Senate Hearing on Food Loss and Waste: Proposals for a Sustainable Future
In a recent hearing at the Italian Senate, I had the opportunity to contribute to the discussion on three bills addressing food waste and food loss. My input focused on analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each proposal while suggesting practical improvements to enhance their effectiveness.
The full contribution is available here >>> on the Senate Agriculture and Industry Committee page.
Senate Hearing on Food Loss and Waste: Proposals for a Sustainable Future
The three bills introduce innovative ideas, such as a take-home logo for restaurants, the option for half portions on menus, and the expansion of the Food Income Fund to support local projects. However, I highlighted certain critical areas, such as the lack of monitoring tools to assess the impact of these measures and the absence of fiscal incentives for restaurants and industry operators.
THE VALUE OF REAL MEAT
Among my main proposals was the establishment of a public-private National Observatory to monitor food waste across the supply chain, as well as the creation of a dedicated fund for educational and awareness campaigns. I also suggested extending fiscal incentives to startups and small businesses engaged in food surplus recovery, and encouraging the adoption of innovative technologies, such as the Internet of Things, to reduce food loss.
Finally, I proposed integrating these measures within a broader framework that promotes the Mediterranean Diet, encouraging responsible food practices as part of a balanced lifestyle. I am convinced that an approach that combines regulatory measures with incentives can make a significant difference in reducing waste and fostering greater awareness among both citizens and economic operators.
Main Proposals
- Establish a public-private National Observatory to monitor food waste across the supply chain
- Create a dedicated fund for educational and awareness campaigns
- Extend fiscal incentives to startups and small businesses working on food surplus recovery
- Encourage adoption of innovative technologies, such as the Internet of Things, to minimize food loss
