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# Zero Food Waste Coalition

Key Actions for Policymakers to Reduce Food Loss and Waste

## Posts

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition celebrates restored funding for the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production in Senate-Passed Bill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-celebrates-restored-funding-for-the-office-of-urban-agriculture-and-innovative-production-in-senate-passed-bill/)

**Published:** December 4, 2023
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The [Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) is proud to have been a part of the organizations, community advocates, and Congressional members who tirelessly advocated for the restoration of funding of the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production in the Senate-passed Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill. This office oversees and funds the Composting and Food Waste Reduction Cooperative Agreements and the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Competitive Grant Program. The coalition sincerely thanks Chairwoman Stabenow and the bipartisan co-sponsors of her amendment for their leadership and persistence. Please see the [full press release](https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/dem/press/release/stabenow-restores-funding-for-urban-agriculture-in-senate-passed-bill) below.

## Stabenow Restores Funding for Urban Agriculture in Senate-Passed Bill

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, successfully restored $8.5 million in funding for the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production in the Senate-passed Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill. The Office assists urban, small-scale, and innovative producers with technical and financial assistance that supports community farms and gardens, and rooftop, indoor, and vertical farms and other innovative production. Together, this increases greenspaces in communities, access to fresh, local foods, and new pathways to jobs in agriculture.

Initially, neither the Senate nor House agriculture appropriations bills included dedicated funding for the Office of Urban Agriculture and innovative production until Stabenow filed an amendment and led her colleagues to restoring funding to the office and its programs. The amendment was cosponsored by Senators Brown, Blumenthal, Booker, Durbin, Fetterman, Gillibrand, Rosen, Warnock, Markey, Wyden, and Cassidy. It was approved by voice vote. The appropriations package that included Stabenow’s amendment passed the Senate on Wednesday by a vote of 82 to 15 and must now be conferenced with the House before being signed into law.

> “Urban agriculture is growing in cities and towns across the country, creating new economic opportunities and healthier communities,” said Stabenow. “It also increases greenspace, builds more resilient communities, and provides access to fresh, local foods. That’s why my amendment was so important - restoring this funding will ensure that urban agriculture can continue to grow and thrive as an emerging sector.”

> “The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) applauds Senator Stabenow and her colleagues’ leadership in securing essential funding for the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production,” said NSAC Policy Director Mike Lavender. “Demand for the Office continues to steadily grow – from connecting urban centers to fresh produce, enabling growers to explore emerging indoor technology, offering training opportunities for youth, and much more. We look forward to continuing to work together to secure funding for the office in any final FY2024 appropriations legislation.”

> “The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) applauds Senator Stabenow’s work to restore funding for urban agriculture at USDA, which helps diversify production methods for fresh fruits and vegetables and build resiliency in local and regional food systems,” said IFPA Vice President of U.S. Government Relations Rebeckah Adcock. “Urban and innovative agriculture offers tremendous opportunities for sustainable production and puts fresh produce closer to the consumers who needed it most to improve their health and reduce hunger, especially in underserved communities.”

> “We appreciate the steadfast leadership of Chairwoman Stabenow and the bipartisan co-sponsors of her amendment for ensuring that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has the resources it needs to support controlled environment agriculture,” said Executive Director of the CEA Alliance Tom Stenzel. “Continued funding for the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is important to the success of U.S. high-tech greenhouses and indoor vertical farms. Countries around the world are investing in indoor farming, and the U.S. has an opportunity to lead innovation in this rapidly growing sector of agriculture.”

Stabenow has long championed urban agriculture as both Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the Committee. It was through her leadership that the 2018 Farm Bill formally recognized urban agriculture at the United States Department of Agriculture for the first time by establishing the office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production and supporting grant programs. Since then, the office has invested more than $50 million in more than 230 grants and cooperative agreements across the country to support urban agriculture.

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Releases Open Letter Urging Congress to Reauthorize the Farm Bill in 2024](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-releases-open-letter-urging-congress-to-reauthorize-the-farm-bill-in-2024/)

**Published:** January 18, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Today, the [Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) released an open letter to Congress encouraging them to take swift action to reauthorize the Farm Bill in 2024, as well as recommending specific improvements for food loss and waste provisions.

In addition to the founding Zero Food Waste Coalition members—Harvard Law School’s Food Law and Policy Clinic, ReFED, World Wildlife Fund, and Natural Resources Defense Council—the letter is supported by 77 cross-sector stakeholders, including companies, non-profit organizations, universities, and more.

The recommendations detailed in the Farm Bill open letter include:

1. Create a Food Loss and Waste Reduction Office within the USDA to improve federal coordination.
2. Fund planning and infrastructure to reduce food waste and enhance surplus food recovery;
3. Support research in food waste prevention, upcycling, and recycling solutions; and
4. Clarify and standardize the food date labeling system.

These recommendations are based off of the Zero Food Waste Coalition’s report, “[Opportunities to Reduce Food Waste in the 2023 Farm Bill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2023-Farm-Bill-Food-Waste.pdf),” which details effective levers for promoting long-lasting solutions to addressing food waste.

To read the complete letter and see the full list of signatories, [click here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC-Farm-Bill-Community-Open-Letter_FINAL.pdf).

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Submits Comments on the Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-submits-comments-on-the-draft-national-strategy-for-reducing-food-loss-and-waste-and-recycling-organics/)

**Published:** February 3, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

This week, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) submitted comments on the EPA, USDA, and FDA’s [Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/national-strategy-reducing-food-loss-and-waste-and-recycling-organics). The goals of this strategy are to prevent food loss and waste; increase the recycling rate of food and other organic materials; reduce GHG emissions; save households and businesses money; and build cleaner, healthier communities.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition—a collection of organizations dedicated to informing and influencing U.S. food waste policy at the federal, state, and local levels—commends the agencies for releasing this draft strategy and driving forward innovative and progressive food loss and waste policy. The Coalition supports the actions outlined in the plan and has identified several ways for the agencies to build on them further.

In summary, the Zero Food Waste Coalition suggests the following actions be added to the strategy:

1. **Create a whole-of-government strategy:** Having the three primary food agencies address food loss and waste within their programming is an excellent starting point, and the ZFWC encourages the creation of an expanded strategy that includes the White House and other federal agencies.
2. **Include lead-by-example commitments internally:** Federal agencies and facilities should evaluate their operations for ways to reduce food loss and waste, such as within federal agency cafeteria operations and procurement, then the publicize food waste and food recovery data.
3. **Commit to more extensive measurement and reporting:** By investing in thorough food loss and waste measurement up-front, the agencies can improve the accuracy of food loss and waste measurement models and thereby support actors on the ground using this information, such as advocates, policymakers, and businesses.
4. **Establish incentives under grant and cooperative agreement programming:** The agencies should use their own funding programs as leverage to increase food loss and waste reduction by their grantees, by requiring grant applicants to develop food waste plans as a condition of receiving grant funding, or by offering bonus points to grant applicants that include food waste plans.
5. **Include greater emphasis on upcycled food and animal feed pathways:** Since nearly 40% of all food crops are grown for animals, there is an untapped opportunity to displace traditional feeds grown from soy and corn, which are major drivers of land conversion, with animal feed derived from human food production and food surplus deemed unfit for human consumption.
6. **Provide more specific commitments around how the agencies will promote environmental justice and equity.** Though the strategy states the agencies will promote equity through the strategy's implementation, we encourage the agencies to explicitly identify the ways they will do so and include those commitments within the finalized strategy.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition is glad to see the agencies taking the necessary next steps to achieve the national goal to halve food loss and waste by 2030. Additionally, the coalition encourages the agencies to utilize the knowledge of the ZFWC—a pre-existing network of food loss and waste stakeholders—to effectively implement the strategy.

To read the coalition’s full comment, [click here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC_National-Strategy-Comment-Final-1.pdf).

**Categories:** Uncategorized

---

### [Broad Food Industry Support for Food Date Labeling Act](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/broad-food-industry-support-for-food-date-labeling-act/)

**Published:** February 14, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Over 25 industry supporters have signed the Zero Food Waste Coalition’s [open letter](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-Date-Label-Support-Letter_June-Updated.pdf) urging Congress to support the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act of 2023 (H.R.3159, S.1484) (FDLA) and encourage them to include it in the upcoming Farm Bill. The FDLA aims to reduce food waste by establishing a standardized dual-date labeling scheme for date-labeled food products in the United States. Major food industry businesses, including Kroger, Walmart, and Nestlé USA, have signed the letter, which cites that standardizing and streamlining date labels is one of the most cost-effective methods to prevent the wasting of surplus, wholesome food.

“Danone North America is proud to support and join this diverse Coalition to advocate for the Food Date Labeling Act. This is a pragmatic approach that can help the food industry work across a common and standard labeling framework that is both clear for consumers and helpful to ensure that more unsold items end up with food banks versus landfills,” said Christopher Adamo, Vice President of Public Affairs & Regenerative Agriculture Policy.

Approximately 38% of food produced or imported into the United States goes unsold or uneaten each year, and confusion over date labels is a major driver of this waste. With almost 60 different labeling terms currently being used, consumers often prematurely discard past-date food because they mistakenly confuse “quality” date labels with “discard” date labels. Most dates on food are quality dates to indicate the manufacturer's estimate for optimal freshness and taste of food. Some small number of foods have date labels that are intended to signal the shelf-life of food or an increased risk of food safety after an extended amount of time, after which the labeler advises the food not to be consumed. However, there is currently no federal regulation on food date labeling, except for infant formula. The current patchwork of date label regulations across states lacks consistency, and the resulting consumer confusion accounts for approximately 8% of all U.S. food waste.

The FDLA directly addresses consumer confusion by proposing a labeling scheme where food labelers who choose to include a date label on their food product use one of two options: “BEST If Used By” to indicate optimal freshness and quality and “USE By” to indicate the discard date. Food industry companies welcome the simplified and standardized labeling proposal.

“Standardizing date labels through the Food Date Labeling Act is a pragmatic food waste solution,” said Ben Crook, Senior Vice President/General Manager of North American Condiments at Unilever. “By eliminating the patchwork of state date label laws, the Act helps brands such as Hellmann’s consistently and accurately communicate information about our products to consumers, so they waste less of the food they buy.”

The FDLA has support from actors across the supply chain. Rose Benjamin, Strategic Projects and Waste Programs Manager at Bon Appétit Management Company, said: “Standardizing date labeling has tremendous potential to reduce food waste within the food service sector. It will help to eliminate unnecessary confusion about product spoilage within our kitchens and prevent teams from wasting perfectly good food unnecessarily. The Food Date Labeling Act is one important tool to help our kitchens utilize food to their full potential and help us reach our goal to reduce food loss and waste by 50% by 2030.”

In addition to a dual-labeling scheme, the FDLA would also direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to work together to provide education on the meanings of the standardized date labels. A collaboration between USDA and FDA would support the successful implementation of the new date label scheme and clarify the meaning of date labels for individuals, businesses, and even state regulators.

Industry is on board to support the agencies in educating consumers about a new, standardized date-labeling scheme. Chris MacAulay, VP of Operations North America at Too Good to Go said: “Too Good To Go supports calls for standardization of date labels, and through our 'Look- Smell-Taste' initiative, we hope the additional use of pictograms can encourage people to trust their senses when assessing if food is still safe to consume past its ‘Best If Used By’ date.”

Food industry members view the FDLA as a commonsense solution that will bring much-needed regulatory consistency on food labeling. The proposed legislation offers a practical approach to addressing consumer confusion on date labels, supporting both national food waste goals, and saving households money.

The [Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/), alongside the growing number of food industry companies, call on Congress to make progress on the U.S. goal of halving food waste by 2030 and support the FDLA.

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

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### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Hosts First In-Person Advocacy Event on Capitol Hill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-hosts-first-in-person-advocacy-event-on-capitol-hill/)

**Published:** March 25, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Last week, the [Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) hosted a two-day advocacy event on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. The first-of-its-kind event, which took place on March 19 and 20, included a legislative training session, coordinated Congressional meetings, and a reception.

During the two-day event, the coalition:

- Had 30+ of its members participate
- Attended 50+ Meetings with Congressional Offices
- Hosted a reception with 85+ attendees, including 15+ Coalition members and Congresswoman Pingree
- Had attendees from organizations representing all 50 states and Canada
- During the event, coalition members and other stakeholders advocated for two bipartisan bills: [The NO TIME TO Waste Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2889/text?s=1&r=7) and the [Food Date Labeling Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3159/cosponsors). The coalition also shared some preliminary recommendations for food waste-related appropriations for the 2025 fiscal year.

“We need to make sure legislatures know that food waste is an important issue,” said Natalia de Los Rios, head of the Food Rescue U.S., Virginia Beach chapter. “We need to ensure that our direct on-the-ground experiences are being heard by Congress.”

Following the Congressional meetings on March 19th, attendees joined a reception in the Longworth House Office Building, co-hosted with the Congressional Food Recovery Caucus and sponsored by Hellmann’s. The reception featured rousing speeches from Congresswoman Pingree and food waste champions from the nonprofit and private sectors on opportunities to address food loss and waste through federal legislation, specifically the Farm Bill.

**Categories:** Federal

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### [ZFWC Releases Open Letters Requesting Funding for Food Loss & Waste Prevention in FY2025 Appropriations Process](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-releases-open-letters-requesting-funding-for-food-loss-waste-prevention-in-fy2025-appropriations-process/)

**Published:** May 3, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

For the first time, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is participating in the Appropriations process by requesting the committees provide funding to address food loss and waste in fiscal year 2025.

Appropriations is one of most significant opportunities for advocates to voice their priorities and concerns to Congress by suggesting where funding should be allocated during the 2025 fiscal year. Given the Coalition’s goal of informing and influencing U.S. food waste policy at the federal, state, and local levels in order to accelerate progress in food loss and waste prevention, it felt crucial to partake.

The coalition has outlined its requests in two open letters, which were signed by over 50 industry players, non-profit organizations, universities, and more—such as Winnow, U.S. Composting Council, Too Good to Go, University of Arkansas, and others. Signatories also include all founding organizations of the ZFWC: World Wildlife Fund, Harvard Food Law & Policy Clinic, ReFED, and the Natural Resources Defense Council.

The first letter was sent to the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittees in the House and Senate. It requests funding for the USDA Food Loss and Waste Reduction Liaison, as well as report language requiring the USDA to issue guidance on food safety requirements and liability protections for food donations.

The second letter, which was sent to the Interior Appropriations Subcommittees in the House and Senate, requests funding and report language for the EPA to implement a national consumer education campaign on food loss and waste.

Read the FY25 Agriculture Appropriations letter [here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Zero-Food-Waste-Coalition-Ag-Approps-FY25.pdf) and the FY25 Interior Appropriations letter [here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Zero-Food-Waste-Coalition-Interior-Approps-FY25.pdf).

