Can a state law fight food waste?

The fight against food waste gets legal. Plus, an ode to heirloom apples and new thinking about rare species.

AuthorAuthor

Lena Beck & Modern Farmer
September 16, 2024

Hello! Lena here, staff writer at Modern Farmer.

A few months ago, we published a series of stories about people working to solve the problem of wasted food. Ever since, I’ve incorporated some of the learnings from that series into my own life, such as making use of every part of each vegetable. A few weeks ago I made a pesto out of the spicy greens atop a bunch of radishes. It was delicious.

But I know I won’t solve the world’s food waste problems in my kitchen. It takes systemic change, too. This week, our feature story takes us to California, where a recent law mandates edible food recovery. Can California teach the rest of us how to reduce food waste on a larger level? Check it out.

California’s food recovery laws require large food generators to donate their surplus food.

A dumpster overflows with bread and vegetables.

Photo: Shutterstock/ArieStudio

Also fresh this week

A yellow-green apple hangs from a tree branch

Heirloom apple | Photo: Seed Savers Exchange

“Heirlooms hold the promise that there was once a richness that has been lost in the glossy monotones of the supermarket, and a diversity that met each individual’s particular need.”

Five black cows walk uphill toward a farmer

Rare breeds add much-needed diversity to animal agriculture | Photo: Vermont Wagyu

The earth’s sixth mass extinction is happening right now, with species dying off because of encroaching agriculture. Here’s why some farmers are opting to use those animals so we can all keep them around.

Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you next week!

~ LB

Weekly Action | Download these apps to reduce food waste at home.

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