Zero waste in professional kitchens: methods and concrete solutions
- kathleendemontpell
- Mar 30
- 2 min read
As sustainability becomes a priority for food businesses, adopting a zero waste approach in professional kitchens offers numerous benefits. Reducing waste not only minimizes environmental impact but it also saves money and enhances brand image. Here are some concrete solutions to achieve this goal.
1. Optimize purchasing and inventory management
Use the FIFO (First In, First Out) method to ensure older products are used first.
Purchase in appropriate quantities and prioritize bulk products to reduce packaging.
Work with suppliers who offer returnable or reusable container solutions.
2. Reduce food waste
Regularly analyze food waste to identify sources of loss: https://orbisk.com.
Repurpose unsold food by creating daily specials or using apps like Too Good To Go.
Transform leftovers: vegetable peels can be used for broth, stale bread for croutons or chapelure, etc.
Donate surplus food to local organizations such as food banks: https://www.banquesalimentaires.be/fr/a-propos-de-nous.
3. Use eco-friendly packaging
Prioritize reusable, compostable, or recyclable containers. Contact L’Empoteuse for more information on reusable containers for HORECA.
Encourage customers to bring their own containers for takeout.
Replace plastic wrap with alternatives like reusable beeswax wraps: https://wrapi.be/.
4. Effectively manage waste
Implement strict waste sorting in the kitchen.
Install a compost bin for organic waste or collaborate with local composting companies.:
Greenzy (https://greenzy.eu/), Recyclo coop https://www.recyclo.coop/
Recycle used cooking oils into biofuels.
5. Raise awareness and train staff
Organize training sessions to involve employees in the zero waste initiative.
Create an internal charter with best practices to follow daily.
Encourage innovation and creativity to find new waste reduction solutions.
By implementing these strategies, businesses can significantly reduce waste and set an example for sustainable food service. Want more advice? Feel free to contact us at: contact@cookwork.be.
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