While many countries in the world are still struggling against hunger and malnutrition, food waste is a major sticking point for many when considering the huge food industries of developed countries. Denmark has taken a big step to eliminate waste, by opening a supermarket to sell surplus expired food, which will end up in the trash.
The WeFood supermarket was opened in Copenhagen, which sells expired items by date (a date that does not refer to food safety but to quality). These expired food items are still safe and are sold at discounts of up to 50%.
WeFood is the first supermarket in Denmark and possibly the world, and is dedicated to anyone concerned about the amount of food waste in this country and not just for low-income shoppers. Many people see it as a positive and correct way of dealing with this issue.
"It is ironic that food is thrown in waste and wasted," Danish Food Minister Eva Kjer Hansen said. "It's a bad idea for the environment and the money spent. A supermarket like WeFood is an important step in the battle against food waste. "
A 2013 study found that 91 percent of people admit to throwing their food because of its shelf life. Although experts say the best way to spoil food is to sniff it.
In Denmark, more than 700,000 tons of food are delivered annually, according to a local newspaper. This is even an improvement, as food waste has fallen 25% in the country over the past five years.
This supermarket is run by volunteers, and profits go to NGOs operating in the world's poorest countries. If the supermarket proves successful, it could open more than a similar supermarket across Denmark.
Source:
http://www.medicaldaily.com/food-waste-expired-food-denmark-375475