Food waste is a major problem in the world that is continually growing - with an estimated 1.3 billion tons of food being wasted every year. This waste not only represents a loss of valuable resources but also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental issues. Fortunately, technology is playing an increasingly important role in reducing food waste. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the ways that technology is being used to address this issue.
Photo Credit: Yura Fresh
App
Smartphone apps are one of the most popular ways that technology is being used to reduce food waste. These apps help consumers to plan their meals, track their food inventory, and find recipes that use up leftover ingredients. Some of the most popular food waste reduction apps include:
- Olio: This app allows users to share surplus food with their neighbours. Users can list items they no longer need, and others in the local community can request them.
Sensors
Sensors are another technology that is being used to reduce food waste. These sensors can be placed in refrigerators, freezers, and other storage areas to monitor food inventory and alert users when items are nearing their expiration date. Some sensors can even track the temperature and humidity levels in storage areas to ensure that food is being stored properly.
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One company that is using sensors to reduce food waste is BlakBear. Their sensors monitor the temperature and humidity levels in commercial kitchens, helping chefs to reduce food spoilage and maintain food safety. The data collected by these sensors can also be used to optimize kitchen operations and reduce energy usage.
Photo Credit: Jason Goodman
Other Innovations
In addition to apps and sensors, there are many other innovative technologies being used to reduce food waste. For example:
- Food Recovery Network: This organization uses technology to connect college dining halls with local food banks, ensuring that surplus food is donated to those in need.
- Apeel Sciences: This company has developed a natural coating for fruits and vegetables that extends their shelf life, reducing food waste and helping to ensure that fresh produce is available for longer.
- Winnow Solutions: This company has developed a system that uses machine learning to analyze food waste in commercial kitchens. By identifying the most commonly wasted items, chefs can adjust their menus and reduce waste.
Photo Credit: Kendall Ruth
Food waste is a complex problem that requires a multifaceted solution. Fortunately, technology is playing an increasingly important role in reducing food waste, from apps that help consumers plan meals to sensors that monitor food inventory. With continued innovation and investment in these technologies, we can hope to see a significant reduction in food waste in the years to come.