Zero-Waste Initiatives: Minimising Food Waste in Corporate Catering

The Importance of Minimising Food Waste

In such a disposable economy, it’s becoming ever more important to consciously monitor your food waste. Thinking more about our contribution to caring for the planet is something everybody should take pride in, particularly when it comes to the production and consumption of food. 

Top 5 Ways You Can Minimise Food Waste

Here are our top five recommended ways to minimise food waste in your business. 

1. Thoughtful Planning

Planning your meals far in advance is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help minimise food waste. Doing so as far in advance as possible means you only order as much food as you need. 

Also, think about the dry foods you could stock up on to provide to clients and guests if you were to have an issue. Dried foods such as pasta have a long ‘use by’ date, meaning they are perfect for keeping long-term. 

If you happen to have a produce mishap and find yourself short of fresh produce, ensure you have local businesses available for you to call upon for a helping hand. 

2. Implement a Labelling System

Having a labelling system in place is a fantastic way to ensure you know where your stock lies on the expiry timeline. Having labels or stickers on each item with the date of purchase and/or the date of expiry gives you all the information you need to know at a quick glance, saving you time on tediously checking for the small print on each item. 

You could also foster a system of storing products by age, with the products closer to their use by date closer to the front, within easy reach. 

3. Have a Back-Up Plan for Surplus Food

Getting the quantity of food 100% perfect is almost impossible, particularly if you’re providing for several large parties at a time. With that said, it doesn’t mean food has to go to waste if you end up with more than planned. 

Local food banks in your area would greatly appreciate food donations to help those in need, particularly the tasty food you provide customers. Not only does this save on food waste, it feeds individuals and families who otherwise would go hungry. 

If you have no local food banks within the area, think of other local businesses that would benefit from a donation, such as nurseries and schools. Equally, brainstorm some business ideas that could incorporate the additional food, such as competitions or giveaways. 

4. Adopt a Waste-Conscious Culture

Your team should already have an idea of how to practice sustainably within your sector, but it’s always worth the odd reminder to ensure you’re doing the most you can to reduce food waste in your business.

Keeping the team up to date with proper handling techniques, product shelf life, and portion sizes will make a huge difference to the amount of waste in your kitchen. You should also encourage your team to seek ways to minimise waste proactively. 

5. Pay Attention to Plate Management

This final tip is especially useful to catering companies that take part in events or take regular stock checks. Understand and recognise the signs of over-ordering. If the same product is being returned to the kitchen or left over at the end of the event, it’s more than likely going to continue being wasted. Cut your losses and remove them as a choice to minimise food waste further. 

Sustainable, Tasty Catering From Green Bike Food

If you’re on the hunt for a sustainable corporate catering company that takes pride in its affordability, delivery and fully customisable menu options, Green Bike Food are the caterer for you. For more information on how we can transform your event, get in touch with us today!