There is a huge amount of food waste which is contributed by both households and enterprises. While this problem can be attributed to a number of factors, it can be alleviated in various ways.
One of the main reasons for increasing food waste is unrealistic aesthetic standards for products. Approximately 40% of food waste happens at the retail level, where supermarkets discard perfectly edible products that fail to meet cosmetic standards or approach arbitrary expiration dates. Take tomatoes as an example. Most people try to opt fresh and shiny red tomatoes, while slightly squashed and unattractive but still within in their expiry date ones often remain unsold in stores. Generating large portion sizes of meals can be another contributing factor. A lot of restaurants and food service establishments produce massive waste through considerable portion sizes. Some part of leftover food of each client can be still consumable. However, they are prohibited donating regarding to liability concerns by policies.
However, there are several ways by which the problem can be addressed. One effective measure is donation of surplus food and smart packaging. Legislation of prohibiting donation should be relaxed in terms of diverting unsold fresh products to hungry families. Before accomplish this plan, creating smart packages that are accurately indicate freshness would be a clever step. It can reduce premature disposal. A further solution is using food-saving apps. Technology applications like “Too Good to Go” connect consumers with restaurants offering discounted surplus food. It is beneficial for individuals in a financial and economical way.
In conclusion, the main drivers of the issue are significant cosmetic standards for goods and big portion sizes in services. However, it can be resolved effectively once the measure suggested are taken, such as legal permission for donation and use of modern food-preserving apps.