Viewpoint: How can technology help in food waste reduction?

Mike Szczesny

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of Food Management.

With everyone talking about the problem of food waste worldwide, its effects are reaching way beyond just the food industry. Sectors like airlines and hospitality are feeling the impact, too. As these industries face the huge financial and environmental consequences of wasting food, finding smart solutions has become a big priority. But guess what? Modern technology is becoming a valuable ally in this fight, bringing fresh and clever ideas to tackle the challenge head-on.

Reducing food waste is a big deal for two important reasons: it helps save money and takes care of our planet. This matters a lot to folks working in food services outside big restaurants. Let’s take airlines, for example – they serve food on flights, and believe it or not, they're also trying hard to cut down on food waste, just like restaurants do.

The role of technology in mitigating food waste

Facing these challenges, technology steps up as a key teammate in the fight against food waste. While old-school methods like spreadsheets can do the trick, we've got something fancier nowadays. Think about all those apps you see everywhere. You know the saying, "There's an app for that"? It also applies to tackling food waste, even though these solutions might not be obvious to most people. It's like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

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One technology that has the potential to make a significant impact is the use of intelligent labels. When incorporated into food packaging, these labels can provide real-time information about the freshness and quality of the product. By utilizing sensors and data analysis algorithms, intelligent labels can accurately determine the state of the food, alerting consumers and retailers when it is nearing its expiration date or has passed its optimal freshness. This can help individuals and businesses better manage their inventory, reducing the likelihood of food waste.

The impact of technology on college campus cafeterias

Consider the scenario of a college campus cafeteria catering to thousands of students daily. Predicting food demand becomes intricate due to changing dietary preferences and the advent of food delivery services. This complex equation necessitates innovative approaches.

One approach that has gained traction is the collection of both pre- and post-consumer food waste from students participating in the recycling and composting sorting process in cafeterias. This encourages students to become more conscious of their food consumption and promotes sustainable practices within the campus environment. Research has shown that with increased enrollment, college campuses experience increases in food waste generated.

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The rise of the "Digital Cafeteria" app

Enter the concept of a "digital cafeteria," a pioneering app-based system tailored to noncommercial food service professionals. This technological solution enables comprehensive trend analysis of popular and less popular menu items. Furthermore, it empowers students to pre-order meals, facilitating precise data collection and customization.

In addition to the intelligent labels and the "digital cafeteria" app, other technological advancements can further help reduce food waste. One such advancement is using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze data and predict food demand more accurately. By analyzing factors such as historical consumption patterns, weather conditions, and current trends, AI can provide valuable insights to cafeteria managers, allowing them to adjust their food production accordingly and minimize overproduction.

Modern technology emerges as a powerful ally across various sectors, from airlines to college campus cafeterias. Leveraging intelligent labels, predictive apps, and data-driven insights, industries are finding innovative ways to tackle this critical issue. As we witness the rise of smarter solutions and digital strategies, it's clear that technology holds the key to reducing food waste and creating a more sustainable and efficient future for our finances and the planet. By embracing these tech-driven initiatives, we pave the way for a world where waste is minimized, resources are optimized, and our collective efforts lead to a healthier, more responsible tomorrow.

Mike Szczesny is the owner and vice president of EDCO Awards & Specialties, a dedicated supplier of employee recognition products, branded merchandise, crystal awards, and athletic awards.