Edible Food Recovery

Food recovery means collecting edible food that would otherwise go to waste and redistribute it to feed people in need. This is the best use for food that would otherwise go to waste. Feeding hungry people through food recovery is the best use for surplus food and a vital way for California to conserve resources and reduce waste thrown in landfills.

SB 1383 phases food donors under two tiers. Tier 1 generators were required to donate starting in 2022. Tier 2 generators were required to donate starting 2024. Mandated food donors can help their communities now by starting to work with local food banks, food pantries, and other food recovery organizations and services.