#### Download Files

[ZFWC FY25 Agriculture Appropriations Sign-On Letter](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Zero-Food-Waste-Coalition-Ag-Approps-FY25.pdf)

[ZFWC FY25 Interior Appropriations Sign-On Letter](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Zero-Food-Waste-Coalition-Interior-Approps-FY25.pdf)

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

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### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Celebrates Senator Stabenow’s Farm Bill Proposal, Applauds Inclusion of Food Waste Provisions](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-celebrates-senator-stabenows-farm-bill-proposal-applauds-inclusion-of-food-waste-provisions/)

**Published:** May 4, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Earlier this week, Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow of the Senate Agriculture Committee released a detailed [section-by-section](https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/dem/press/release/chairwoman-stabenow-unveils-the-rural-prosperity-and-food-security-act) proposal for the Farm Bill. The proposal includes several bipartisan food waste provisions that will help combat food loss and waste. The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) applauds Chairwoman Stabenow for her continued commitment to food waste reduction and looks forward to working with Congress to finalize these important provisions.

Up to 40% of food in the U.S. goes unsold or uneaten. In 2022, this waste cost farmers, manufacturers, households, and other businesses [$473 billion](https://refed.org/food-waste/the-problem/) to grow, process, transport, and dispose of food that was never eaten. This Farm Bill presents an important opportunity to build upon successful food waste pilot programs launched in the 2018 Farm Bill and to ensure more comprehensive investment in food loss and waste reduction.

The Senate’s proposal aligns with many of the [federal priorities](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2023-Farm-Bill-Food-Waste.pdf) recommended by ZFWC for the upcoming Farm Bill. The proposal:

- Makes the Community Compost and Food Waste Reduction pilot program permanent, expands eligibility to states, and provides mandatory funding to the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production that administers the program.
- Establishes regional coordinators for food loss and waste reduction within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
- Directs the Food Loss and Waste Reduction Liaison to initiate a national food waste education and public awareness campaign and authorizes $2 million a year for five years to carry out these activities.
- Requires the USDA to collaborate with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration to carry out the terms of the federal interagency agreement related to reducing food loss and waste.
- Adds research on technologies for food loss and waste prevention and reduction as a priority area for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative.
- Expands the authority of the Agricultural Marketing Service to verify food and agricultural product production processes that reduce food loss and waste.

ZFWC urges Congress to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill that strengthens investments in food waste reduction, in turn providing greater social, economic, and environmental benefits for all.

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

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### [The Zero Food Waste Coalition Applauds New Funding and Expansion of Federal Interagency Collaboration to Reduce Food Loss and Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/the-zero-food-waste-coalition-applauds-new-funding-and-expansion-of-federal-interagency-collaboration-to-reduce-food-loss-and-waste/)

**Published:** June 7, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) applauds the inclusion of USAID in the Federal Interagency Collaboration to Reduce Food Loss and Waste, which was renewed last week. This formal agreement between the USDA, EPA, FDA, and now USAID is a critical step to reducing food waste and helping the U.S. reach its goal of cutting food waste in half by 2030.

The Coalition and its founding members have long called for more support for the Federal Interagency Collaboration to Reduce Food Loss and Waste and for its expansion, including in its [US Food Loss and Waste Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf) and in its [Farm Bill report](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FW_Farm_Bill_June-2024.pdf). Additionally, the ZFWC released a [Comment on the Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC_National-Strategy-Comment-Final.pdf) earlier this year, in which it called for the creation of an expanded partnership that includes the White House and other federal agencies. As such, the Coalition is excited to see that this has started to come to fruition with the new agreement that includes USAID. The ZFWC is also thrilled to see the continued participation of one of its founding members, ReFED, in the efforts.

The USDA also announced an investment by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to fund a $1.5 million Center for Research, Behavioral Economics and Extension on Food Loss and Waste and a $2.5 million pilot consumer education campaign on food loss and waste. The Center will “conduct research on policies and programs relevant to addressing inefficiencies in the food system and food-related practices, focusing on engaging underserved audiences and the next generation of young adults.”

The Coalition was thrilled to see these commitments, as it has recommended the interagency partners invest in behavioral science and dedicate funding to a national education campaign.

As part of the ZFWC’s comments on the Draft National Strategy, the Coalition also encouraged the Interagency Collaboration to provide more specific commitments around how the federal government will promote environmental justice and equity, which the recent announcement addressed.

The ZFWC looks forward to supporting and amplifying the work of the expanded interagency partnership and seeing its investments in action.

To read the full press release from USDA, [click here](https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2024/05/30/usda-announces-expansion-interagency-collaboration-help-reduce-food-loss-and-waste).

#### Download File:

[Re: Comments on the Draft National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC_National-Strategy-Comment-Final.pdf)

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

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### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Hosts Food Loss and Waste Prevention Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-hosts-food-loss-and-waste-prevention-advocacy-day-on-capitol-hill/)

**Published:** June 19, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Last week, the [Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) hosted an in-person advocacy day on Capitol Hill—attended by 35+ of its members—to continue urging Congress to prioritize food loss and waste (FLW) prevention efforts in federal policy. Given the recent movement on the 2024 Farm Bill, fiscal year 2025 Appropriations, and the [National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/NATIONAL-STRATEGY-FOR-REDUCING-FOOD-LOSS-AND-WASTE-AND-RECYCLING-ORGANICS.pdf) earlier that same week, the Coalition was eager to build upon the momentum and continue the conversation around FLW prevention and reduction.

In order to do so, Coalition members met with 25+ Congressional offices representing 14 states. During the meetings, the Coalition advocated for its [Farm Bill priorities](https://chlpi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2023-Farm-Bill-Food-Waste.pdf)—such as the [NO TIME TO Waste Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2889/text?s=1&r=7) and the [Food Date Labeling Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3159/cosponsors)—as well as its FLW requests for FY 2025 Appropriations.

The Coalition is hoping the day’s events result in opportunities to advance FLW, as well as amplification of the need to make substantial changes to reach the U.S.’s goal of reducing FLW by 50% by 2030.

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

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### [ZFWC celebrates implementation funding awarded to three food waste projects through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-implementation-funding-awarded-to-three-food-waste-projects-through-the-climate-pollution-reduction-grants/)

**Published:** August 22, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Late last year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the [Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRGs)](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants), a two-phase program that provides $250 million for noncompetitive planning grants to develop Priority Climate Action Plans (PCAP) and Comprehensive Climate Action Plans (CCAP) and $4.6 billion in competitive implementation grant funding to states, local governments, tribes, and territories to implement ambitious plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. In response, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) spent months [encouraging and assisting](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-releases-climate-pollution-reduction-grants-toolkit-encourages-prioritization-of-food-loss-waste/) organizations in asking their local agencies to prioritize initiatives designed to combat food loss and waste in their requests for funding and climate action planning.

Last month, [the EPA announced](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/biden-harris-administration-announces-43-billion-grants-community-driven-solutions-cut) that it has awarded $4.3 billion to implement 25 projects across 30 states, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across a multitude of sectors. The ZFWC is thrilled to see that three food waste projects were awarded implementation funding: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

Their food waste-related project goals are as follows:

- [Minnesota Climate-Smart Food Systems Project](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/state-minnesota): Awarded $199,999,999 
    - Project goals include accelerating the transition to climate-friendly refrigerants for food storage and the expansion of food waste diversion programs for both recovery (i.e., for human consumption) and recycling (i.e., for animal feed)
- [Oregon’s Climate Equity and Resilience Through Action Grant](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/state-oregon): Awarded $197,181,796 
    - Project goals include investing in landfill methane controls at landfill sites and in composting and anaerobic digestion infrastructure.
- [The Priority Methane Reduction Projects in Virginia](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/commonwealth-virginia): Awarded $99,999,999 
    - Project goals include the implementation of a statewide program to capture and convert methane emissions from landfills for beneficial uses and launching 10-15 competitive grant-funded programs at agencies, colleges, and universities to rescue surplus, surplus food for human consumption and to divert wasted food to composting.

Implementation awards to Tribes and territories will be announced later this summer. All states that received funding to develop a PCAP, regardless of whether they received implementation funding, will now begin work on their CCAP. Due in or around June 2025, the CCAP will reflect states’ expanded short- and long-term plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In September 2024, the EPA will hold a [CRPG planning grant workshop](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/about-cprg-planning-grant-information) in which PCAP recipients can develop and workshop their CCAPs.

Although the CCAP should follow the [PCAP roadmap,](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht0QjFRMc0c) there remain opportunities to advocate for the inclusion of food waste measures even in jurisdictions that did not expressly include food waste in their PCAP. Food loss and waste is responsible for 6% of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and [nearly 60% of all landfill methane emissions](https://www.epa.gov/land-research/quantifying-methane-emissions-landfilled-food-waste), making landfills the country’s third largest source of methane. The [CCAP is supposed to “touch on all significant greenhouse gas sources/sinks and sectors](https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-02/EPA%20CPRG%20Planning%20Grants%20Program%20Guidance%20for%20States-Municipalities-Air%20Agencies%2003-01-2023.pdf).” Thus, even if a PCAP did not include food loss and waste measures, these should be included in the CCAP.

As such, the ZFWC is now working on an advocacy plan to encourage its members to advocate for the prioritization of food waste in CCAPs. It will announce further details in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, please send any questions to . For more information about the EPA’s CRPG program and selected applicants, click [here](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/cprg-implementation-grants-general-competition-selections).

**Categories:** Grants

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition, in partnership with Divert, Publishes Food Waste Legislative Tracker](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-in-partnership-with-divert-publishes-food-waste-legislative-tracker/)

**Published:** August 14, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The [Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC)](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/), in partnership with Coalition member [Divert](https://divertinc.com/), and founding coalition member Harvard Law School Food Law & Policy Clinic, released a comprehensive [Food Waste Legislative Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sU_r0MLaO4Nqx3HAJXqkOh1XabYkzRm5Zo9zsB2ZMxM/edit?gid=1702791895#gid=1702791895) to advance opportunities to push food waste prevention and diversion laws across the country.

This interactive database provides an overview of wasted food prevention, food rescue, and food waste recycling bills in each state for stakeholders that are interested in engaging on these topics.

The legislative tracker, which will be updated regularly throughout the 2024 legislative cycle, includes:

- Insights into policies from all 50 states
- Issue areas include organic waste bans, organic waste by-product procurement, food recovery, and date labeling
- Summaries of bill content
- Status updates on each bill tracked

“Providing up-to-date information on bills that are working their way through state legislatures to tackle the issue of food waste is just one of the ways that the Zero Food Waste Coalition is providing tools to accelerate the momentum towards meeting our national goal of reducing food waste by 50% by 2030,” said Heather Latino, Clinical Instructor at the Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic. “Resources like this support our Coalition members who are on the ground implementing solutions to food waste. They know first-hand what policy opportunities and barriers exist in their communities and can use the tracker to engage in their state’s legislative process to replicate or drive supportive policy solutions.”

The ZFWC, Divert, and Harvard teams hope that increasing the accessibility of this information will help drive further advocacy efforts and engagement at the state level.

---

[Divert, Inc](https://divertinc.com/). is an impact technology company on a mission to Protect the Value of Food™. Founded in 2007, the company creates advanced technologies and sustainable infrastructure to eliminate wasted food, driving social and environmental impact. Divert provides an end-to-end solution that prevents waste by maximizing the freshness of food, recovers edible food to serve communities in need, and converts wasted food into renewable energy. The company works with over 6,600 customer locations across the U.S. to reduce wasted food and positively impact people and the environment. Its customer base spans across industries and includes five Fortune 100 companies. For more information on Divert, Inc., please visit www.divertinc.com.

[The Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic (FLPC)](https://hls.harvard.edu/clinics/in-house-clinics/food-law-and-policy-clinic/) serves partner organizations and communities by providing guidance on cutting-edge food system issues, while engaging law students in the practice of food law and policy. FLPC’s work focuses on increasing access to healthy foods, supporting sustainable production and regional food systems, promoting community-led food system change, and reducing waste of healthy, wholesome food. FLPC is committed to advancing a cross-sector, multi-disciplinary and inclusive approach to its work, building partnerships with academic institutions, government agencies, private sector actors, and civil society with expertise in public health, the environment, and the economy. For more information, visit chlpi.org/flpc and follow them on twitter at @HarvardFLPC.

**Categories:** Resources

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition celebrates finalized National Strategy to Reduce Food Loss and Waste and Recycle Organics; applauds updates aligned with its recommendations](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-celebrates-finalized-national-strategy-to-reduce-food-loss-and-waste-and/)

**Published:** July 1, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Earlier this month, the White House finalized a [National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics](https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/NATIONAL-STRATEGY-FOR-REDUCING-FOOD-LOSS-AND-WASTE-AND-RECYCLING-ORGANICS.pdf) after holding a public comment period on a draft strategy released by USDA, FDA, and EPA. The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) applauds updates in the final strategy that are aligned with many of its recommendations, including the following:

- The USDA and EPA committed to testing food waste reduction, recovery, and composting practices at their headquarters and other federal buildings. This update is aligned with the Coalition’s suggestion for the White House to lead by example with food waste practices.
- The FDA and USDA committed to uplifting private efforts to standardize food date labels, an effort the Coalition has been calling for since 2021. Additionally, the Coalition was thrilled to learn that standardizing the date labeling system was included in 9,800 submitted comments.
- The USDA and EPA added commitments to close the food loss and waste data gap, such as publishing data on how perishable products flow through the supply chain and developing a calculator to estimate methane emissions savings from diverting food waste from landfill.
- The strategy includes new actions incorporating the Coalition’s suggestions around educating crop insurance agents about gleaning opportunities, publicizing and educating stakeholders about existing federal food safety protections for creating animal feed from food scraps, updating the WARM model, prioritizing the quality of recovered and donated food, and more.Lastly, the Coalition was thrilled to see the National Strategy expanding beyond the USDA, EPA, and FDA to include USAID.

The ZFWC thanks the White House for their openness to collaboration and for providing the opportunity to submit feedback. The Coalition is looking forward to supporting the implementation of this strategy to meet the U.S.’s goal of reducing food waste by 50% by 2030.

To read the Coalition’s full comment on the Draft National Strategy, [click here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC_National-Strategy-Comment-Final.pdf).

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [ZFWC Founding Member ReFED Releases New Study Revealing Methane Hotspots Caused by Food Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-founding-member-refed-releases-new-study-revealing-methane-hotspots-caused-by-food-waste/)

**Published:** October 8, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Last week, founding member of the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC), [ReFED](https://www.linkedin.com/company/refed-rethink-food-waste/) — with support from [the](https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-methane-hub/)[ Global Methane Hub — released a study revealing methane hotspots from](https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-methane-hub/) uneaten food in the U.S. The report also included corresponding solutions that can reduce food waste and slash methane emissions.

This first-of-its-kind data emphasizes that wasting less food is a critical lever to mitigate climate change, as it is effectively a one-two punch—reducing methane both in food production and in its disposal. Methane is an extremely potent greenhouse gas that is increasingly being targeted as an “emergency brake” to limit catastrophic warming.

According to the report, surplus food is responsible for almost 4 million metric tons of methane, which equates to nearly 14% of the country’s total methane emissions and is equivalent to what’s generated by 75 million cars annually. Methane comes both from the production of food—primarily beef and dairy—and from systems like landfills and sewers that manage food waste.

