After doing some research, it is comforting to know that Canada actually has a plan to reduce food waste. Unfortunately, we often see a lot of good food go to waste because it’s “ugly” shape or simply discarded when they just pass their expired date!
Food Waste Reduction Ideas
Food Loss and Waste Strategy for Canada plans to cut food waste by half by 2030.
“The report recommendations, broadly supported by a diverse range of stakeholders, include:
Save Our Food
First, one of the easiest to observe is the switch over to more “best before” date labelling from the “expired” date labelling. Consumers are very sensitive to the word “expired”. This word leads them to believe that they can’t eat food product that reaches the “expired” date. Hence, it immediately turns into poison. The consumer thinks that they need to dispose of it into the nearest compost! However, ironically, the food is usually still edible!
Furthermore, constant and better inventory management at supermarkets and grocery stores can also helps to reduce food waste. By enabling the stores to find close to “best before” date products quicker, they can be dealt with sooner. Then, the business can make the decision to put the product on discount. Therefore, consumers can save some money and clear out the merchandise.
Most importantly, is to update the guidelines and reduce the many obstacles towards food donations to charitable organizations. This means more and more food can be donated to charities. So, people in need can benefit from this collaboration!
