NFU Mutual urges farms to donate surplus food
16th February 2022
NFU Mutual has launched a campaign urging farms to donate edible food waste to redistribution charity FareShare.
In the UK, around 8.4million people struggle to afford to eat, while at the same time, the nation produces a yearly food surplus equivalent to 1.3billion meals, data suggests.
FareShare works with UK food businesses to take as much of that surplus as possible and redirect it to the people who need it most.
FareShare’s Surplus with Purpose fund also offers eligible businesses a contribution towards harvesting and transport to help them cover the cost of donating.
With its network of farming, wholesale, retail and hospitality customers across the UK, the rural insurer is hoping to increase surplus food donations by introducing policyholders to the scheme.
NFU Mutual’s Jo Lumani said: “Our network of farmers, retailers, wholesalers and hospitality venues could make a huge difference in the fight against food poverty. That’s why we’re urging business owners to speak to FareShare about how they can lessen their food waste and help feed those in need.”
Dan Byrd, from B&G Nurseries has been working with FareShare for three years and says it is “really worthwhile”.
“They take most of our surplus crop, that would otherwise go unharvested, and direct it to those who need it most. Nobody should go hungry.”
FareShare commercial manager Shula Granville adds: “We work with over 500 food businesses who play a crucial role in our support for vulnerable people across the UK. Not only do their supplies help to get food on plates, but businesses tell us their work with FareShare contributes to their sustainability goals, gives them a chance to give back to their local communities and increases staff engagement.
“In the last five years, we’ve quadrupled the amount of surplus food we redistribute. The food industry is becoming increasingly active against food waste and we’re delighted to be working with NFU Mutual to continue to drive that change, encouraging more businesses to do their part in the fight against food poverty.”
To book a ‘Waste Walk’ to help your business identify edible surplus food, visit https://fareshare.org.uk/giving-food/book-a-waste-walk/
