Innovation Against Food Waste

24 March 2025

Innovation is playing a key role in the fight against food waste. Discover trends, the EU’s commitment, and case studies in this field.

What is Food Waste?

Food waste refers to the loss or disposal of food that could otherwise be consumed throughout the supply chain. This problem occurs at all stages, from production to consumption. According to the FAO, approximately one-third of all food produced globally is never consumed, which implies a significant loss of natural resources and a considerable environmental impact. Food waste contributes to climate change as decomposing food releases methane, a much more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

Food waste is a global concern, particularly in developed countries, where much of the waste occurs in households, and in developing countries, where losses are common at the production and distribution stages.

Why is Innovation Key in the Fight Against Food Waste?

Innovation has become a crucial tool in the fight against food waste. The urgent need to reduce environmental impacts, improve food security, and optimise the use of natural resources has driven the development of new technological solutions and business models. This trend has gained momentum in recent years due to several factors:

Environmental Awareness: The growing concern about climate change has made food waste not only an economic problem but also a significant environmental challenge. Innovation helps mitigate these effects.
Circular Economy: The transition to circular economy models is promoting a more sustainable approach where resources are not wasted but maximised.
Global Food Crisis: In a world where millions of people face hunger, wasting food is seen as an ethically problematic act. Innovation seeks to better utilise available food, improving distribution and reducing losses.

Innovation Trends to Combat Food Waste

Innovations in technology are playing a key role in reducing food waste worldwide. The solutions emerging not only improve efficiency in the supply chain but are also transforming consumer behaviour. Below are some of the most relevant trends:

1. Optimisation Technologies in the Food Supply Chain

The use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and blockchain is helping businesses predict food demand more accurately and manage inventory better, thus reducing waste. AI helps optimise production and distribution processes, while blockchain solutions provide traceability in the supply chain, ensuring that food is managed more efficiently.

2. Mobile Apps and Digital Platforms

Mobile applications are playing a vital role in reducing food waste. Too Good To Go, for example, is a platform that allows users to buy unsold food at reduced prices from restaurants and supermarkets. These apps not only help consumers reduce their own waste but also promote the redistribution of food to charitable organisations.

3. New Recycling and Food Valorisation Solutions

Another important trend is the use of new technologies to recycle and valorise surplus food. Companies like Karma have developed platforms to facilitate the redistribution of unsold food from restaurants and supermarkets at lower prices. Additionally, the food industry is using by-products, such as fruit and vegetable peels, to create new products, such as ingredients for baking or beverages.

The European Union’s Commitment to Reducing Food Waste

The European Union (EU) has taken a leading role in the fight against food waste. Through public policies and funding for innovative projects, the EU aims to halve food waste by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The EU’s initiatives include not only reducing waste but also promoting a more circular and sustainable economy.

Policy Strategies and Regulation

The EU has implemented several policies to promote the reduction of food waste. These include regulations that encourage the use of food approaching its expiry date, incentivising food donations, and raising public awareness about the importance of not wasting food. Furthermore, the Horizon Europe programme funds innovative projects seeking solutions to issues related to food waste, supporting research and the development of new technologies in this area.

Successful Cases in the Fight Against Food Waste

There are various examples of successful innovation in the fight against food waste. Some of the most notable cases include:

1. European Food Bank Federation

The European Food Bank Federation has been a pioneer in redistributing unsold food to those in need. This organisation collaborates with businesses and other entities to ensure that surplus food does not go to waste but reaches those who need it most. This model has been successful in reducing waste while also tackling food insecurity.

2. Unilever and Innovation in the Food Industry

Unilever, one of the largest companies in the food sector, has implemented multiple initiatives to reduce food waste in its operations. Through improvements in its manufacturing and distribution processes, the company has significantly reduced food waste in its supply chain.

3. Tesco and Surplus Food Redistribution

Tesco, one of the largest retailers in the UK, has implemented an effective system for donating food nearing its expiry date to charitable organisations. This initiative not only helps reduce waste but also supports thousands of vulnerable people.

Find Opportunities on Kaila to Combat Food Waste

In the Kaila platform, you can find a wide range of resources related to food waste that will allow you to connect with innovators and access key opportunities. Currently, the platform offers 8689 results on this topic, which include:

This tool is ideal for those seeking to collaborate, fund, or learn more about innovative initiatives to reduce food waste.

Conclusion

Innovation against food waste is playing a crucial role in creating a more sustainable future. Thanks to the efforts of the European Union, emerging technologies, and new business models, significant progress is being made towards reducing food waste. As global awareness of this problem grows, it is essential for both businesses and consumers to adopt new practices and technologies to maximise food utilisation and contribute to the planet’s sustainability.

Innovation, alongside the commitment of key actors such as the EU, is proving that it is possible to effectively reduce food waste, promoting a circular economy and more efficient use of resources.