The Coalition was excited to see that, in addition to providing an accurate picture of the urgent state of food waste-caused methane production, ReFED also included key strategies for achieving reduced methane emissions from food loss and waste, including:

- Establishing organics diversion infrastructure,
- Addressing consumer food waste, and
- Incentivizing business adoption of food waste prevention solutions.
- Accurate data is critical to implementing the most impactful solutions, and the Coalition congratulates ReFED and the Global Methane Hub teams on this innovative learning tool that will help drive progress toward reducing food waste-related methane emissions, thus helping slow down global warming.
- To read the full report, [click here.](https://refed.org/uploads/refed-methane-report-final.pdf)

**Categories:** Resources

---

### [ZFWC Celebrates EPA’s Announcement of Funding Opportunities to Advance Recycling Infrastructure and Support Food Waste Prevention Education](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-epas-announcement-of-funding-opportunities-to-advance-recycling-infrastructure-and-support-food-waste-prevention-education/)

**Published:** September 30, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is excited to see the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) dedicate $117 million in grants focused on recycling and wasted food prevention. It's an important step in addressing the 38% of food that goes unsold and uneaten in the U.S. and will help advance progress towards the national goal of a 50% reduction in food loss and waste by 2030.

[The Recycling Education and Outreach Grant Program (REO)](https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/consumer-recycling-education-and-outreach-grant-program) will provide $39 million to fund one cooperative agreement, which includes developing and implementing a national consumer wasted food reduction campaign, expanding the market for and sales of compost, and increasing education and outreach to households on composting.

The Coalition and its founding members have long called for a national consumer education and behavior change campaign, including in its [US Food Loss and Waste Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/food-waste-action-plan/) and in its [Farm Bill report](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2023-Farm-Bill-Food-Waste.pdf). Evidence indicates that a national education campaign has tremendous potential to impact consumer behavior and ZFWC is glad to see EPA take this next step by offering funding for a national campaign.

EPA also announced $78 Million for the next round of [Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grants](https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/solid-waste-infrastructure-recycling-grant-program). The goal of these grants is to improve post-consumer materials management programs and infrastructure.

To learn more about EPA’s Consumer Recycling Education and Outreach Grant Program, [click here](https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/consumer-recycling-education-and-outreach-grant-program).

To learn more about EPA’s Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program, [click here](https://www.epa.gov/circulareconomy/solid-waste-infrastructure-recycling-grant-program).

**Categories:** Grants

---

### [ZFWC Members and Partners in Florida Send Open Letter Calling on Florida Congressional Delegation to Co-Sponsor the Food Date Labeling Act](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-members-and-partners-in-florida-send-open-letter-calling-on-florida-congressional-delegation-to-co-sponsor-the-food-date-labeling-act/)

**Published:** September 30, 2024
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Zero Food Waste Coalition, in collaboration with its members and partners in Florida, united organizations across the state in support of the federal Food Date Labeling Act ([H.R.3159,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3159?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR+3159%22%7D&s=1&r=1) [S.1484](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1484)). These organizations were asked to sign a letter calling on the Florida delegation in Congress to co-sponsor this commonsense legislation that would standardize date labels across the U.S.

Over 50 Florida-based organizations voiced their support by signing the letter. These organizations represent a diverse set of stakeholder groups, including hospitality, food recovery, farming, compost, academia, and more. The Coalition believes everyone has a role to play when it comes to addressing food loss and waste, and standardizing date labels through federal legislation is one of the low-cost, low-effort ways to ensure more of the safe, wholesome food grown and imported in the U.S. is actually consumed by people.

The letter was shared with the senators and members of the House of Representatives representing Florida in Congress. The Coalition is now looking to their leadership in supporting Florida consumers and businesses by signing on as co-sponsors to the FDLA.

To read the Florida FDLA open letter, [click here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2024-09-30FDLA-FL-letter-of-support.pdf).

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [ZFWC Submits Comment in Response to USDA and FDA’s Joint Request for Information on Food Date Labels, Invites Federal Standardization](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-submits-comment-in-response-to-usda-and-fdas-joint-request-for-information-on-food-date-labels-invites-federal-standardization/)

**Published:** March 8, 2025
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

This week, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) [submitted a comment](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC-RFI-Date-Labeling-Comment.pdf) in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Request for Information](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/12/04/2024-27810/food-date-labeling) on Food Date Labeling.

The ZFWC—alongside many other food loss and waste champions—has supported federal standardization of food date labels since its inception, including through its support of the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act and its engagement around the National Strategy for Reducing Food Loss and Waste and Recycling Organics.

With the recent release of USDA and FDA’s joint Request for Information (RFI) on date labeling, the Coalition was eager to submit a comment to elevate opportunities to address the $22 billion of food waste associated with date labels annually.

The Coalition’s comment includes:

- A thorough explanation of the inconsistencies within the current state-by-state patchwork of date labeling regulations that lead to excessive amounts of food waste at the retail and household levels;
- Multiple peer-reviewed and published research articles that demonstrate food date labels routinely and widely confuse consumers, stymie food donation efforts, and create supply-chain inefficiencies; and
- The multiple benefits created across the food system that come from standardizing food date labels, including cost savings for consumers, streamlining government processes, and reducing economic losses borne by food businesses.

Additionally, ZFWC encouraged its 250+ member organizations and other food waste champions to submit comments and created a toolkit with comment templates for organizations, industry members, or individuals.

The ZFWC looks forward to seeing the collective response to the RFI and welcomes agency leadership to improve food date labeling in the U.S.

**Categories:** Federal, Resources

---

### [ZFWC Launches a New Resource on How To Give Public Testimony](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-a-new-resource-on-how-to-give-public-testimony/)

**Published:** July 1, 2025
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Looking to take your advocacy to the next level? The Zero Food Waste Coalition’s, "How to Testify,” resource is built to empower food waste professionals, advocates, and coalition members to confidently engage in public testimony at the local, state, or federal level. Whether you are new to the process or looking to hone your skills, this resource walks you through the steps to prepare, deliver, and follow up on testimony that drives policy change. Learn how to navigate the legislative process, craft a compelling message, frame your expertise, and elevate the collective voice of food waste reduction advocates to advance policy solutions that just make sense.

**Download: [ZFWC Resource How to Give Public Testimony](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC-Resource_How-To-Give-Public-Testimony.pdf)**

**Categories:** Resources

---

### [ZFWC Launches New Technical Assistance Opportunity for State Food Waste Policy](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-new-technical-assistance-opportunity-for-state-food-waste-policy/)

**Published:** September 4, 2025
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Coalition seeks proposals from community-based organizations, nonprofits, coalitions, businesses, and local, state, and tribal government agencies that are ready to advance policies that address food waste and strengthen local food systems.

**About the Opportunity**

ZFWC welcomes proposals from applicants seeking to pass or implement food waste policy through legislative or administrative channels in either 2026 or 2027. Selected partners will receive up to one year of customized technical assistance from the Coalition’s Steering Committee. Support may include:

- Strategic planning and facilitation for coalition-building and stakeholder engagement
- Support navigating political or structural barriers to policy passage and implementation
- Legal and policy research, including model policy drafting
- Development of communications and advocacy materials

**Eligibility**

Any U.S.-based community organization, nonprofit, coalition, business, or local, state, or tribal government, or a group of two or more of such organizations, interested in advancing food waste policy, is encouraged to apply. Applications are especially welcomed from communities and regions with significant food waste challenges or gaps in comprehensive food waste policy.

**Application and Timeline**

The request for proposals is now open and will close on **September 30, 2025**. Apply by submitting [the Google Form linked here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedSx3kXSZArtszbczGv-ku_forK5bkl52cQD5aDth31KFQUQ/closedform). Full application details are provided in the [Request for Proposals document linked here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/RFP-Advancing-State-Food-Waste-Policy-Pilot.pdf).

**Additional Support**

ZFWC looks forward to partnering with dedicated partners to accelerate food waste policy progress and create meaningful change in communities across the country.

**Categories:** Programs, State

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Launches State Policy Pilot with New Jersey and Pennsylvania Partners](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-launches-state-policy-pilot-with-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-partners/)

**Published:** November 21, 2025
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is proud to announce the launch of its State Policy Pilot Program in partnership with a team of food waste policy leaders in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Through these two projects, ZFWC will provide one year of tailored technical assistance to support the development and implementation of impactful state-level food waste policy.

The State Policy Pilot Program is designed to help communities advance equitable, high-impact strategies that prevent food waste, expand food recovery, and reduce landfill use. Selected through a competitive process, the New Jersey and Pennsylvania projects stood out for their readiness, vision, and potential to drive transformational change.

> “Share My Meals and the Meal Recovery Coalition are honored to receive pro bono technical assistance on advocacy from the Zero Food Waste Coalition. Together, we will be working to draft a bill that strengthens New Jersey’s food waste management system by enforcing the food waste hierarchy. By spotlighting New Jersey-specific solutions and exploring tax incentives that make food recovery more attractive and feasible for businesses, we aim to build a model that reduces waste, supports local communities, and drives lasting environmental impact"
> 
> *Hélène Lanctuit, Share My Meals*

> "PRC is thrilled to work alongside Zero Food Waste Coalition and our allies at 412 Food Rescue towards increasing state funding for food waste diversion & recycling in PA. These critical state funds come from a portion of landfill tipping fees, stuck at $2 per ton since 1988. The passage of PA HB620 would raise landfill tipping fees to reflect inflation, significantly expanding the ability of municipalities and non-profit partners to fund key food & organic waste diversion infrastructure. ZFWC's Technical Assistance will be a massive asset in pushing this legislation forward!"
> 
> *Chesapeake First, Pennsylvania Resources Council*

> "Vivaria Ecologics is eager to work with the Zero Food Waste Coalition Team and organizations focused on reducing food waste and loss in New Jersey to design impactful, implementable policy. We are optimistic that if we can unlock legal and regulatory barriers to solutions like edible food donations and food waste composting, we can make rapid, demonstrable progress for our communities."
> 
> *Christina PioCosta-Lahue, Vivaria Ecologics*

ZFWC’s technical assistance will include strategic planning, policy research, coalition-building support, and communications guidance, all tailored to local needs.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition works to end food waste in the United States through policy advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement. The Coalition brings together nonprofits, government agencies, advocates, and industry leaders to build a future where food is valued and waste is eliminated.

**Categories:** Programs, State

---

### [Widespread Industry Support for the Food Date Labeling Act of 2025](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/widespread-industry-support-for-the-food-date-labeling-act-of-2025/)

**Published:** February 20, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

**WASHINGTON, DC**

Over 30 food industry supporters have signed the Zero Food Waste Coalition and Consumer Brands Association’s [joint open letter](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FDLA-Industry-Letter-2025.pdf) calling on Congress to pass the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 ([H.R.4987](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2541/text?s=1&r=8&q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22food+date+labeling+act%22%7D)), (FDLA). The FDLA aims to reduce food waste by establishing a voluntary standardized dual date-labeling scheme for food products in the United States. Major food industry businesses, including FMI – The Food Industry Association, Walmart, Amazon, and Unilever, have signed the letter, which highlights how standardizing and streamlining date labels is one of the most cost-effective methods to prevent the wasting of surplus, wholesome food.

Approximately one-third of all food produced or imported into the United States goes unsold or uneaten each year, and confusion over date labels is a major driver of this waste. With almost 47 different labeling terms currently being used, consumers often prematurely discard food because they mistakenly confuse “quality” date labels with “discard” date labels. Most dates on food are quality dates that indicate the manufacturer's estimate for optimal freshness and taste of food. Some small number of foods have date labels that are intended to signal the shelf-life of food or an increased risk of food safety after an extended amount of time, after which the labeler advises the food not to be consumed. However, there is currently no federal regulation on food date labeling, except for infant formula. The current patchwork of date label regulations across states lacks consistency, and the resulting consumer confusion accounts for approximately 6% of all U.S. food waste, costing American households and businesses more than $22 billion per year.

The FDLA directly addresses consumer confusion by proposing a labeling scheme where food labelers who choose to include a date label on their food product use one of two options: “BEST If Used By” to indicate optimal freshness and quality, and “USE By” to indicate the discard date. This simplified and standardized labeling proposal is welcomed by food businesses and trade associations.

In addition to establishing a dual-labeling scheme, the FDLA also directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to work together to provide education on the meanings of the standardized date labels. A collaboration between USDA and FDA would support the successful implementation of the new date label scheme and clarify the meaning of date labels for individuals, businesses, and even state regulators. As they grapple with rising food costs, American households on average still spend about $3,000 annually, or 11% of their yearly food budgets, to purchase food that is ultimately wasted. Education efforts by the agencies can therefore support American families by reducing confusion and significantly stretching their food dollars.

Finally, the FDLA supports food recovery. Under the FDLA, food products past their quality date that still meet food safety standards can continue to be sold or donated by food businesses, reducing unnecessary waste and ensuring that food products go to people, not landfills.

Food industry leaders across the supply chain view the FDLA as a commonsense solution that will bring much-needed regulatory consistency on food labeling. The proposed legislation offers a practical approach to addressing consumer confusion on date labels, helping American households save money and reducing national food waste levels. Industry is also on board to support the agencies in educating consumers about a new, standardized date-labeling scheme.

The [Zero Food Waste Coalition](\"/\"), alongside the growing number of food industry companies, call on Congress to pass the Food Date Labeling Act and make progress on the U.S. goal of halving food waste by 2030.

> “The makers of America's trusted household brands have always been committed to increasing consumer transparency and reducing unnecessary food waste. A streamlined and standardized approach to wording accompanying date labels on packages increases consumer confidence in the quality and safety of products. The Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 builds on industry led efforts and provides national uniformity to prevent consumer confusion. We appreciate the sponsors’ efforts to balance the needs of the consumer and complexity of changing labels.”
> 
> **– Sarah Gallo, Senior Vice President Federal Affairs, Consumer Brands Association**

> “FMI members are dedicated to educating consumers on food quality and safety to prevent food from going to landfills nd increasing the amount of safe, nutritious food donated to those in need. The Food Date Labeling Act advances these goals as consumers seek to maximize the value of their grocery dollar while aligning efforts to reduce waste. We are grateful to the sponsors for prioritizing this issue and we look forward to working with them to pass this legislation.”
> 
> **– Andrew Harig, Vice President of Tax, Trade, Sustainability & Policy Development, FMI – The Food Industry Association**

> “The Food Date Labeling Act is a vital policy solution to support organizations across the food service sector to reduce food loss and waste. Greater clarity and consistency will reduce confusion about product freshness and curb the unnecessary disposal of wholesome food. At Bon Appétit Management Company, this will support us in achieving our food loss and waste reduction targets and represents an important step forward nationally.”
> 
> **– Terri Brownlee, MPH, RDN, LDN, Vice President, Food Education and Wellness at Bon Appétit Management Company**

> “At Too Good To Go, we see every day how confusion around date labels can lead to the unnecessary waste of food that’s still perfectly good. Establishing clear, consistent national standards for date labeling is not only a bipartisan, practical opportunity to improve consumer understanding of food safety and quality, but it also reduces waste and strengthens the efficiency of the U.S. food system in a cost-effective way. We’re proud to support this effort and encourage policymakers to advance solutions that bring greater clarity to food date labeling nationwide.”
> 
> **– Chris MacAulay, Vice President of Operations for Too Good To Go North America**

**CONTACT:**
Zero Food Waste Coalition, [zfwcoalition@gmail.com](\"mailto:zfwcoalition@gmail.com\")
Ada Ezeokoli, [aezeokoli@law.harvard.edu](\"mailto:aezeokoli@law.harvard.edu\")
Susan McCarthy, [susan.mccarthy@wwfus.org](\"mailto:susan.mccarthy@wwfus.org\")
Emily Deanne, [edeanne@nrdc.org](\"mailto:edeanne@nrdc.org\")
Nate Clark, [nate.clark@refed.com](\"mailto:nate.clark@refed.com\")

Download File: [FDLA Industry Letter](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FDLA-Industry-Letter-2025.pdf)

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [The Zero Food Waste Act introduced in Congress](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/the-zero-food-waste-act-introduced-in-congress/)

**Published:** July 16, 2021
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

The Zero Food Waste Act introduced by Representatives Julia Brownley (CA), Ann McLane Kuster (NH), Chellie Pingree (ME), and Senator Cory Booker (NJ) would advance a core element of the [Food Loss and Waste Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/food-waste-action-plan/). The Act would provide state governments, Native nations, and local communities with an alternative to sending food waste to landfills and incinerators and support building out the nation’s food waste management infrastructure—creating quality new jobs, and significantly reducing GHG emissions.

