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Reducing food waste in your business

Learn why food waste is an important issue and how to reduce it.

Food waste is not just an issue for businesses directly dealing with food, it's one of the biggest environmental problems we face. Not only that, but the government's new simpler recycling policy means your business may need to change how you deal with food waste – and you’ll need to reduce it where you can.

What is food waste?

Food waste is food intended for human consumption that is wasted and lost. This includes food unfinished at restaurants or thrown out at home. It also includes raw materials and produce lost during farming, harvesting, transportation, and storage. Food waste can occur anywhere throughout the entire supply chain.

Why is it important?

Food waste generates 8% of human-caused greenhouse gases annually. As well as contributing to climate change, it impacts the planet’s resources and biodiversity – adding up to a big problem. By reducing food waste, you help the environment; but it benefits businesses and society too. By taking steps to reduce food waste, your business can:

  • Save money: By reducing food waste, you can lower the costs of purchasing, storing, and getting rid of excess food.
  • Boost your reputation: Embracing sustainable practices improves your reputation among environmentally conscious consumers, resulting in happier, loyal customers - and more of them.
  • Reduce your carbon footprint: Food production requires a lot of water, energy, and land. By minimising food waste, businesses help to look after these valuable resources and reduce their carbon footprint.
  • Make a social impact: Donating excess food to those in need can help local communities and is a great example of corporate social responsibility.

What do I need to do?

Here are our tips to reduce food waste:

What next?

By implementing these simple yet effective measures, businesses can minimise their environmental food impact, save money, and contribute to a food-secure future for all.

If you would like to improve sustainability in your business, we offer further advice, tools and guidance to reduce your environmental impact.