Status: 07.06.2022 8:09 p.m
In Spain, an average of 31 kilograms of food is thrown away per capita every year. The government wants to oblige restaurateurs to pack unused food free of charge for guests to take away.
In the fight against food waste, the Spanish government is making innkeepers responsible. Bars and restaurants must offer their guests free food to take home with them in a bag, a so-called doggy bag. The cabinet passed a corresponding law.
Supermarkets should develop ideas
In addition, all companies in the food industry must develop plans to reduce waste. Supermarkets are being urged to reduce prices on products as the sell-by date approaches. They are also said to make agreements with neighborhood organizations and food banks to donate such products to those in need.
Once the best before date has passed, the law recommends using the food for use as animal feed or for industrial production of fertilizers and biofuels.
“Raise Awareness”
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Luis Planas said the law aims to raise awareness. In Spain, 1,400 tons of food are wasted every year, which corresponds to 31 kilograms per person. This results in an average loss of around 250 euros per year for every Spaniard.
According to the minister, only France and Italy have had similar laws in the EU so far. He hopes that the draft will be passed by Parliament and will come into force on January 1, 2023.