Specifically, the bill would provide state and local leaders with resources to scale up food loss and waste prevention, measurement, rescue, and recycling to help put the US on a path towards achieving its national goal of reducing food loss and waste 50% by 2030 and transforming our food system to benefit people and the planet.

- Read [the sponsors' press release](https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-kuster-pingree-booker-introduce-bills-to-incentivize-sustainable-practices-in-food-consumption/) on introduction of the Zero Food Waste Act
- View [S.2389](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2389) or [H.R.4444](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4444) on Congress.gov
- [Read the bill text.](https://juliabrownley.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Zero-Food-Waste-Act.pdf)

## What Supporters Are Saying

- [WWF and Partners Welcome New Bill to Fight US Food Waste & Build a Better Food System](https://www.worldwildlife.org/press-releases/wwf-and-partners-welcome-new-bill-to-fight-us-food-waste-build-a-better-food-system)
- [Federal Food Waste Bills Offer Climate Solution](https://www.nrdc.org/experts/darby-hoover/federal-food-waste-bills-offer-climate-solution) - Darby Hoover & Yvette Cabrera, NRDC
- [Congress can make progress on fighting emissions with Zero Food Waste Act](https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-environment/564750-congress-can-make-progress-on-fighting-emissions-with) - Pete Pearson, WWF

## Take Action

- [Tell Congress, it's time to fight food waste.](https://support.worldwildlife.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1056)
- Want to endorse the Zero Food Waste Act or become a supporter of the Food Waste Action Plan? [Contact Us](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/contact-us/).

## Zero Food Waste Act Supporters

- Californians Against Waste
- Carrier Corporation
- Center for EcoTechnology
- City of Asheville, North Carolina
- City of Baltimore, Maryland
- City of Jersey City, New Jersey
- Mayor Ted Wheeler, City of Portland, Oregon
- FoodPLUS Detroit
- Food Recovery Network
- Food Waste Reduction Alliance
- FMI - the Food Industry Association
- Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic
- Hellmann's
- Hilton
- ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability USA
- Institute for Local Self-Reliance
- Make Food Not Waste
- National Restaurant Association
- Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
- ReFED
- Second Servings of Houston
- Sodexo
- The Farmlink Project
- Upcycled Food Association
- U.S. Green Building Council
- World Wildlife Fund

**Categories:** Legislation

---

### [New report on reducing food waste in the 2023 Farm Bill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/new-report-on-reducing-food-waste-in-the-2023-farm-bill/)

**Published:** April 25, 2022
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Today, the Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic, NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), ReFED, and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), released [“Opportunities to Reduce Food Waste in the 2023 Farm Bill,”](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FLPC_State_Toolkit.pdf) which outlines 22 recommendations that Congress can implement to tackle food waste in the next Farm Bill. To view a two-page overview of this report, please see [here](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FW_Farm_Bill_June-2024.pdf).

Every year, Americans waste one third of all food produced in or imported to the United States. Producing this wasted food consumes around 20% of all freshwater and cropland in the United States and generates around 270 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions––equivalent to as much as 58 million cars. Recovering just 30% of this wasted food could feed every food insecure American—about 50 million people in 2020.

“Opportunities to Reduce Food Waste in the 2023 Farm Bill” details how Congress can prioritize food waste reduction through the 2023 Farm Bill.

The 2023 Farm Bill offers a critical opportunity for Congress to take concrete steps to reduce food waste to reach our national goal of cutting food waste in half by 2030, while also supporting our environment, a circular food economy, and food security.

To view a two-page overview of these recommendations, please see [here](https://web.archive.org/web/20250619215115/https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/pdfs/FW_Farm_Bill_June%202024.pdf).

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Highlights State Policy Opportunities to Reduce Food Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-highlights-state-policy-opportunities-to-reduce-food-waste/)

**Published:** May 17, 2023
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

May 17, 2023 (St. Louis, MO) --[The Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) today released [Achieving Zero Food Waste: A State Policy Toolkit](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/state-toolkit/). Developed by the Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic (FLPC), NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and ReFED and announced during ReFED’s annual Food Waste Solutions Summit this week, the new toolkit highlights opportunities for state actors to accelerate their leadership on food waste reduction policy. With more and more states implementing both proven and innovative policy solutions, the toolkit draws upon the array of policies developed and piloted by these states and offers model policies for states to reduce food waste across the supply chain.

Approximately 38% of food in the US–or 91 million tons–is unsold or uneaten annually. Households, food producers, and other businesses spend $444 billion each year to grow, process, transport, and dispose of food that is never eaten, using precious resources in the process and generating about 380 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year. At the same time, much of this food is safe and edible, yet, more than 1 in 10 Americans experienced food insecurity in 2021.

Though the federal government can and has taken many vital steps to reduce food waste through regulations and funding, state governments have unique policy options at their disposal. The Zero Food Waste Coalition’s Toolkit was designed to provide state policymakers and advocates with examples of real-world policy options that address food waste along with an array of intersecting challenges, such as climate change, financial responsibility, food rescue, local farm viability, and more. Specifically, the toolkit explores 15 policies across the following six categories:

- Building and Broadening Organic Waste Bans
- Opportunities to Promote Food Donation
- Supporting Organic Waste Processing Infrastructure
- Developing End Markets for Compost
- Preventing Food Waste Upstream
- Other Governmental Action

> “State leaders have proven that food waste reduction policies, from banning organic waste from landfills to promoting food donation to developing markets for compost, are effective and necessary for our environment, economy, and people,” said Emily Broad Leib, Clinical Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and Faculty Director of FLPC. “States have developed a suite of actionable policy options that address local challenges through rigorous experimentation. There is significant opportunity for other states and the federal government to replicate and scale up these policies to help alleviate food insecurity, reduce environmental harm, and build a more sustainable food system for our future."

> “As we approach the final stretch in the U.S. goal to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, every level of government, from the White House to the State House to City Hall, needs to replicate and accelerate successful measures to reduce food waste,” said Andrea Collins, Senior Specialist, Sustainable Food Systems at NRDC. “The models in this toolkit will remove initial barriers for state legislators and changemakers across the country to advance the most effective solutions within their own communities. Our neighborhoods, our economy, and the climate will all benefit from stronger policies to reduce food waste in every statehouse across the country.”

> "State legislation is where food waste policy can really flex its muscles, because that's where they're actually implemented and where the benefits can be seen firsthand," said Dana Gunders, Executive Director of ReFED. "This toolkit is a great way to share learnings from the states and to help demonstrate the power of policy as a food waste solution. We're excited to see what its impact will be."

> “Reducing food waste is a global issue that requires state and community engagement. States can lead the way with policies that keep food and organic resources out of landfills, develop new markets for upcycling food resources, and educate youth and consumers on wasting less,” said Pete Pearson, Global Initiative Lead of Food Waste at WWF. “By learning from one another, states can accelerate their own progress towards addressing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of food waste. The Zero Food Waste Coalition conveniently provides bi-partisan policy guidance that will help create a more resilient food system.”

States are at the cutting edge of efforts to divert food waste from landfills through a combination of policy, funding, encouragement, and education. For the US to achieve its goal of cutting food waste in half by 2030, it is crucial for states with policies like these to build on them and for other states to adopt them.

**Download File:**
[Achieving Zero Food Waste: A State Policy Toolkit](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FLPC_State_Toolkit.pdf)

**Categories:** Resources, State

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Endorses NO TIME TO Waste Act, Urges Legislative Solutions for Food Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-endorses-no-time-to-waste-act-urges-legislative-solutions-for-food-waste/)

**Published:** October 1, 2023
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

WASHINGTON (September 21, 2023) – Members of Congress today introduced the *NO TIME TO Waste Act* to address the issue of food loss and waste in the United States through a variety of measures. With the United States’ pledge to halve food loss and waste by 2030 quickly approaching, the Zero Food Waste Coalition enthusiastically endorses this legislation as integral to implementing nationwide solutions to food loss and waste.

The *New Opportunities for Technological Innovation, Mitigation, and Education To Overcome Waste Act (NO TIME TO Waste Act)* emphasizes increased administrative coordination, expanded food loss and waste research and technology development, and scaled support of state and local food loss and waste policy solutions. It was introduced by Senators Coons (D – DE) and Moran (R – KS), along with Representatives Pingree (D – ME), and Lawler (R – NY), acknowledging the critical role that policy must play to address the soaring rate at which food produced in the United States is wasted – about 38% – and its impact on people, the planet, and the economy.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition is a group of over 100 organizations dedicated to supporting food loss and waste policy solutions, led by the Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic, NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and ReFED. The Act calls for innovative food loss and waste solutions in line with the priorities that the Zero Food Waste Coalition previously identified as key to combatting food loss and waste.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition made the following statement about the legislation: “The *NO TIME TO Waste Act* recognizes the need for responsible food loss and waste policy in order to respond to the climate and hunger crises in the United States. We are excited to support this bill and we thank Senators Coons and Moran and Representatives Pingree and Lawler on their stewardship of innovative food loss and waste federal policy. This bill takes meaningful steps toward a future with a sustainable and resilient food system by supporting better coordination amongst government agencies, infrastructure to reduce food waste and boost food recovery, and consumer education and awareness campaigns.”

One of the primary goals of the *NO TIME TO Waste Act* is to increase coordination among various levels of government on the issue of food loss and waste. The bill would establish, for example, an Office of Food Loss and Waste that would support the existing Food Loss and Waste Reduction Liaison in spearheading government action.

> “Food waste and hunger harms more than 34 million Americans and disproportionately impacts rural communities in Delaware and across our nation,” **said Senator Coons**. “My bipartisan *NO TIME TO Waste Act* strengthens collaborative efforts between federal agencies, supports public-private partnerships, and raises public awareness about the impact of food loss. By addressing food loss and waste, we can improve children’s health, fight malnutrition, and even protect our environment without putting more strain on family farms across the country.”

As the primary regulators of municipal solid waste, [state policy makers and regulators are at the vanguard of the movement](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FLPC_State_Toolkit.pdf) to prevent food waste from going to landfill where it generates harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The bill would support these leaders by creating a grant program to collect data on state and local food waste policies and by expanding eligibility for existing certain food waste funding to include State and Tribal governments as well as public-private partnerships.

The bill also includes other impactful solutions such as authorizing a food waste education and public awareness campaign, supporting innovative research and technology development of upcycled food solutions, and creating regional coordinators at the USDA to connect food businesses with food recovery organizations.

The Zero Food Waste Coalition calls on Congress to follow Senators Coons and Moran and Representatives Pingree and Lawler’s leadership by passing the Act or including its provisions in the 2023 Farm Bill. This bipartisan legislation would take the United States one step closer toward meeting its goal to halve food loss and waste by 2030.

---

**The [Harvard Law School Food Law and Policy Clinic](https://chlpi.org/food-law-and-policy/) (FLPC)** serves partner organizations and communities by providing guidance on cutting-edge food system issues, while engaging law students in the practice of food law and policy. FLPC’s work focuses on increasing access to healthy foods, supporting sustainable production and regional food systems, promoting community-led food system change, and reducing waste of healthy, wholesome food. FLPC is committed to advancing a cross-sector, multi-disciplinary and inclusive approach to its work, building partnerships with academic institutions, government agencies, private sector actors, and civil society with expertise in public health, the environment, and the economy. For more information, visit [chlpi.org/flpc](https://chlpi.org/food-law-and-policy/) and follow us on twitter at @HarvardFLPC.

**NRDC ([Natural Resources Defense Council](https://nrdc.org/))** is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, and Beijing. Visit us at [www.nrdc.org](https://nrdc.org/) and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.

**ReFED** is working to end food loss and waste across the food system by advancing data-driven solutions. As a nonprofit, we leverage data and insights to highlight supply chain inefficiencies and economic opportunities; mobilize and connect supporters to take targeted action; and catalyze capital to spur innovation and scale high-impact initiatives. Our goal is a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food system that optimizes environmental resources, minimizes climate impacts, and makes the best use of the food we grow. To learn more about solutions to reduce food waste, please visit [www.refed.org](http://www.refed.org/).

**WWF** is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, working in nearly 100 countries for over half a century to help people and nature thrive. With the support of more than 5 million members worldwide, WWF is dedicated to delivering science-based solutions to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth, halt the degradation of the environment and combat the climate crisis. Visit [https://www.worldwildlife.org](https://www.worldwildlife.org/) to learn more and keep up with the latest conservation news by following [@WWFNews](https://twitter.com/WWFnews) on Twitter and signing up for our newsletter and news alerts [here](https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/join-the-press-list-for-wwf-news).

**CONTACTS:**
Kyra Sanborn, 
Susan McCarthy, 
Josh Mogerman,

**Categories:** Federal, Legislation

---

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Releases Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Toolkit; Encourages Prioritization of Food Loss & Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-releases-climate-pollution-reduction-grants-toolkit-encourages/)

**Published:** December 1, 2023
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

Over the past few months, the [Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC)](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/) has been encouraging and assisting organizations in asking their local agencies to prioritize initiatives designed to combat food loss and waste through the [Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRGs)](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants).

The CPRGs were awarded by the US Environmental Protection Agency to states, local governments, tribes, and territories to develop and implement ambitious plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. This two-phase program provides $250 million for noncompetitive planning grants to develop climate action plans, followed by $4.6 billion for competitive implementation grants to carry out those plans.

As local agencies prepared to compete for funding, there was a unique opportunity for organizations to submit comments that emphasized the importance of and requested increased funding for combating food loss and waste.

Given that the ZFWC’s food loss and waste reduction priorities are well-aligned with the goals of the CPRG program, the ZFWC released documents to support organizations advocating for the prioritization of food loss and waste, including:

- [CPRG Comment and Contact Information Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RSmRzYBCY_AcCSA22U77LRCvvzW1ZE4s-NM2_hf_dCk/edit?gid=1264536581#gid=1264536581)
    - This tracker identifies lead governmental agencies accepting comments, the agency’s contact information, and the development of their Priority Climate Action Plans, and is updated weekly.
- [CPRG Comments Toolkit](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u06W3EXEGO3_sw4HDWWGB-1se0C3nhcZoNhj0JOtFDQ/edit?tab=t.0)
    - This toolkit includes a sample email and talking points for submitting comments to local agencies leading the CPRG planning process in their communities.

