Food rescue, also called food recovery, is the practice of collecting fresh, edible food that would have otherwise gone to waste from restaurants, grocers, and other food establishments and distributing it to local social service agencies.
Food rescue is extremely effective because it simultaneously gets food to those who need it most and reduces food waste, minimizing the amount of toxic emissions from food waste in landfills.
In the United States this year, it is estimated that 42 million people will experience food insecurity while we throw away 40% of our food supply. At a time when there is so much hunger and we are experiencing the effects of climate change firsthand, we are throwing away the very food that could feed those in need and reduce its impact on climate change. This is where Food Rescue comes in.
The expression “waste not, want not” is as old as our country. Generations of parents have used it, or some variation, to impart a lesson in thrift. The organization Food Rescue US embraces the concept by making good on its name–rescuing food–in 23 states. Armies of volunteers collect unsold surplus food from farmer’s markets, supermarkets, and restaurants to fill the larders that provide free meals and/or groceries to those in need.
We are fortunate to participate in the Food Rescue – DC network. Over the past year, ACCA has received surplus food from Whole Foods, Target, and Panera and then turned around and provided that food to local families. In addition to Whole Foods providing a variety of groceries, it often includes hygiene products to be rescued.
Here is a summary of our food rescues in 2024:
- 49 rescues
- 11,849 total pounds
- 9,875 total meals
These impressive stats conjure images of fresh bread, meats, and a wide array of produce. The system to rescue mouth-watering surplus begins when ACCA is alerted; In our case, we have a regular pickup at the Whole Foods in Tysons Boro. Then volunteers are dispatched to retrieve it and bring it to ACCA’s pantry. Soon after, it is distributed to clients.
Food rescue is satisfying for two reasons. It helps minimize hunger. It is also an environmentally friendly pursuit. It’s best summed up by a slogan on a Food Rescue US t-shirt: “Fill plates. Not landfills.” ACCA finds it fulfilling to participate in this movement.
Interested in helping? Consider volunteering with Food Rescue – US, they have opportunities in the Metro DC area and scheduling is very flexible. Find out more about becoming a Food Rescuer.