Did you know that food is the largest component of material placed in municipal landfills? According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, between 30 and 40 percent of all food in the United States is wasted annually – food that could otherwise feed the hungry and reduce food insecurity. Not only that, but rotting food is the largest producer or greenhouse gases in landfills, specifically methane.
In an effort to reduce food waste, it is important for consumers to understand that manufacturers provide dating to help determine when food is of best quality. Except for infant formula, dates are not an indicator of the product’s safety and are not required by federal law, so consumers should “smell test” any food or drink that is in question before tossing it out.
In Granville County Public Schools, Child Nutrition departments are now practicing strategies such as “Offer versus Serve,” which reduces the amount of food that is otherwise wasted. Alternative food options are also provided in different packaging to spark an interest in trying new foods. In turn, good habits are being developed and encouraged among students and staff.
Separating recyclables in school cafeterias and within other areas of the schools has also proved to be effective. By implementing food waste diversion, schools can reduce a trash pickup day, save money on trash can liners, and reduce the weight of materials taken to the dumpster. Even more money can be saved if food waste is kept separate from the trash and sent to a commercial compost facility, instead of to the landfill.
To learn more about food diversion, contact Teresa Baker, Recycle and Sustainability Coordinator for Granville County and Granville County Public Schools, at 919-725-1417 or at bakertd@gcs.k12.nc.us. Baker is also available for presentations to local groups and organizations.