The ZFWC has submitted comments to 43 state agencies and is supporting ZFWC members interested in engaging with CPRGs. If interested in joining the ZFWC’s efforts, please contact . To learn more about CPRGs, visit [the EPA website](https://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/about-cprg-planning-grant-information) and explore [Industrious Labs’ Action Guide here](https://rmi.org/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2023/10/landfill_monitoring_memo_3.pdf).

**Categories:** Grants, Resources, State

---


## Pages

### [Home](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/)

**Published:** April 27, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

### Zero Food Waste Coalition

# Food loss and waste is at an all-time high—but it’s preventable.

## The time to act is now.

## The Challenge

In the U.S., up to 40% of all food is wasted, while 1 in 8 U.S. households lack consistent access to food. Although businesses, government agencies, nonprofits, and many others are already taking huge strides to address this challenge, **a massive acceleration is needed in order to reach our national goal of cutting food waste by 50% by 2030.**

**Meet the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC)**, a national effort to inform and influence U.S. food waste policy at the federal, state, and local levels in order to accelerate progress and build momentum by bringing together stakeholders from across the food system.

## Coalition Goals

- Advocate for legislation, administrative initiatives, and policies at the local, federal, and state levels that reduce food loss and waste and advance food recovery efforts in line with the EPA’s Wasted Food Scale
- Offer a central source of information, resources, and toolkits that enable communities, organizations, and governments to reduce food loss and waste
- Amplify the visibility of and connections between a diverse set of food system stakeholders and leaders working to reduce waste and recover food across the country through policy

By learning from one another, we can accelerate progress towards addressing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of wasting food. The Zero Food Waste Coalition makes this easier by providing bi-partisan policy guidance and state toolkits that will help create a more resilient food system.

Pete Pearson

Global Lead of Food Loss and Waste at WWF and ZFWC Steering Committee Member

[Join the Coalition](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFy-8pvxsApNdC3x4ahSkNB41Th8nG2a52UHg9EhZXo96Csw/viewform)

For questions or more resources, please email us at: general@zfwc.org

---

### [Date Label Petition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/224229-2/)

**Published:** July 28, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

## Petition In Support of Standardized Food Date Labels in the United States

The Zero Food Waste Coalition supports the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act to clarify the current confusing patchwork of date label phrases and help consumers save money by preventing the waste of perfectly good food. If you support this goal, please add your name to the petition below.

Loading…

---

### [State Food Waste Policy Actions](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/state/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## State Food Waste Policy Actions

In addition to driving federal policy change, the Zero Food Waste Coalition works to advance food waste legislation at the state and local level to address the issue from the ground up. Coalition members include 250+ organizations from across 45+ states, encompassing local governments, industry, nonprofits, and academic organizations.

**To drive progress on food loss and waste at a state level, the Coalition is currently working to:**

- Increase visibility around policy opportunities at the state level, including administrative opportunities, with the help of the [Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RSmRzYBCY_AcCSA22U77LRCvvzW1ZE4s-NM2_hf_dCk/edit?gid=1264536581#gid=1264536581).
- Accelerate policy through ZFWC member networks and build ZFWC member capacity to advocate for state policies, supported by the [Food Waste Legislative Tracker](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/13yyMqvUib8uq8XjL57E_cXfqsL37i2NPWBWmThwkNds/edit?gid=145281185#gid=145281185) and [State Policy Toolkit](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/state-toolkit/).

## Learn more about the ZFWC’s ongoing state policy efforts

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Launches State Policy Pilot with New Jersey and Pennsylvania Partners](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-launches-state-policy-pilot-with-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-partners/)

Nov 21, 2025

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is proud to announce the launch of its State Policy Pilot Program in partnership with a team of food waste policy leaders in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Through these two projects, ZFWC will provide one year of tailored technical…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-launches-state-policy-pilot-with-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-partners/)

### [ZFWC Launches New Technical Assistance Opportunity for State Food Waste Policy](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-new-technical-assistance-opportunity-for-state-food-waste-policy/)

Sep 4, 2025

The Coalition seeks proposals from community-based organizations, nonprofits, coalitions, businesses, and local, state, and tribal government agencies that are ready to advance policies that address food waste and strengthen local food systems. About the Opportunity…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-new-technical-assistance-opportunity-for-state-food-waste-policy/)

### [Zero Food Waste Coalition Releases Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Toolkit; Encourages Prioritization of Food Loss & Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-releases-climate-pollution-reduction-grants-toolkit-encourages/)

Dec 1, 2023

Over the past few months, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) has been encouraging and assisting organizations in asking their local agencies to prioritize initiatives designed to combat food loss and waste through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRGs). The…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-releases-climate-pollution-reduction-grants-toolkit-encourages/)

[« Older Entries](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1789184918.1095390319824218750000&et_blog)

Read More about ZFWC's Policy Efforts

---

### [Become a Member](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/become-a-member/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## Thank you for your interest in the Zero Food Waste Coalition!

Members of Zero Food Waste Coalition can help drive action around policy priorities and support advocacy efforts. They also have the opportunity to join the State Working Group or the Federal Policy Working Group to further participate in the Coalition’s initiatives.

Please complete the interest form below to be considered. Applications are reviewed every two months. If you have any questions or concerns, [review our FAQS](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/Downloads/ZFWC_New_Member_FAQ_2024.pdf) or contact [general@zfwc.org](mailto:zfwcoalition@gmail.com)

[Complete The Interest Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFy-8pvxsApNdC3x4ahSkNB41Th8nG2a52UHg9EhZXo96Csw/viewform)

This form is hosted and maintained by Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) member, Harvard University. Your name, email, and organization information is required in order to follow up with you concerning Coalition issues and activities, such as meeting and working group invitations, and announcements. We may share this information with ZFWC Steering Committee members NRDC, WWF, Harvard, ReFED, in order to provide engagement opportunities with the ZFWC aligned with your interest. You will be subscribed to ZFWC's general email list, and may also be contacted about opportunities that align with your interest areas selected below. By submitting your information, you consent to the uses described above. You may request to have your information updated or deleted at any time.

---

### [Contact Us](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/contact-us/)

**Published:** May 1, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## Contact the Coalition

**If you have questions, feedback, or other thoughts to share with the Zero Food Waste Coalition, please email [general@zfwc.org](mailto:zfwcoalition@gmail.com)**. A member of our team will get back to you shortly!

- [Follow](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-food-waste-coalition/ "Follow on LinkedIn")Follow us to stay up to date with our progress.

---

### [Federal Food Donation Liability Protections](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/federal-food-donation-liability-protections/)

**Published:** June 4, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Excerpt:** Learn how the Food Donation Improvement Act expanded Good Samaritan protections to help businesses and organizations donate surplus food with confidence.

**Content:**

# Federal Food Donation Liability Protections

In January 2023, President Biden signed the [Food Donation Improvement Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/5329/text) (FDIA) into law. The bill was passed with help from the Zero Food Waste Coalition, the Healthy Living Coalition, and a groundswell of food rescue organizations and food businesses. The FDIA updates the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Act to expand liability protections for food in two new important ways:

1. Liability protections now cover nonprofit organizations and others that provide donated food products at a low price (an amount that covers the cost of handling, administering, and distributing the food). This means that food pantries and other food distribution sites have the option to charge a small amount of money for food to help cover their operational costs.
2. Liability protections now cover qualified direct donors (e.g. schools, restaurants, caterers, grocery stores, farmers) who donate good food directly to individuals or groups other than nonprofits. Previously, liability protections were only afforded to qualified donors if they donated the food via a 501c3 organization.

To help spread the word about the liability protections that exist for food donors and to encourage more food donation, we developed a series of short informational videos featuring Chef Tom Colicchio. Creating a food donation program for your restaurant or food business doesn’t have to be time-consuming or stressful.

Just The Facts

Runaway Bride

Listen to Grandma

Voicemail Change

Please see the other downloads and related resources below on this page to help get started as well, and to find local places in your area to donate food, please visit [Food Rescue Locator](https://foodrescuelocator.com/).

Other resources:

- [A Donor's Guide to the Enhanced Federal Tax Deduction for Food Donation](https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/food-donation-federal-tax-deduction-guide-201803.pdf) (NRDC)
- [Federal Liability Protection for Food Donation: Legal Fact Sheet](https://chlpi.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Emerson-Act-Legal-Fact-Sheet.pdf) (CHLPI)

---

### [Enable Surplus Food Donation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/enable-surplus-food-donation/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

#### 👈 Previous Action

#### Return to Overview

#### Next Action 👉

[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf)

## 2 - Enable Surplus Food Donation

Nationally, less than 10% of food is donated rather than wasted. In 2020, the sudden demand shift at the onset of COVID-19 exposed the inflexible and siloed nature of existing supply chains, when canceled contracts (in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, for example) left surplus food stranded on American farms—even as demand at food banks and grocery stores skyrocketed. To help farmers become more resilient, profitable, and capable of donating food that would otherwise be lost, the USDA should develop stronger regional food supply chains that: 1) empower farmers to sell through new direct-to-consumer distribution channels, and 2) provide fresh produce and nutritious foods to the growing number of families facing hunger. Congress should also revise donation policies to make it easier for retailers and food service organizations to donate excess food to food rescue organizations.

## Policy Recommendations

### A - Expand the Federal Enhanced Tax Deduction for Food Donation to Include Non-Profit Sales and Transport

#### (Congress)

Under current law, the federal enhanced tax deduction for food donations can only be claimed when food is donated to a non-profit that does not charge the end recipient for the food. Expanding the federal tax deduction can incentivize donations to more recipients, including social supermarkets that sell donated food at an extremely discounted price or food rescue organizations that charge recipients a minimal fee to help offset the costs of home delivery. Adding transport services for donated food as a separate cost eligible for an enhanced tax deduction will also help overcome one of the most expensive barriers for businesses and food rescue organizations to get excess food to those in need.

### B - Enable Greater Food Donation by Farmers

#### (Congress)

The existing federal enhanced tax deduction for food donations is not well-suited to farmers and is not often claimed by them, as many farmers operate at low profit margins and do not make enough income to claim a tax deduction. Further, the calculation of the value of the deduction is very onerous for farmers. To incentivize farmers to donate surplus crops and offset some of the costs of donation (including labor), Congress could provide an alternative tax credit that farmers could opt to claim instead of the existing enhanced deduction. Congress could also appropriate additional funds to support programs—such as the Farm to Food Bank Program created within The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) in the 2018 Farm Bill—to help cover the harvesting, processing, packaging, and transportation costs of donating agricultural products to local food banks.

### C - Strengthen Liability Protections for Food Donation

#### (Congress)

To encourage food donation, Congress could strengthen [liability protections for food donation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/federal-food-donation-liability-protections/) in a number of ways, including: 1) broadening protections to include food items sold at a low cost and “direct donations,” or food donations offered directly from certain food business donors to end recipients; 2) granting administrative authority of the Federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act to USDA and directing USDA to write regulations that clarify the language of the Act; and, 3) requiring USDA to implement an education campaign on donation liability protection for potential food donors and food rescue organizations.

### D - Clarify Guidance on Food Safety for Donations

#### (FDA, Congress)

US federal food safety legislation and regulations developed by FDA and USDA generally do not mention the food safety practices that should be followed for food donations, leading to confusion and varying rules in different states and localities. These laws and agency regulations should be updated to feature donation-specific chapters—on topics such as temperature, transportation, and labeling of donated foods. In December 2020, USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) published draft guidance along these lines that lays out the food safety protocols for meat or poultry to be donated from FSIS-inspected facilities. FDA should follow suit with guidance on food safety protocols for donations from FDA-inspected facilities. As retail and foodservice establishments are licensed and inspected under state law rather than federal law, with guidance provided by the FDA Food Code, FDA also should provide guidance for states and localities on food safety for donated food. Such guidance can help promote more uniformity in state and local regulations around food safety for donations, and can also inform food donation practices by national food businesses. In the absence of action by the FDA, Congress should require FDA to publish such guidance.

### E - Continue to Create Alternative Market Channels for Producers and Consumers

#### (USDA, Congress)

At the start of the pandemic, the USDA took emergency measures, such as the Farmers to Families Food Box program, to help farmers find new distribution channels for unprecedented levels of surplus. This created new supply lines between distributors, farms, food banks, other nonprofits, and families in need. Anti-hunger experts believe that up to 50% of food bank supplies came from these emergency programs during a time when demand for food at food banks increased 60% and as many as one in four American adults were facing hunger. Federal policymakers should incorporate learnings from pandemic-era programs into traditional assistance programs such as TEFAP. Congress and USDA should also work to ensure that SNAP benefit amounts are adequate to ensure a nutritious diet and to support the roll-out of technology that allows small-scale producers, independent retailers, farmers, and farmers markets to participate as vendors in online SNAP markets (building on the support from Congress in the American Rescue Plan). These efforts can help to increase the food security of SNAP participants, ensure small producers maintain market opportunities for their nutritious foods, and strengthen regional supply chains.

### F - Establish New Positions for Regional Supply Chain Coordinators

#### (USDA, Congress)

A lack of real-time food supply data has led to an inability to efficiently find and transport food from where it is grown or stored to where it is needed most. In addition to investing in more transparent and centralized waste information flows, there is a critical need to invest in new positions within the USDA and with trusted partners to achieve supply chain resiliency goals. Regional Supply Chain Coordinators would oversee the efficiency and adaptability of regional food supply chains by aggregating critical data sources on surplus products, stranded assets, and gaps in cold storage and distribution infrastructure. These positions could be especially effective in bringing federal funding and assistance to food deserts and other communities facing barriers to access.

[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf)

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### [Standardize National Date Labeling](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/standardize-national-date-labeling/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

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[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

## 5 - Standardize National Date Labeling

Date label confusion is one of the leading causes of consumer food waste, estimated to drive nearly 85% of Americans to prematurely toss food that is still safe to eat. Lack of consistency in labels contributes to additional waste among grocery stores and other consumer-facing businesses and unnecessarily restricts the safe donation of nutritious foods past their date labels to food rescue organizations. Recent voluntary initiatives in the US have coalesced around the standard labels “BEST if Used By” for food’s peak quality and “USE By” for food safety. This standardization only works, however, if there is full adoption across the industry and education of consumers on how to interpret these labels. Without standardization at the federal level, current laws in more than half of our states restrict the ability for businesses to use these two standard labels and limit capacity for streamlined public education.

## Policy Recommendations

### A - Pass the Food Date Labeling Act

#### (Congress)

Under current law, the federal enhanced tax deduction for food donations can only be claimed when food is donated to a non-profit that does not charge the end recipient for the food. Expanding the federal tax deduction can incentivize donations to more recipients, including social supermarkets that sell donated food at an extremely discounted price or food rescue organizations that charge recipients a minimal fee to help offset the costs of home delivery. Adding transport services for donated food as a separate cost eligible for an enhanced tax deduction will also help overcome one of the most expensive barriers for businesses and food rescue organizations to get excess food to those in need.

