It’s no secret that our society is moving toward a more environmentally conscious mindset. The phrase “go green” is more than a catchy slogan; it’s necessary for businesses to thrive. This is especially true in the food service industry. Approximately one-third of food produced for human consumption in the U.S. ends up in a landfill, contributing significantly to carbon emissions and making sustainability key. Here are ways to practice sustainability in the food service industry:
Proper Waste Management
Implementing sustainable practices in the food service industry starts with proper waste management. Tracking inventory closely helps food service businesses order only what they need, reducing spoilage and unnecessary waste. Portion control also plays a huge role in minimizing overpreparation and the amount of leftover food. Leftover food is inevitable, but sending it to the landfill is not. Consider partnering with a composting facility to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich compost materials that agricultural industries can use. Donating surplus foods to local shelters and food banks is another effective way of keeping edible items out of landfills while supporting the community.
Responsible Food Sourcing
Sourcing food responsibly is a key component of sustainability. Prioritizing locally sourced ingredients reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long-distance. This also supports local farmers and businesses. Using in-season produce is another strong strategy for responsible food sourcing, as it reduces the need for chemicals used to grow out-of-season crops. Choosing suppliers that follow ethical and sustainable farming practices, including organic farming and responsible fishing, helps ensure food is produced with minimal environmental impact.
Energy and Water Conservation
In food service operations, conserving energy and water are critical aspects of environmentally friendly practices. Switching to energy-efficient appliances, like LED lightbulbs and Energy Star equipment, significantly reduces energy consumption. Upgrading to low-flow faucets and energy-efficient dishwashers can help conserve water without sacrificing performance. Make sure to stay on top of your facility by regularly checking for leaks and malfunctioning equipment, as this helps reduce unnecessary water and energy consumption. These changes help minimize your business’s environmental impact and result in long-term savings.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Opting for eco-friendly packaging made from recycled or compostable materials is an impactful way to implement sustainable practices in food service. Packaging from recycled paper, cardboard, compostable plastics or other renewable resources helps reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or oceans. Minimizing excessive packaging by optimizing your design and choosing appropriately sized containers further reduces waste. The switch to sustainable packaging benefits the environment while boosting your business’s reputation as an eco-conscious brand.
Green Cleaning Products
Eco-friendy cleaning products are made from natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safer for people and the environment. They reduce the need for harsh chemicals that can pollute the air and waterways. Green cleaning products also often come in recyclable packaging, further reducing waste. Using these cleaning products is a key step in making your food service operation more sustainable, creating a healthier space for co-workers and customers while protecting the environment.
Team Training
Providing your team with proper education on eco-friendly practices, including how to use energy-efficient appliances, reduce food waste and handle packaging responsibly, is crucial for enhancing sustainability. Empowering co-workers with the knowledge and tools to identify areas where improvements can be made contributes to a culture of shared environmental responsibility. Regularly update training as new sustainable solutions become available to keep your team on track and help maintain long-term success.
Now that you know how to practice sustainability in your food service operation, it’s time to partner with Pollock Orora for all the custom solutions you need. From eco-friendly packaging to green cleaning programs, Pollock Orora makes SOLVED happen for your food service business. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you implement more sustainable practices!