener solutions.
Opteinics: Driving Smarter Decisions
Opteinics is an LCA engine that turns raw data into actionable strategies. It combines both primary and secondary data to assess 16 impact categories, from human health to resource use. Fully aligned with ISO standards and global frameworks, it helps users see the full picture of their product and supply chain impact.
With Opteinics, companies can boost efficiency, improve transparency, and support climate action—all while strengthening their business. From farm to table, smarter decisions start with the right data.