[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

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---

### [Educate and Activate Consumers](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/educate-and-activate-consumers/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

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[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

## 4 -Educate and Activate Consumers

The largest amount of FLW in the US occurs at the household level (37%). Waste reduction efforts must empower residents to change their behaviors everywhere that they eat. Recent polling confirms that the overwhelming majority of Americans believe food waste is a critical issue, which over 80% of respondents said they are taking steps to address at home. Yet American household food waste per capita is not declining fast enough, and more must be done to educate consumers on the steps they can take to reduce their waste at home. Coordinating these campaigns with key interventions that businesses can implement can also drive consumers towards better food management and reduce GHG emissions by 34 MMTCO2e annually.

## Policy Recommendations

### A - Fund Research and Awareness Campaigns to Reduce Consumer Food Waste

#### (Congress, USDA, EPA, FDA)

Congress should fund $3 million annually through 2030—with $1 million for research into effective consumer food waste reduction strategies and $2 million into consumer-facing behavior change campaigns. The UK, South Korea, and others have demonstrated that coordinated public campaigns to educate consumers on food waste reduction strategies can provide straightforward savings to government agencies, businesses, and consumers. Policymakers can leverage existing national ad campaigns like NRDC’s Save The Food, social marketing campaigns like the US EPA’s Food Too Good To Waste, consumer education provided by FDA through web resources and consumer education animated shorts, as well as sector toolkits (developed by WWF for restaurants, hotels, hospitality, and schools) to build unified campaigns to drive awareness and action. Additional research is needed to determine which household activities have the biggest impact in reducing household food waste. Congress should fund household food waste reduction research in alignment with the recommendations from the National Academies of Science’s recent report: A National Strategy to Reduce Food Waste at the Consumer Level. The USDA Food Loss and Waste Liaison, in coordination with EPA, FDA, and across USDA agencies, should ultimately oversee these efforts.

### B - Pass the School Food Recovery Act

#### (Congress, USDA)

The bipartisan School Food Recovery Act introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Dan Newhouse (R-Washington) in the 116th Congress would direct the USDA to provide funding for schools to engage in FLW efforts—enlisting teachers and students to turn cafeterias into classrooms by measuring and reducing their waste, publicly aggregating and reporting waste data, and driving greater awareness of FLW solutions across our communities. This model has already been piloted and studied through WWF’s “Food Waste Warrior” and NRDC’s “True Food, No Waste” programs. These programs have demonstrated the possibilities in decreasing student plate waste, increasing students’ fruit and vegetable consumption, and cutting down on cafeteria plastic and packaging waste.

[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

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---

### [Show US Leadership at Home and Abroad](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/show-us-leadership-at-home-and-abroad/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

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[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

## 3 - Show US Leadership at Home and Abroad

Redesigning food systems and reducing waste can generate enormous benefits for people and nature. The US has re-entered the Paris Agreement and an important priority of the Biden administration's climate plan is decarbonizing the food and agriculture sector. Fixing long-standing social, environmental, and supply chain issues in the food system is critical to the administration’s climate and COVID-19 recovery objectives. The US has one of the world’s highest levels of food waste per capita, and it is vital for the nation’s food security, climate, and recovery objectives that the administration double-down on its FLW goals.

## Policy Recommendations

### A - Embed FLW Reduction in US Nationally Determined Contribution

#### (Administration)

Taking sufficient steps to meet the US commitment to reduce FLW by 50% by 2030 can lower US GHG emissions by 75 MMTCO2e per year. The administration should formally recognize this potential by making FLW reduction a part of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) toward the Paris Agreement. The federal interagency effort to reduce food waste is already aligned to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3 to reduce FLW 50% by 2030, and the administration is well-positioned to lead by advancing FLW reduction alongside other climate solutions. Doing so would also send a market signal for states, cities, and companies to similarly make FLW reduction an official part of their climate strategies.

### B - Require Federal Facilities to Measure, Rescue, Recycle, and Prevent Organic Waste, and to Purchase Finished Compost Products

#### (Administration, Congress)

The federal government can send a clear market signal by requiring federal facilities to divert all organic waste from landfills and incinerators. Government entities and agencies should be required to measure and annually report on the progress of a food waste action plan to prevent food from being wasted, rescue and donate surplus food, and recycle food scraps—all of which can also save the government money by eliminating waste. The existing Federal Food Donation Act of 2008 requires federal agencies to encourage federal contractors to donate excess food, yet it does not require such donations and does not stipulate that agency food donations be tracked or monitored in any way. Congress should amend the Act to instead have agencies require in their contracts that contractors donate safe surplus food, and add a reporting requirement to incentivize more food donation. Secondly, the Sustainable Acquisition Policy should be updated to require federal agencies to purchase compost made from diverted organic waste materials per the EPA’s existing guidance, giving preference to small business, women- or minority-owned composting facilities.

### C - Fund and Incentivize FLW Innovation

#### (Congress)

Congress should allocate $50 million in grants for FLW research and innovation n (that could be overseen via the Federal Interagency Food Loss and Waste Collaboration) to accelerate efforts by state and local governments, food businesses, and NGOs to pilot new interventions that effectively prevent FLW. Funding could also be used to target the development of food donation and recycling infrastructure to underserved areas. The EPA Excess Foods Opportunity Map showcases food banks, anaerobic digesters, and composting facilities to enable food businesses to better divert their surplus food and food scraps. It also makes visible the regions and states that are most lacking in donation and recycling infrastructure, where investment is most needed.

### D - Boost Funding for the Federal Interagency Effort to Reduce Food Waste

#### (Congress)

The Federal Interagency Food Loss and Waste Collaboration is a joint effort launched by the FDA, USDA, and EPA in which the three agencies affirm their shared commitment to work towards the national goal of reducing FLW by 50% by 2030. To meet the initiative’s target, it will take at least $2 million in funding for additional personnel to oversee the program and competitive grant funding outlined in this action plan.

[Download the Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/us_food_loss_waste_policy_action_plan_full_final_9/)

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---

### [Invest in Prevention and Keep Waste out of Landfills](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/invest-in-prevention-and-keep-waste-out-of-landfills/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** zerofoodwaste1

**Content:**

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[Download The Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf)

## 1 - Invest in Prevention and Keep Waste out of Landfills

Food is the single largest input by weight into US landfills and incinerators, where it causes social and environmental harm. Investing in infrastructure and programs that measure and prevent waste, incentivize rescue of surplus and safe excess food, and keep it out of landfills will help achieve climate gains, improve our country's soils, boost profits for farmers, and feed more people. As Congress and the administration consider priority investments in US infrastructure and economic recovery, they should expand investments in and incentives for waste prevention, measurement, donation, waste-to-animal feed, organics recycling, composting, and anaerobic digestion. The stated objective of these investments should be to measure, rescue, recycle, and prevent 50% of organic waste from entering landfills and incinerators by 2030. Expanding food waste management infrastructure has the highest potential of any FLW solution to generate new jobs (an estimated 18,000 jobs annually through 2030). This infrastructure can also reduce the country’s annual emissions by 5.8 MMTCO2e,10 return nutrients to degraded soils on American farms and public lands, and boost profitability for American farmers and ranchers. Most importantly, diversion from landfills and incinerators coupled with better measurement can accelerate FLW prevention. The US EPA’s Food Waste Hierarchy prioritizes source reduction and practices that ensure surplus food is fed to hungry people before organics recycling efforts. Most successful organic waste management policies include provisions, funding, or technical assistance to measure FLW, prevent food from becoming waste, and incentivize rescue of surplus food.

## Policy Recommendations

### Offer Funding for States and Cities that Incentivizes Organic Waste Measurement, Rescue, Recycling, and Prevention

#### (Congress, Administration)

Provide annual funding through 2030 to support state- and city-level investment in infrastructure and other costs associated with implementing plans for organic waste measurement, rescue, recycling, and prevention that meet pre-defined quality standards. California has implemented a leading model for its jurisdictions and already invested $140 million in organic waste infrastructure funding. Policy options for states and cities looking to follow a similar model include organic waste landfill bans or organic waste recycling requirements; mandated food scrap recycling; Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) policies that disincentivize landfilling and incineration as opposed to recycling and composting organics; a landfill tax per unit of trash added to the existing tipping fee; and policies that stimulate demand for compost or promote organic waste prevention and food rescue. Organic waste bans have shown particular promise in reducing food waste in landfills—with a demonstrated impact in food waste prevention, donation, and recycling. For example, Vermont saw food donation triple after implementing its organic waste ban, and Massachusetts documented a 22% increase in donation. To accelerate the widespread adoption of these strategies and build the nation’s organic waste recycling infrastructure, the administration and Congress should provide $650 million in annual funding for states and cities through at least 2030.

### Require the Development of Food Waste Measurement Planning and Transparency

#### (Congress, EPA)

As the saying goes, you can’t manage what you don’t measure. Today, state- and city-level waste characterization studies are conducted periodically (typically every five years), with few requirements for waste haulers and businesses to regularly report waste generation data publicly. High-quality organic waste measurement, rescue, recycling, and prevention plans by cities and states should include a strategy to aggregate, anonymize, and publicly report monthly or quarterly waste generation data through centralized databases like the ReFED Insights Engine. This reporting will introduce much-needed transparency and establish more timely monitoring of organic waste generation. The data can then be used by states and cities to develop detailed plans for organic waste recycling infrastructure requirements and prevention strategies and to track their progress.

### Build Demand for Compost

#### (USDA, Congress)

In parallel with the efforts to divert organic waste to compost instead of landfills, policymakers should help stimulate demand for finished compost products. This should include updating the USDA’s definition of compost products so that a greater number of potential buyers (such as farms, golf courses, or other operations near waterways) are encouraged to purchase compost; developing a marketing campaign to build compost demand; and streamlining the compost contracting process (e.g., by helping to match compost generators with potential buyers). Congress should reauthorize and expand appropriations for the recent Community Compost and Food Waste Reduction pilot projects, authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, through which the USDA invested $1 million into 13 projects to develop and implement municipal compost and food waste reduction strategies—with an emphasis on making compost accessible to farmers.

### Fund Development of Public-Private Partnerships

#### (Congress)

Public-private sector partnerships can accelerate food waste reduction, with an estimated 80:1 return. The Pacific Coast Collaborative’s West Coast Voluntary Agreement to Reduce Wasted Food and NRDC’s Food Matters project show how cities, states, and businesses can work together pre-competitively to share best practices, discuss common-sense policymaking, and address shared sustainability challenges around FLW. Congress should allocate $50 million in funding for cities and states to apply to develop these partnerships, which could be managed through the federal interagency effort to reduce food waste.

### Eliminate Barriers to Feeding Food Scraps to Animals

#### (USDA, FDA)

Many restaurants, grocery stores, food manufacturers, and small and large farms produce food scraps that are no longer suitable for human consumption but are still safe and wholesome for animals. To support more uniformity and science-based regulations on this process, FDA and USDA should provide guidance and technical assistance to states on optimal regulations regarding feeding food scraps to animals, which state governments can use to review and eliminate any overly stringent restrictions or bans in place today.

[Download The Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf)

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---

### [Supporting Organic Waste Processing Infrastructure](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-supporting-organic-waste-processing-infrastructure/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

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# Supporting Organic Waste Processing Infrastructure

[Download This Toolkit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-3/)

*This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.*

This section introduces a policy that can help states support and develop composting infrastructure to ensure there is sufficient capacity to recycle food scraps. This section includes:

### Model State Policies

#### A Permitting and Zoning for Composting and Anaerobic Digestion Facilities

One primary challenge for composting and AD facilities is zoning and permitting—finding sites that are zoned to allow for composting (especially if the feedstock includes food scraps) and then securing necessary permits to collect and recycle organics on-site. Composting facilities typically need zoning approval from the local government and often need a solid waste facility permit or a source separated organics composting permit to accept food waste, both of which can pose barriers. As states encourage more food scraps recycling or pass laws to prohibit landfilling food waste, there are crucial steps they can take to support composting and AD infrastructure through permitting and zoning processes. These best practices include:

- Creating separate regulatory pathways for food scraps composting or AD
- Implementing a tiered system for permitting and operational requirements
- Exempting small-scale and on-site facilities from permitting requirements
- Facilitating favorable local zoning

#### B Recycling Food Scraps into Animal Feed

For centuries, using food scraps as animal feed has been common worldwide.256 This practice has several environmental and economic benefits. Environmentally, diverting food scraps to animal feed is an extremely efficient method of recycling food waste and reducing methane emissions, so much so that it is the third rung on the EPA’s food recovery hierarchy. Today, federal regulations function as a regulatory floor, laying out minimum animal feed standards necessary to protect human and animal health. Legislators should review their laws and regulations, remove overly restrictive requirements, and provide support and education to create a regime that encourages innovative models that safely recycle food scraps into animal feed, while still protecting animal and human health. Specifically, states should:

- Eliminate any laws that ban the feeding of food scraps to animals
- Encourage state agencies to re-evaluate existing authority to support the development of facilities recycling food scraps into animal feed
- Eliminate requirements for heat-treating non-animal-derived scraps
- Replace the pejorative name “garbage” with a more neutral term such as “food scraps”
- Provide guidance and education on laws and regulations
- Encourage partnerships with local farms
- Provide funding to support recycling food scraps into animal feed

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### [Preventing Food Waste Upstream](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-preventing-food-waste-upstream/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

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# Preventing Food Waste Upstream

[Download This Toolkit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-5/)

*This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.*

This section outlines policies to prevent food waste upstream, including reforming date labels to prevent safe, wholesome food from being thrown away due to confusion. This section includes:

### Model State Policies

#### A Date Labeling

Date labels are found on most food products in the United States. Typically, the date is preceded by one of several phrases including, but not limited to, “sell by,” “best before,” “use by,” and “freeze by.” Despite what many consumers may think, these dates are not regulated by the federal government and are generally intended as indicators of quality rather than safety. Although these dates generally do not reflect food safety, research shows that consumers rely on date labels when deciding whether to throw away food. The uncertainty surrounding date labels contributes to wasteful behaviors, missed opportunities for donation, and overflowing landfills. While state action cannot eradicate date label inconsistences, state legislation can minimize problems associated with the current date labeling system to fight unnecessary food waste. A successful state date labeling law would:

- Differentiate between quality and safety labels
- Standardize language
- Consider mandating safety labeling
- Explicitly permit donation and sale of food past the quality date
- Provide consumer education

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### [Developing End Markets for Compost](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-developing-end-markets-for-compost/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

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# Developing End Markets for Compost

[Download This Toolkit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-4/)

This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.

