Since the inaugural Earth Day in 1970, there has been a growing awareness of the impact of modern practices on the environment, and as the world population grows, so does the produce industry.
As time passes, it becomes more crucial for industry stakeholders to assume accountability for minimizing and eradicating food waste that falls within their jurisdiction.
According to worldwildlife.org, one third of all food produced in the world goes to waste. Along with that waste goes all the resources utilized in the production and transportation of the food products.
Minimizing food waste within the produce supply chain can pose a challenge, particularly due to the multiple intermediaries involved in the journey from farm to table. Nonetheless, as wholesalers, there are various measures that can be implemented to help reduce wastage.
- Improve inventory management: It is important to have an accurate inventory forecast that helps avoid over-ordering and spoilage of products due to prolonged storage in warehouses. This can be achieved through the use of inventory management systems that facilitate the implementation of a first-in, first-out approach while monitoring seasonal, monthly, and weekly trends.
- Enforce food safety protocols: Maintaining appropriate handling and storage practices for produce is not only essential for ensuring consumer safety but also crucial for preserving the shelf life of the products and ultimately minimizing the incidence of spoilage.
- Education: Educating staff on proper product handling techniques, including maintaining optimal temperatures, promptly addressing any contamination issues to prevent its spread, and practicing proper hygiene during food handling, is crucial. It is also important to keep consumers informed on safe product consumption practices, such as properly cleaning produce and storing it in the appropriate location to help extend its shelf life and ensure its safe consumption.
Taking these actions is not only important for ensuring consumer safety and reducing business losses but also for promoting the overall health of our planet. By minimizing food waste, we can directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve fresh water resources, which has a positive impact on the environment.
As the global population continues to grow and the food industry expands, it is essential to prioritize the reduction of food waste. The production and transportation of food require significant resources, which are ultimately wasted when the food is discarded. It is up to industry contributors to take responsibility for managing and eliminating as much food waste as possible. Implementing strategies such as improving inventory management, implementing food safety protocols, and educating staff and consumers can all contribute to the minimization of waste in the produce supply chain. By taking proactive measures to reduce waste, we can work together towards a more sustainable and efficient food system.
At Bonsai Produce BB #:271139, we are committed to simplifying our clients’ needs and providing them with faster access to the products they require. As part of these efforts, we are striving to adopt a more sustainable business model that benefits both our clients and the environment.
About Bonsai Produce & Distribution
Bonsai Produce & Distribution is an Atlanta, GA based produce distributor that specializes in supplying high-quality fresh produce to foodservice distributors, and wholesalers throughout the United States. Through a vast network of growers across all U.S. regions, and a combined 50 years of produce experience, Bonsai Produce strives to enrich the buying experience with a ‘whatever it takes’ attitude in sourcing over 100 commodities in a multitude of varieties, sizes, and packings. Founder and CEO, Joel Ferrara, believes that Bonsai Produce is greater than the products it sells – it is also the services it provides. Putting the customer at the forefront of its operations ensures an ever-evolving customer experience tailored to fit their needs.
Kelly Shawkat, Marketing Director at Bonsai Produce & Distribution
