In response to Israel’s critical food waste issue, where a staggering 2.6 million tons of food were discarded in the previous year, a tech startup has put forward an innovative solution. The startup ‘SpareEat’ has designed a software application that connects food producers with surplus stock to nonprofit organizations and food pantries. This solution is intended to get the surplus food distributed to households and communities in need, helping to curtail waste.
The app, which is currently being piloted in select cities, uses real-time data to track the supply and demand of food items. SpareEat hopes to help Israel make a significant stride towards a more sustainable future and contribute to global food waste reduction efforts.
Beyond this, SpareEat has conceived a unique approach to tackling food waste. They collect unsold food items from a variety of food businesses, repackage them into differently assorted bundles, and make them available for pickup by app users. As well as combating food waste, this innovative approach affords consumers a unique gastronomical experience.
SpareEat’s approach to Israel’s food surplus
Based in Tel Aviv, SpareEat has developed collaborations with various food-based businesses across the nation. The businesses are registered on the SpareEat app, enabling users to adjust their preferences according to their location. Through the app, users connect with these businesses and purchase the surprise food bundles at discounted rates. Each bundle often contains a mix of surplus items, which could include anything from fresh bread to full meals.
The disgraced food items are usually available towards the end of the business day, providing an effective solution against food waste by enabling consumers to buy surplus food at lower prices. In doing so, SpareEat is succeeding in creating a community of environmentally-friendly consumers.
Beyond just tackling food waste, SpareEat aims to bolster customer footfall in brick-and-mortar stores as a counter to the increasing trend of delivery services. By making in-store visits more appealing, SpareEat hopes to strike a balance between reducing food waste and supporting local businesses. Furthermore, the company believes in promoting sustainable consumption and making quality food affordable for lower-income groups.
In essence, SpareEat is not fixated only on profits; they are also highly committed to social responsibility. This feat is achieved by addressing societal issues, partnering with other like-minded businesses, and creating a virtuous cycle of economic, environmental, and social benefits.
