In the UK, more than 10 million tonnes of food is wasted every year with an estimated 40% considered perfectly edible. In the hospitality sector, food waste accounts for one of the highest costs with figures reaching around 1.08 million tonnes (Mt) a year. 

It’s not just the financial costs of food waste that is concerning however, the environmental impact is just as alarming as food waste left to rot in landfill creates greenhouse gases considered 21 times more damaging to the environment than CO2. 

Common Causes of Food Waste in the Restaurant Industry

• Overproduction and portion sizes: Insufficient training of kitchen staff can lead to larger portion sizes and increased waste and leftovers. 

• Food spoilage and expiration: Improper handling, storage or packaging can lead to food becoming unfit for consumption particularly when coupled with poor refrigeration processes and inefficient inventory management. 

• Consumer behaviour and plate waste: Greed and impulsivity can often lead to over-ordering and increased food waste from customers.

Economic Impact of Food Waste

40% of food waste in the hospitality industry comes from carbohydrates with potatoes amounting to 21%, bakery products 12%, and pasta 7%. Recent figures estimate that a 5% reduction in food waste could save £250 million in the hospitality and food service sector alone.

The financial impact of such waste can be seen clearly in the hospitality sector through:

• Financial losses for restaurants

• Increased operating costs

• Loss of potential revenue

• Impact on profitability and competitiveness

Environmental Effects of Food Waste

Food waste has significant environmental impacts. When we throw away food, we’re not just wasting the food itself; we’re also wasting the resources that went into producing it. Below are  some of the ways food waste affects the environment: 

• Increased greenhouse gas emissions from decomposing food – food waste releases methane when it breaks down, and this greenhouse gas is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide

• Climate change and biodiversity loss – food waste contributes to pollution of land and water resources as it generates all the environmental impacts associated with food production 

• Landfill space - food waste cannot naturally decompose in the compressed conditions of a landfill and often remains intact.

Social Impact of Food Waste

The social impact of food waste is complex, economically it can lead to substantial financial losses for farmers, businesses, and consumers, exacerbating poverty and reducing essential resources. Culturally, it reflects and reinforces patterns of overconsumption and disregard for the intrinsic value of food and respect for the environment. 

The following provide examples of such impacts: 

• Ethical considerations regarding food distribution and access

• Food insecurity and hunger exacerbation

• Disparities in food waste between developed and developing countries

• Social responsibility and public perception of wasteful practices

Strategies to Reduce Food Waste in the Restaurant Industry

Restaurant food waste is a huge problem costing owners millions of pounds annually, the good news is there are many things that can be done to reduce food waste, save money and increase profitability – from improving stock control to simplifying menu choices, small changes can have a significant impact. 

• Menu engineering and portion control - proper recipe management provides an understanding of what each recipe yields, enabling plate cost calculations and maintaining correct and consistent portion sizes

• Improved inventory management systems – conducting a waste audit will give you insights into the amount and type of food you are wasting, the changes you should make and the potential cost savings on your bottom line 

• Donation and composting programmes – many businesses are already working with third-sector organisations and charities to donate food that would have otherwise gone to landfill. Taking time to research existing initiatives and collaborations that are already in place could provide a ready-made solution to your own food waste issues. 

• Working with waste management specialists – waste management companies such as Cawleys can support you in creating an efficient food waste recycling strategy that suits your business and integrates sustainable practices seamlessly into your daily operations.

Despite the clear benefits associated with diverting waste away from landfill, the national uptake of food waste recycling services has a long way to go. Some businesses have been put off by the perception of complex processes and foul-smelling bins but the truth is, food waste recycling can be quickly and easily integrated into existing waste management practices. 

For restaurant owners looking to improve their ESG credentials, reduce their carbon footprint and cut costs, implementing food waste recycling should be a priority and makes complete environmental and financial sense.

How can Cawleys help you with your food waste?

Understanding the most common ways that restaurant food waste is generated better prepares you for knowing how to reduce it. At Cawleys, we understand that achieving effective food waste may feel daunting, but our team of experts can support you every step of the way. We’ll guide you through the process and help you create an efficient food waste recycling strategy that suits your business and integrates sustainable practices seamlessly into your daily operations.

For a more in-depth conversation with our team and to get started on a food waste recycling plan, get in touch today by emailing sales@cawleys.co.uk or calling us at 0845 260 2000.