We Americans are pretty wasteful. And much of what we squander is food.
America throws away an estimated 40 to 50 percent of all the food it produces. That more than $100 billion of food a year. Equally important, there are millions of hungry Americans (more than 38 million) who could put some of that to use. Wasted food affects our culture, economy and environment. And when food remains are sent to landfills, we’re squandering a potential source of energy (I’ll talk more about that later).
I became interested in this topic when I saw just how much edible food–previously bound for the dumpster–a Washington, D.C. homeless shelter recovered from restaurants and institutions. Then I realized how much food wasn’t saved. As a journalist, I began to do some digging. More than a year later, I’m now doing research for a book on the topic.
In the coming months, I’ll be keeping this blog as a companion to my explorations. I aim to make this site a way to follow a work-in-progress book project. Stop by anytime to read the latest anecdotes, data and revelations. And I hope you’ll feel free to comment and participate. Otherwise, it’d be a real waste.
Stumble it! | Posted in General |
Great topic– good luck with the research! As with most things the US, we have no absolute shortage of food. We simply have grossly inefficient and unequal means of distributing things. I hope that, in addition to “in the kitchen” tips, you will develop some sort of food strategy for a country that is largely clueless on distributing anything with intelligence and equity.
Thanks for your interest, Rich. You’re right, America produces about twice the amount of calories needed per person. That’s part of why many feel they can afford to waste food.
Indeed, I’m working on tips for all areas of the food chain. I hope you’ll check back here to read on all areas of the topic.
Thanks for sharing