This section introduces policies that can help states support end markets for finished compost products resulting from composting food scraps, to make the financial case for increased recycling of food scraps. This section includes:

### Model State Policies

#### A Compost Procurement

A primary way to develop an end market for compost is to use the government’s purchasing power to support local composting facilities by requiring the government to procure compost or prioritizing the purchasing of compost over other soil amendment products. Procurement policy is a powerful tool for aligning public spending with government policy objectives and promoting beneficial practices in private industry. While compost procurement policies are relatively new, the existing local and state examples incorporate the following best practices:

- Covering the maximum number of government agencies
- Setting targets for amount of compost to purchase
- Using an established standard for compost quality
- Prioritizing local compost
- Outlining uses for compost
- Requiring recordkeeping and reporting

#### B Incentivize Compost Application

Application of compost on farmland has significant environmental and carbon sequestration benefits. Applying compost helps improve overall soil health, increasing soil organic matter, its biodiversity, and its capacity to absorb water and nutrients, and reducing the need for expensive and resource-intensive chemical fertilizers. Applying compost to farmland not only benefits soil, but can also have carbon sequestration effects, mitigating the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions. Lastly, programs incentivizing compost application can help create an end market for local compost products and thus support the development and growth of food scraps recycling infrastructure. A state interested in implementing a program should consider the following best practices:

- Allocating funding
- Ensuring application accessibility
- Prioritizing marginalized producers
- Utilizing an established standard for compost quality
- Prioritizing application of compost made with food scraps

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### [Building and Broadening Organic Waste Bans and Beyond](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-building-and-broadening-organic-waste-bans-and-beyond/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

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# Building and Broadening Organic Waste Bans and Beyond

[Download This ToolKit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-1/)

*This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.*

This section introduces policies to eliminate food waste from landfills. These policies include organic waste bans and mandatory organics recycling laws, food donation requirements, mandatory reporting laws that require entities to report on food waste generation to help develop data to support organic waste bans or planning for recycling infrastructure, and disposal surcharge fees that raise revenue for food waste diversion efforts like organic waste bans.

### Model State Policies

#### A Organic Waste Bans

Organic waste bans are a category of laws and regulatory requirements that restrict the amount of organic waste or food waste that can be disposed of in landfills or incinerators and/or require that food waste generators divert organic waste. Organic waste bans are one of the most effective tools policymakers have at their disposal to change the way businesses and consumers manage and value their organic waste. State government studies show that the benefits of waste bans include job creation and emissions reduction. In general, a successful state organic waste ban should:

- Apply a tiered and phased-in approach
- Grant only limited waivers and exemptions, if at all
- Delegate implementation, specify enforcement authority, and promote outreach to generators
- Provide grants for food waste reduction efforts

#### B Food Donation Requirements

As the name suggests, food donation requirements mandate that certain generators of surplus food redirect safe food to people or other recovery and recycling pathways rather than disposal. Mandating food donation is hugely impactful not only for diverting waste from disposal and incineration, but also for feeding people, supporting food rescue, and changing the culture around food waste. That said, donation requirements are complicated to implement and require significant effort and funding, particularly to build up food rescue capacity. While growing globally, food donation requirements are still novel policies in the United States. Despite the newness of these policies, best practices are emerging, and future food donation requirements should:

- Require donation of food that meets health and safety requirements and recycling of any remaining food scraps
- Apply a tiered and phased-in approach
- Perform capacity planning and provide grants for food recovery organizations
- Promote education and outreach
- Coordinate policy execution with local jurisdictions
- Monitor and track outcomes

#### C Mandatory Reporting Laws

Measurement is necessary for management, and food loss and waste is currently under-measured. This impacts states’ ability to understand and address the issue through policies like organic waste bans or donation requirements. A statewide mandatory reporting law would require large businesses and organizations to report the amount of surplus food and food waste that they generate. A successful mandatory reporting law should incorporate the following best practices:

- Limiting covered entities
- Requiring sufficient detail to meet needs
- Giving flexible methods for quantification and offer support
- Educating covered entities and provide compliance assistance

#### D Disposal Surcharge Fees

Used in many states for decades, disposal surcharge fees (sometimes referred to as landfill taxes) are a per-ton fee added by the government to the tipping fees charged at waste disposal sites, such as landfills and incinerators. While each disposal surcharge and its impact on food waste diversion will necessarily vary depending on a state’s needs, best practices include:

- Committing funds to food waste prevention and diversion efforts
- Investing money back into local communities
- Revisiting fees periodically

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### [Other Governmental Action to Address Food Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-other-governmental-action-to-address-food-waste/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

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# Other Governmental Action to Address Food Waste

[Download This Toolkit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-6/)

This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.

This section outlines other governmental policies and actions that states can take to reduce food waste, including food waste efforts in K-12 schools, climate and solid waste action plans, and government grants and support. This section includes:

### Model State Policies

#### A Food Waste Reduction in K-12 Schools

Many factors can contribute to food waste in schools, including the timing of lunch, school serving patterns, need for more robust infrastructure, lack of appetizing foods in cafeterias, and apprehension about donation. Some amount of waste is inevitable, as schools may try to expose children to new healthy foods and it sometimes takes multiple exposures for kids to eat new foods. That being said, there are many opportunities to reduce school food waste—requiring measuring and tracking of food waste via waste audits, promoting donation of surplus food in schools via share tables and in the community via food donation, and composting food scraps. States have the ability to incentivize, encourage, fund, or mandate such practices via state-level legislation. A successful school food waste law would:

- Specify which school foods can be donated and how
- Include liability protections for food donations
- Mandate share tables in K-12 schools
- Mandate that schools donate surplus food and/or compost food scraps
- Fund education programming and equipment upgrades
- Require or support food waste audits

#### B Climate and Solid Waste Plans

A climate action plan sets clear targets for addressing climate change and establishes clear pathways to meet those targets. Similarly, solid waste management plans set targets and a framework for achieving overall materials management and waste diversion goals. States can use climate action plans and solid waste management plans to address food waste by including food waste targets and strategies to meet those targets. These plans can best impact food waste when they:

- Feature specific targets and goals around food waste
- Stay current and updated
- Outline concrete recommendations

#### C Government Support for Food Waste Reduction

Beyond legislative action, there are a variety of ways in which state governments can support food waste reduction. State governments can fund programs and infrastructure supporting surplus food recovery, organics recycling, upcycling food into human food products, or recycling food scraps into animal feed. Governments can support recycling efforts by, for example, helping to expand composting capacity and anaerobic digestion collection and processing capacity and assisting food recovery organizations with equipment needs. There is significant space for states to create funding opportunities and provide technical assistance. Best practices for government support include:

- Creating grants for infrastructure and overhead costs associated with food recovery efforts
- Creating grants for infrastructure, product development, and market development costs associated with recycling and upcycling food
- Providing free technical assistance around food waste
- Recognizing businesses for their efforts
- Raising awareness via campaigns

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### [Opportunities to Promote Food Donation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-opportunities-to-promote-food-donation/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

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# Opportunities to Promote Food Donation

[Download This Toolkit Section and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-2/)

*This page contains a summarized version of this toolkit section. Detailed information about model policy components and federal law, state examples, and model legislation is available in the PDF linked above.*

This section introduces policies that can promote and incentivize the donation of food (aside from donation requirements highlighted in Section 1), including tax incentives, liability protection, and food safety for food donation. This section includes:

### Model State Policies

#### A Liability Protections for Food Donation

Donating safe, surplus food can significantly reduce the amount of food sent to disposal while simultaneously supporting food security goals. Despite the many benefits of food donation, potential donors cite fear of liability as a major deterrent to donating food. Although fear of liability is common, there has been no known litigation related to food donation liability, and both federal and state law provide robust liability protections for food donors. Liability protections vary substantially across states, but ideally, a state food donor liability protection law would offer the following protections to build on the federal protections:

- Including past date foods
- Permitting donation regardless of non-safety labeling
- Requiring guidance on protection offered

#### B Tax Incentives for Food Donation

Because it is often cheaper to dump food than donate it, cost is a main reason that businesses fail to donate excess food. Donation costs include the time and money associated with sorting, packaging, storing, and transporting surplus food. Tax incentives can increase food donation by supporting businesses, like farms, to recover some of their production costs by donating wholesome but unsellable food. Furthermore, tax incentives are a cost-effective policy because the government only pays them out after food is donated. States can improve the reach of tax incentives by tailoring them to the needs of local businesses and farmers. Best practices include:

- Structuring as a tax credit (versus a deduction)
- Tailoring the tax incentive to meet the state’s needs
- Placing only reasonable limits on the amount of tax incentive each year
- Basing credit value on fair market value:
- Permitting tax incentives when end recipients pay for food
- Offering an additional tax credit for transportation and processing costs

#### C Food Safety Guidance for Food Donation

Lack of clear food safety guidance poses a challenge to potential food donors. The food safety laws that apply to food establishments—like restaurants, cafeterias, and retail stores—vary by state and locality. Uncertainty related to food safety coupled with lack of guidance means potential donors are unwilling to donate. As a result, safe and wholesome food is dumped instead of donated. To minimize confusion and increase food donation, states should incorporate a uniform, specific food donation section into their food safety legislation or regulations and this section should outline requirements in explicit terms to provide clarity to potential food donors and food recovery organizations. For maximum impact, relevant agencies should also train health inspectors on food safety for donations and disseminate guidance to potential food donors. Successful state legislation or regulation on food safety for food donations would:

- Create a specific section on food donation
- Provide clarity over which foods may be donated
- Outline which foods may not be donated
- Require training for health inspectors
- Circulate additional guidance documents

#### 👈 Previous Action

#### Return to Overview

#### Next Action 👉

---

### [Achieving Zero Food Waste: A State Policy Toolkit](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/state-toolkit/)

**Published:** May 6, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## Achieving Zero Food Waste: A State Policy Toolkit

[Download the Full Toolkit and Model Legislation](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc_state_toolkit/)

![drawing of a banana](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/banana.png "banana - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 1

### Building and Broadening Organic Waste Bans and Beyond

This section introduces policies to eliminate food waste from landfills. These policies include organic waste bans and mandatory organics recycling laws, food donation requirements, mandatory reporting laws that require entities to report on food waste generation to help develop data to support organic waste bans or planning for recycling infrastructure, and disposal surcharge fees that raise revenue for food waste diversion efforts like organic waste bans. This section includes:

1. Organic Waste Bans
2. Food Donation Requirements
3. Mandatory Reporting Laws
4. Disposal Surcharge Fees

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-building-and-broadening-organic-waste-bans-and-beyond/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-1/)

![Drawing of a basket of feed](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-Basket.png "Food Basket - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 2

### Opportunities to Promote Food Donation

This section introduces policies that can promote and incentivize the donation of food (aside from donation requirements highlighted in Section 1), including tax incentives, liability protection, and food safety for food donation. This section includes:

1. Liability Protections for Food Donation
2. Tax Incentives for Food Donation
3. Food Safety Guidance for Food Donation

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-opportunities-to-promote-food-donation/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-2/)

![Drawing of a recycling truck](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/garbage-truck.png "garbage truck - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 3

### Supporting Organic Waste Processing Infrastructure

This section introduces a policy that can help states support and develop composting infrastructure to ensure there is sufficient capacity to recycle food scraps. This section includes:

1. Permitting and Zoning for Composting and Anaerobic Digestion Facilities
2. Recycling Food Scraps into Animal Feed

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-supporting-organic-waste-processing-infrastructure/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-3/)

![drawing of a farmhouse and farm field](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/farm.png "farm - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 4

### Developing End Markets for Compost

This section introduces policies that can help states support end markets for finished compost products resulting from composting food scraps, to make the financial case for increased recycling of food scraps. This section includes:

1. Compost Procurement
2. Incentivize Compost Application

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-developing-end-markets-for-compost/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-4/)

![Drawing of a hand inside an octagon signaling stop](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/StopSign.png "StopSign - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 5

### Preventing Food Waste Upstream

This section outlines policies to prevent food waste upstream, including reforming date labels to prevent safe, wholesome food from being thrown away due to confusion. This section includes:

1. Date Labeling

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-preventing-food-waste-upstream/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-5/)

![drawing of the earth with a plant growing in the foreground](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Globe.png "Globe - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

### Section 6

### Other Governmental Action to Address Food Waste

This section outlines other governmental policies and actions that states can take to reduce food waste, including food waste efforts in K-12 schools, climate and solid waste action plans, and government grants and support. This section includes:

1. Food Waste Reduction in K-12 Schools
2. Climate and Solid Waste Plans
3. Government Support for Food Waste Reduction

[Read More](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/section-other-governmental-action-to-address-food-waste/)

[DOWNLOAD this Section](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/flpc-waste-reduction-tool-kit-section-6/)

---

### [U.S. Food Loss & Waste Policy Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/food-waste-action-plan/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## U.S. Food Loss & Waste Policy Action Plan

The **[Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/)** strongly believes that building a regenerative and resilient food system will take public and private leadership in both the national and international communities. Because of this, the coalition calls on the administration and Congress to take ambitious action to achieve national and international goals to reduce food loss and waste 50% by 2030 through the following five key actions:

## Invest in Prevention and Keep Waste out of Landfills

Food is the single largest input by weight into US landfills and incinerators, where it causes social and environmental harm. Investing in infrastructure and programs that measure and prevent waste, incentivize rescue of surplus and safe excess food, and keep it out of landfills will help achieve climate gains, improve our country's soils, boost profits for farmers, and feed more people.

- Offer Funding for States and Cities that Incentivizes Organic Waste Measurement, Rescue, Recycling, and Prevention (Congress, Administration)
- Require the Development of Food Waste Measurement Planning and Transparency (Congress, EPA)
- Build Demand for Compost (USDA, Congress)
- Fund Development of Public-Private Partnerships (Congress)
- Eliminate Barriers to Feeding Food Scraps to Animals (USDA, FDA)

[Read more detail](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/invest-in-prevention-and-keep-waste-out-of-landfills/)

## Enable Surplus Food Donation

Less than 10% of excess food is donated rather than wasted. Through policy revisions, creating alternative markets, and strengthening regional supply chains, we can make it easier for farmers, retailers, and all foodservice organizations to donate excess food to help feed those in need in our communities.

- Expand the Federal Enhanced Tax Deduction for Food Donation to Include Non-Profit Sales and Transport (Congress)
- Enable Greater Food Donation by Farmers (Congress)
- Strengthen Liability Protections for Food Donation (Congress)
- Clarify Guidance on Food Safety for Donations (FDA, Congress)
- Continue to Create Alternative Market Channels for Producers and Consumers (USDA, Congress)
- Establish New Positions for Regional Supply Chain Coordinators (USDA, Congress)

[Read more detail](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/enable-surplus-food-donation/)

## Show US Leadership at Home and Abroad

The US has one of the world’s highest levels of food waste per person. It is vital for the nation’s food security, climate, economic, and recovery objectives that we set a leading example on how to drive solutions.

- Embed FLW Reduction in US Nationally Determined Contribution (Administration)
- Require Federal Facilities to Measure, Rescue, Recycle, and Prevent Organic Waste, and to Purchase Finished Compost Products (Administration, Congress)
- Fund and Incentivize FLW Innovation (Congress)
- Boost Funding for the Federal Interagency Effort to Reduce Food Waste (Congress)

[Read more detail](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/show-us-leadership-at-home-and-abroad/)

## Educate and Activate Consumers

37% of food waste happens at the US household level. We must educate and empower Americans to change their behaviors everywhere that they eat, in coordination with efforts in consumer-facing businesses to drive better food management.

- Fund Research and Awareness Campaigns to Reduce Consumer Food Waste (Congress, USDA, EPA, FDA)
- Pass the School Food Recovery Act (Congress, USDA)

[Read more detail](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/educate-and-activate-consumers/)

## Standardize National Date Labeling

Date label confusion is one of the leading causes of consumer and consumer-facing business food waste. We need consistent labels, standardized at the federal level, and streamlined public education on how to use and interpret.

