A War Against Food Waste

A food industry alliance is planning a three-year initiative to reduce the tremendous amount of food that Americans still throw in the garbage even as they grow somewhat more conscientious about recycling paper and yard trimmings.

The effort, announced by the Grocery Manufacturers Association, an alliance of food, beverage and packaging makers, aims both to reduce the amount of food sent to landfills and to increase donations to food banks for the poor. The effort is being carried out and financed in concert with the Food Marketing Institute.

A substantial portion of food is thrown away while still fully edible because of cosmetic blemishes or overstocking. The manufacturers association acknowledges that changing consumer habits will be a challenge. “This is not a problem that will be solved in three years,” said Meghan Stasz, a sustainability consultant for the group.

To read the rest of the story, please go to: New York Times