Millions of pounds of food are thrown out by American restaurants every year. Not only does this waste perfectly good food, but for a professional kitchen, that’s also a massive misuse of money. There are several ways restaurant owners can try to get better control of their waste management. Start saving product and money in your kitchen today by following these simple steps. 

3 Ways to Cut Down on Restaurant Food Waste

1. Inventory Control

The best place to start reforming your waste management practices is before the food is even prepared. Keep your backstock well organized, so food is used before the expiration date. Take note of the food that sits around a long time, as this indicates that you are ordering too much of it. Make sure all perishables are being stored correctly and that any refrigeration issues are addressed quickly, so food isn’t going bad before its expiration date.

2. Staff Education 

Educating your staff about best practices for waste management and inventory control can be crucial. Teach your kitchen staff about how to best prepare food with the least amount of waste, being transparent about the cost of food versus the amount of waste. Make it a friendly competition to try and reduce the whole amount of waste being thrown away each day. Encourage staff to find ways to use up ingredients, such as using leftover chicken for soup the next day. You can also give your staff leftover food as free meals, or to take home to children and spouses. Your employees will appreciate it, and it’s less food in the trash bin at the end of the night.

3. Donation

Many food banks will come to your business to pick up food donations, and you get to write off the donation on your taxes. Food waste can also be donated to local livestock farms for compost or animal feed. Most local farms will do the pickup for you. However, there are state regulations regarding what can and cannot be donated, so do your research and make sure that you are following any state, county, or city ordinances.

Southeast Waste Disposal in Ozark, AL, offers customized waste management solutions for every business, from dumpster rental to waste collection. They can guide you on how best to manage your food waste and ensure that the food you are throwing out is disposed of correctly. Their waste disposal experts are familiar and up-to-date with all local and state ordinances regarding trash removal, so you never need to worry about your waste collection being appropriately handled and up-to-code. For more information, call 334-774-4158 or visit their website today.