News

French Law Bans Supermarkets From Throwing Out Food That's Still Edible

by Emily Arata

In grocery stores across France, the last loaves of bread on the shelf and apples in the bin will no longer go to waste.

In accordance with new legislation, every supermarket that is at least 4,305 square feet must donate its excess food to charity, The Guardian reports.

On Thursday night, France's National Assembly voted unanimously to pass the law that will lower food waste and increase supplies for the country's struggling citizens.

Some markets worry about being liable for potential food-borne illnesses. Reportedly, markets go as far as pouring bleach over food in trash cans to make it inedible for scavengers.

Under the new law, the "scandalous" practice will become illegal.

And instead of merely leaving trashcan lids open, the grocery stores must sign contracts with specific charities or animal feed programs by July of next year when the law is implemented.

The new stipulations are especially timely in France; citizens throw out nearly 70 pounds of food per year.

Arash Derambarsh, the Parisian who began a local petition which eventually sparked the law, told press it's the first step in global change.

He's reportedly working with Bono's ONE foundation to present food waste management strategies to the United Nations later this year.

Citations: France to force big supermarkets to give unsold food to charities (The Guardian)