Tips to Trim Down Food Waste at Your Upcoming Corporate Event

Food is what brings events to life. It is a notable attraction in corporate catered events. However, what is saddening is a lot of food that remains uneaten in these events ends up in the landfill.

As per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, food happens to be the largest contributor to the disposal system as compared to other forms of municipal solid waste. What is even more dreadful is that the same ‘clean’ food ends up releasing methane—a strong greenhouse gas.

If you think there is a lot of food waste at your corporate events, here are a few steps you can follow to reduce it in your upcoming corporate event.

Plan In Advance

When organizing a corporate catered event, put food waste reduction as your first priority since the very beginning. Start from finding organizations that will collect leftover food to distribute amongst the poor or homeless in your area. The most common mistake people make is putting first things last, such as food waste reduction. This is not something you can do at the eleventh hour. It will take you time to find a leftover collection organization and things like availability will have to be considered. So, it is best to plan ahead of the event.

Another thing you should understand is the importance of the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act. The law was passed in the United States in 1996, and it protects organizations and individuals who donate food from facing legal consequences if any of the donated food items turn out bad or harm anyone.

If you can, communicate with the attendees prior to the event regarding food waste reduction. Send out a reminder email a day before the event in which you ask the attendees to confirm their availability in order to reduce food waste.

Be Watchful

Research has shown that an average person eats no more than 1 pound of food in every meal. Often, food caterers will con you by setting a target of 3 pounds per person to earn more, especially in buffet setups. Make sure you choose reliable caterers and do necessary calculations before things are finalized. Go for well-reputed corporate caterers, such as Artisan by Santa Barbara Catering, Atlasta Catering & Event Concepts, Creations In Cuisine or Levi Catering (Kosher or Non).

Be Imaginative

Use shrewd tactics to prevent food waste. For example, you should use reusable crockery over paper/plastic dishes that are disposable. This will keep the guests from throwing away leftovers and using fresh plates to fill up without there being a need.

You can also install a hydration station or present tap-water pitchers instead of plastic bottles to prevent both water waste and environmental damage.

Be Cooperative

Most people think it is solely the caterer’s responsibility to manage everything, so they don’t pay heed to or discuss important things when they should rather be very cooperative and well-informed. Things like food quality and quantity should be discussed with the event planners or caterers you choose.

You should also communicate with both your guests and the caterers to reduce food waste. The caterer should be informed of the number of guests so that the perfect amount of food is served. If possible, talk about the importance of food waste reduction before it is time to serve. Learn more about SPEV’s Catering options.