Local foodservice businesses, such as restaurants and cafes are being asked to make use of their end-of-day surplus food to help feed people rather than depositing to landfill.

The initiative launched by Foodbank, Australia’s largest food relief organisation, and Y Waste, the discounted meals app, makes it easy for businesses to put surplus food to good use.

The initiative is now being rolled out across the Northern Rivers following the successful trial of the concept. “This is an innovative program to reduce food waste and hunger, so we are encouraging Ballina Coast and Hinterland food businesses to get involved.” said Ballina Shire Council’s Waste Education Officer, Samala Heart.  “Why waste good food when it can help those most in need in our community.”

If your business wants to be involved, the registration process takes only a few minutes, the ‘Y Waste’ app takes care of notifications, receipts and is free to use with no contract or minimum term.

“By using the Y Waste app, businesses can easily offer their unsold food to be collected by people in need. Then Foodbank works with local charities to make sure it gets to people that are in need of assistance.

This is one of those initiatives that delivers multiple benefits, it helps businesses save on waste disposal, it helps genuine people facing hardship and our environment benefits from less landfill.” added Ms Heart

To register your business or for more information, visit www.foodbank.org.au/y-waste.