Food Justice: Food Waste In Denver
- Erin Casey
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
By Jonathan Tavira and Katherine Rodriguez (High School Interns)
Food waste is starting to become a problem. Companies often prefer to discard food rather than donate it to those in need. Companies have even called the police or fired staff who have taken food marked for the trash. Thankfully, there are mutual aid groups whose mission is to reclaim good food that was thrown out. They cook it and serve it to community members who are unhoused, and/or enjoy communal meals.
Seeing these big companies throw out food in perfect condition is devastating. Many are in need and don’t have the resources to provide for themselves, and it’s heartbreaking to know that there are many ways to help those in need, yet big corporations prioritize profit over helping those in need. While these companies throw away large amounts of food, many dumpster dive to feed themselves. While it is viewed as unsanitary, it’s a main way people feed themselves.
A big example is Dunkin' Donuts. Dunkin' franchises generate food waste, particularly in unsold donuts, due to their 24-hour shelf life. Spoiled or over-purchased ingredients can also contribute to waste.
A former Dunkin' employee's viral TikTok video showcased hundreds of donuts being thrown away at closing time on a slow day, suggesting substantial waste across the chain.
Thankfully, Dunkin’ has implemented waste reduction programs like the End-of-Day Donation Program and composting. These efforts aim to minimize financial loss and environmental impact while supporting communities and promoting a more sustainable business model for the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry.
Another example is Nestlé, which in 2021 was reported to have wasted the most food, amounting to approximately 1,570 tonnes. Nestle itself stated, “Our long-term goal is to stop food waste. Nestle is making progress by preventing, minimizing, and reusing waste through innovations in agriculture…” Fortunately, they have been improving through “technological and educational initiatives designed to help reduce food loss and waste” and by “...working alongside farmers, agricultural scientists, researchers and non-profit organizations…”
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