source reduction

Rethink and reduce

When reducing food waste, the highest impact can be achieved through prevention, or creating better systems and channels for inventory control, doing audits to discover what is not being used, creative ingredient use, and more. At home, this means meal planning and shopping with a list. In commercial kitchens, this could mean offering smaller portions or installing devices that quickly alert management in case of equipment failure. Prevention strategies allow individuals and others to create systems that are more efficient while maintaining quality standards and enjoyment of food. To further source reduction efforts in Memphis, the Memphis Food Waste Project is:

Launching an education and awareness campaign via social media called #901SaveTheFood
Performing food waste audits with Shelby County Schools
Clarifying policies around share tables in Shelby County Schools
Developing a food waste education program with students and teachers in Shelby County Schools
Exploring best practices from other districts and municipalities for reducing food waste
Advocating for a waste characterization study and regional solid waste plan