Transforming Waste into Value: Solution to Food Waste Management
A hidden challenge the food industry has is Waste. Every year millions of tons of food go to waste - making a drastic impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Did you know that according to the Global Hunger Index, India has 189.2 million undernourished people and also stands high in child malnutrition, stunting, wasting, and anaemia? This is a missed opportunity which can be handled by deciphering ways to transform this waste into value.
- Upcycling leftover ingredients
The leftover ingredients can be used to make new nutritious and delicious products. Like, having a granola bar made of leftover grains will not be harmful, right? Having chips made from leftover vegetable scraps also won’t taste bad. Many food companies have been taking initiatives towards managing food waste and increasing environmental value.
- Redistribution networks & food banks
Not all food waste takes place at home, a significant portion comes from restaurants and farms, here is where redistribution networks help. They collect the excess food from the suppliers and direct it to the communities in need. This is a great way to reduce the impact of food waste.
- Composting - a circular solution
When food waste cannot be redirected to people or upcycled, composting is an effective way to transform organic matter into nutrient-rich soil. Composting allows food scraps to transform into valuable resources for agriculture - helping to enrich the soil, retain water and support a sustainable food system. So, it is either way - either it will benefit undernourished people or it will contribute to the environment.
- Technology for smart food inventory management
Through AI and Machine Learning, businesses predict demand and manage inventory-related issues efficiently minimising overstock & reducing waste. Different applications like Winnow and Flashfood help to track the freshness of food, prevent overordering and discounts on food items which are close to their expiration. This data-driven process helps restaurants and stores to make better and more informed decisions.
By making conscious efforts to manage waste, We can move towards a future where every bite will truly count!