- Pass the Food Date Labeling Act (Congress)

[Read more detail](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/standardize-national-date-labeling/)

[Download the action plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/US_Food_Loss_Waste_Policy_Action_Plan_Full_Final_9.pdf)

## Zero Food Waste Action Plan Supporters

American Hotel & Lodging Association

Baltimore City Department of Public Works

Baltimore Office of Sustainability

Bio Studio LLC

BioCycle, The Organics Recycling Authority

Blue View Hill Foodservice Equipment Consulting

Center for EcoTechnology

City and County of Denver

City of Asheville, Office of Sustainability

City of Atlanta, Mayor's Office of Resilience

City of Madison, WI

City of Orlando

City of Portland, Bureau of Planning and Sustainability

Claneil Foundation

Clean Memphis

Collaboration Connection

Companies For Zero Waste

Compass Group

Environmental Law Institute

Food Recovery Network

Food Rescue US

FoodPLUS Detroit

Go2Zero Strategies, LLC

Google

Harvard Food Law and Policy Clinic

Hazon

Healthy Way Market

Hellmann's Best Foods

Hilton

Hyatt

ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA

IDEAS For Us

Institute for Local Self-Reliance

ISS Guckenheimer

Jersey City Environmental Commission

King County Solid Waste Division

Last Mile Food Rescue

Leanpath

Make Food Not Waste

Marriott International

Natural Resources Defense Council

Novamont North America

PCC Community Markets

Persea Naturals LLC

Plant Based Products Council

ReFED

RePurpose

Rescuing Leftover Cuisine

San Diego Food System Alliance

Seattle Public Utilities

SH Hotels & Resorts

Shelf Engine

Sustainable Events Network, Florida & Caribbean

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

The City of Philadelphia Office of Sustainability

The Farmlink Project

The Food Drive

The Kroger Co.

Think Zero LLC

Too Good To Go

Unilever

Urban Green Lab

US Composting Council

Vanguard Renewables

Winnow

World Wildlife Fund

Zero Waste in DC

---

### [Reducing Food Waste in the Farm Bill](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/farm-bill/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## Reducing Food Waste in the Farm Bill

The Farm Bill, a package of legislation passed every five to seven years, has a tremendous impact on agriculture and food issues across the U.S.—meaning it's an incredible opportunity to promote long-lasting solutions to the food waste crisis. **The Zero Food Waste Coalition is advocating to ensure that Congress prioritizes food loss and waste in the Farm Bill.**

## The ZFWC’s Farm Bill Priorities are:

- Create a food loss and waste reduction office within the USDA and authorize funding for it to offer grants and support food waste reduction efforts
- Increase funding for planning and infrastructure to reduce food waste and enhance food recovery
- Fund research in food waste prevention, upcycling, and recycling solutions
- Standardize and clarify date labels

[Download our Top Priorities 2-pager](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FW_Farm_Bill_June-2024.pdf)

[Read our Open Letter to Congress](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Community-Support-Letter-Food-Waste-5.31.23.pdf)

[Read our full Farm Bill Priorities Report](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2023-Farm-Bill-Food-Waste.pdf)

---

### [Federal Food Waste Policy Actions](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/federal/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## Federal Food Waste Policy Actions

The ZFWC advocates for federal food waste policy solutions that save consumers, farmers, and businesses money; improve food security; and build more sustainable food systems.

**The Coalition is currently advocating for:**

- Our [U.S. Food Loss & Waste Policy Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/food-waste-action-plan/), which calls on the federal government to take ambitious action to achieve national and international goals to reduce food loss and waste 50% by 2030.
- Federal standardization of food date labels either through FDA and USDA joint regulation or by passing the Food Date Labeling Act.
- Congress to prioritize food loss and waste through key pieces of legislation including the NO TIME TO Waste Act, Appropriations, and Reduce Food Loss and Waste Act.

### Learn more about the ZFWC’s ongoing federal policy efforts

#### [Widespread Industry Support for the Food Date Labeling Act of 2025](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/widespread-industry-support-for-the-food-date-labeling-act-of-2025/)

Feb 20, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC Over 30 food industry supporters have signed the Zero Food Waste Coalition and Consumer Brands Association’s joint open letter calling on Congress to pass the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 (H.R.4987), (FDLA). The FDLA aims to reduce food…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/widespread-industry-support-for-the-food-date-labeling-act-of-2025/)

#### [ZFWC Submits Comment in Response to USDA and FDA’s Joint Request for Information on Food Date Labels, Invites Federal Standardization](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-submits-comment-in-response-to-usda-and-fdas-joint-request-for-information-on-food-date-labels-invites-federal-standardization/)

Mar 8, 2025

This week, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) submitted a comment in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Request for Information on Food Date Labeling. The…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-submits-comment-in-response-to-usda-and-fdas-joint-request-for-information-on-food-date-labels-invites-federal-standardization/)

#### [ZFWC Members and Partners in Florida Send Open Letter Calling on Florida Congressional Delegation to Co-Sponsor the Food Date Labeling Act](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-members-and-partners-in-florida-send-open-letter-calling-on-florida-congressional-delegation-to-co-sponsor-the-food-date-labeling-act/)

Sep 30, 2024

The Zero Food Waste Coalition, in collaboration with its members and partners in Florida, united organizations across the state in support of the federal Food Date Labeling Act (H.R.3159, S.1484). These organizations were asked to sign a letter calling on the Florida…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-members-and-partners-in-florida-send-open-letter-calling-on-florida-congressional-delegation-to-co-sponsor-the-food-date-labeling-act/)

Read more About ZFWC's Policy Efforts

---

### [In The News](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/)

**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

## In the News

## [Widespread Industry Support for the Food Date Labeling Act of 2025](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/widespread-industry-support-for-the-food-date-labeling-act-of-2025/)

Feb 20, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC Over 30 food industry supporters have signed the Zero Food Waste Coalition and Consumer Brands Association’s joint open letter calling on Congress to pass the bipartisan Food Date Labeling Act of 2025 (H.R.4987), (FDLA). The FDLA aims to reduce food…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/widespread-industry-support-for-the-food-date-labeling-act-of-2025/)

## [Zero Food Waste Coalition Launches State Policy Pilot with New Jersey and Pennsylvania Partners](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-launches-state-policy-pilot-with-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-partners/)

Nov 21, 2025

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is proud to announce the launch of its State Policy Pilot Program in partnership with a team of food waste policy leaders in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Through these two projects, ZFWC will provide one year of tailored technical…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zero-food-waste-coalition-launches-state-policy-pilot-with-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-partners/)

## [ZFWC Launches New Technical Assistance Opportunity for State Food Waste Policy](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-new-technical-assistance-opportunity-for-state-food-waste-policy/)

Sep 4, 2025

The Coalition seeks proposals from community-based organizations, nonprofits, coalitions, businesses, and local, state, and tribal government agencies that are ready to advance policies that address food waste and strengthen local food systems. About the Opportunity…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-new-technical-assistance-opportunity-for-state-food-waste-policy/)

## [ZFWC Launches a New Resource on How To Give Public Testimony](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-a-new-resource-on-how-to-give-public-testimony/)

Jul 1, 2025

Looking to take your advocacy to the next level? The Zero Food Waste Coalition’s, “How to Testify,” resource is built to empower food waste professionals, advocates, and coalition members to confidently engage in public testimony at the local, state, or federal level….

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-launches-a-new-resource-on-how-to-give-public-testimony/)

## [ZFWC Submits Comment in Response to USDA and FDA’s Joint Request for Information on Food Date Labels, Invites Federal Standardization](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-submits-comment-in-response-to-usda-and-fdas-joint-request-for-information-on-food-date-labels-invites-federal-standardization/)

Mar 8, 2025

This week, the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) submitted a comment in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Request for Information on Food Date Labeling. The…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-submits-comment-in-response-to-usda-and-fdas-joint-request-for-information-on-food-date-labels-invites-federal-standardization/)

## [ZFWC Founding Member ReFED Releases New Study Revealing Methane Hotspots Caused by Food Waste](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-founding-member-refed-releases-new-study-revealing-methane-hotspots-caused-by-food-waste/)

Oct 8, 2024

Last week, founding member of the Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC), ReFED — with support from the Global Methane Hub — released a study revealing methane hotspots from uneaten food in the U.S. The report also included corresponding solutions that can reduce food waste…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-founding-member-refed-releases-new-study-revealing-methane-hotspots-caused-by-food-waste/)

## [ZFWC Celebrates EPA’s Announcement of Funding Opportunities to Advance Recycling Infrastructure and Support Food Waste Prevention Education](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-epas-announcement-of-funding-opportunities-to-advance-recycling-infrastructure-and-support-food-waste-prevention-education/)

Sep 30, 2024

The Zero Food Waste Coalition (ZFWC) is excited to see the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) dedicate $117 million in grants focused on recycling and wasted food prevention. It’s an important step in addressing the 38% of food that goes unsold and uneaten in…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-epas-announcement-of-funding-opportunities-to-advance-recycling-infrastructure-and-support-food-waste-prevention-education/)

## [ZFWC Members and Partners in Florida Send Open Letter Calling on Florida Congressional Delegation to Co-Sponsor the Food Date Labeling Act](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-members-and-partners-in-florida-send-open-letter-calling-on-florida-congressional-delegation-to-co-sponsor-the-food-date-labeling-act/)

Sep 30, 2024

The Zero Food Waste Coalition, in collaboration with its members and partners in Florida, united organizations across the state in support of the federal Food Date Labeling Act (H.R.3159, S.1484). These organizations were asked to sign a letter calling on the Florida…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-members-and-partners-in-florida-send-open-letter-calling-on-florida-congressional-delegation-to-co-sponsor-the-food-date-labeling-act/)

## [ZFWC celebrates implementation funding awarded to three food waste projects through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-implementation-funding-awarded-to-three-food-waste-projects-through-the-climate-pollution-reduction-grants/)

Aug 22, 2024

Late last year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRGs), a two-phase program that provides $250 million for noncompetitive planning grants to develop Priority Climate Action Plans (PCAP) and Comprehensive…

[read more…](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/news/zfwc-celebrates-implementation-funding-awarded-to-three-food-waste-projects-through-the-climate-pollution-reduction-grants/)

[« Older Entries](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1789184918.1095390319824218750000&et_blog)

---

### [About the Zero Food Waste Coalition](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/about/)

**Published:** May 1, 2026
**Author:** Sarah Sivesind

**Content:**

# About the Zero Food Waste Coalition

The ZFWC formed to build alignment and momentum among food system stakeholders on innovative and impactful food loss and waste policies in the United States. The Coalition seeks to make progress towards the national goal to halve food loss and waste by 2030 by partnering with government leaders and leveraging the knowledge, best practices, and resources of a diverse set of organizations.

## Our History

**November 2020**

![drawing of two heads with a lightbulb and a leaf](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Idea.png "Idea - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

After years of working together on food loss and waste policy issues, ZFWC’s founders identify a critical opportunity to convene food system stakeholders to address food loss and waste through policy.

ZFWC’s founders launch the [U.S. Food Waste Action Plan](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/food-waste-action-plan/), now endorsed by over 60 businesses, nonprofits, and local governments.

**April 2021**

![drawing of three people creating with a shared speech bubble showing a globe](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Creating-Action-Plan.png "Creating Action Plan - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

**April 2023**

![Drawing of three people with arrows pointing up](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Build-Momentum.png "Build Momentum - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

The Coalition formalizes to build momentum and align on food waste policy, while also amplifying what any single organization could do independently.

The Coalition begins expanding membership to a diverse set of stakeholders as a part of the larger mission to build alignment and momentum on food loss and waste policy.

**June 2023**

![drawing of five people with leaves growing out the sides](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exanping-Membership.png "Exanping Membership - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

**June 2024**

![Drawing of three people with arrows pointing up](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Build-Momentum.png "Build Momentum - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

After only one year as a Coalition, ZFWC had over 180 members - including retailers, manufacturers, food delivery companies, food recovery organizations, waste management organizations, state and local governments, associations, and academic institutions.

As of August 2025, the Coalition is made up of 300+ members representing all 50 states and the Northern Mariana Islands.

**August 2025**

![drawing of many people surrounded by leaves](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Many-Members.png "Many Members - Zero Food Waste Coalition")

## Meet Our Members

[![AgroFresh Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AgroFresh-1.png "AgroFresh - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.agrofresh.com/)

[![Albertsons Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Albertsons.png "Albertsons - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://chlpi.org/food-law-and-policy/)

[![Baltimore Dept. of Public Works Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/balitmore-Department-of-Public-Works.png "balitmore Department of Public Works - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.baltimorecity.gov/publicworks)

[![Bread for the World Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Bread-for-the-World.png "Bread for the World - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.bread.org/)

[![Carel Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Caret.png "Caret - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://careit.com/)

[![City Harvest Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/City-harvest.png "City harvest - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.cityharvest.org/)

[![divert logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/divert.png "divert - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://divertinc.com/)

[![Earth Justice Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Earth-Justice.png "Earth Justice - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://earthjustice.org/)

[![The Farmlink Praject Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Farmlink-Praject.png "Farmlink Praject - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.farmlinkproject.org/)

[![Flash Food Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FlashFood.png "FlashFood - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://flashfood.com/)

[![Food Law & Policy Clinic Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FLPC.png "FLPC - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://chlpi.org/food-law-and-policy/)

[![Food Cycler Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-Cycler.png "Food Cycler - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://foodcycler.com/)

[![Food Recovery Network Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-Recovery-Network.png "Food Recovery Network - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.foodrecoverynetwork.org/)

[![Food Rescue Hero Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-Rescue-Hero.png "Food Rescue Hero - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://foodrescuehero.org/)

[![Food Rescue US Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Food-rescue.png "Food rescue - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://foodrescue.us/)

[![Food Cycle KC Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/FoodCycleKC.png "FoodCycleKC - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://foodcyclekc.com/)

[![Goodr Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Goodr.png "Goodr - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://foodcyclekc.com/)

[![Harry Chapin Food Bank logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Harry-Chapin-Food-Bank.png "Harry Chapin Food Bank - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://harrychapinfoodbank.org/)

[![Incite Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Incite.png "Incite - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.incite.org/)

[![Industrious Labs Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Industrius-Labs.png "Industrious Labs - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://industriouslabs.org/)

[![Kipster Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Kipster.png "Kipster - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://kipster.farm/)

[![Northern CA Recycling Assn Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Northern-CA-Recycling-Assn.png "Northern CA Recycling Assn - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://ncrarecycles.org/)

[![Nourish Now Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nourish-Noaw.png "Nourish Now - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://nourishnow.org/)

[![NRDC Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NDRC.png "NDRC - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://action.nrdc.org/)

[![PIRG Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PIRG.png "PIRG - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://pirg.org/)

[![ReFED Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ReFed.png "ReFed - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://refed.org/)

[![Rethink Food Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Rethink-Food.png "Rethink Food - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.rethinkfood.org/)

[![Too Good To Go Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/To-Good-To-Go.png "Too Good To Go - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-us)

[![winnow logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/winnow.png "winnow - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.winnowsolutions.com/)

[![World Wildlife Fund Logo](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/WWF.png "WWF - Zero Food Waste Coalition")](https://www.worldwildlife.org/)

45

[Download a full list of members](https://zerofoodwastecoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZFWC-Member-List-May-2026.pdf)

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