Councils champion Food Waste Action Week

This year's campaign focuses on empowering households to reduce food waste by embracing the simple act of buying loose fruit and vegetables. Food Waste Action Week, the flagship annual event from WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste, aims to equip individuals with practical tools to minimize food waste at home. With the average household of four losing a staggering £1,000 annually to wasted food, this initiative offers a tangible solution to save money and reduce environmental impact.

Broadland District Councillor, Jan Davis said:

"Broadland District Council is committed to supporting sustainable practices that benefit our community. Food Waste Action Week provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the simple steps we can all take to reduce waste and live more sustainably."

WRAP’s research highlights the significant potential for reducing household food waste by eliminating packaging on uncut fresh produce. This allows consumers to buy closer to their needs while simultaneously reducing unnecessary plastic waste. In line with this, WRAP has called for a packaging ban on 21 commonly purchased fruit and vegetable items, a recommendation developed through extensive consultation with industry stakeholders. Selling these items loose could prevent an estimated 100,000 tonnes of edible produce from ending up in landfills annually, while also saving 13,000 tonnes of plastic film.

South Norfolk Councillor Keith Kiddie said:

"We're thrilled to partner with Love Food Hate Waste to promote the benefits of buying loose produce. By choosing loose items, shoppers can purchase exactly what they need, minimizing waste and saving money. It’s a win-win for both our wallets and the environment."

South Norfolk and Broadland Councils will be hosting informative stalls at the following supermarkets:

• Monday 17 March: Waitrose, Wymondham (NR18 0SH)
• Tuesday 18 March: Morrisons, Catton (NR6 7HS)
• Wednesday 19 March: Morrisons, Diss (IP22 4XF)
• Friday 21 March: Tesco, Blue Boar Lane (NR7 8AB)
• Saturday 22 March: ASDA, Drayton High Rd (NR6 5DT)

Stalls will be open from 10:00am to 1:30pm, where council representatives will be available to provide information, answer questions, and encourage shoppers to embrace buying loose.

Find out more on the Love Food Hate Waste website.