Food Waste Start-Ups On The Rise As Grocers Go Green

Food Waste Start-Ups On The Rise As Grocers Go Green


January 20, 2023 | Eul Basa

Food Waste Start-Ups On The Rise As Grocers Go Green


Food waste continues to be a growing problem in today's world. According to the UN's Food Waste Index Report, there were about 931 million tonnes of food wasted in 2019, accounting for 17% of total food production globally. Households were responsible for two-thirds of the food waste, while retail and foodservice were responsible for the remaining one-third.

Today's venture-capital firms are hoping their latest efforts will help eliminate the issue once and for all.  Some startups are experimenting with artificial intelligence to better quantify customer demand, while others are using programs to help streamline the logistics of selling irregularly-shaped produce that grocers often turn down. Automating these processes would help ensure that there isn't a surplus of perishables on the shelves, but also enough of them to keep up with consumer needs.

There is a growing demand for these novel solutions, and big companies are looking to food waste startups in particular for them. In fact, mentions of "food waste" on corporate earnings calls have tripled since the second quarter of 2016, according to CB Insights. Additionally, companies that are developing food waste technologies have increased their funding to $170 billion between January and June of 2021, which is approximately $20 billion more than all that was raised the year prior.

Currently, the main focus of these food waste startups is to tie up with large supermarket chains that are willing to allow their technologies to be used in their businesses. Given that some investors are still unsure about taking the plunge, a more united effort towards the food waste problem by grocers and restaurants alike would make the investment look a lot more appealing. A key issue is that, despite the increasing interest in food waste solutions, there are still not enough companies that are willing to pay for them.

Still, the COVID-19 pandemic has helped keep the spotlight on the food-tech sector as more people relied on online shopping for their groceries. In any case, investing in such startups could be promising in the months to come.

“I think most [companies] in general are feeling more pressure — and I mean that in a good way — to focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts,” said Adam Boutin, a partner at Capital One Ventures.

“It’s just a win-win for the environment, for grocery stores, for the industry. Mountains of produce in grocery stores might look good to consumers, but it’s important to stock only what is needed."


READ MORE

My mom left the house to all four siblings, but I’m the only one of us who’s actually living in it. What now?

If you’re living in the family home and your mom's will has divided the house evenly between you and three siblings, it's important to clarify what rights you have.
July 18, 2025 Marlon Wright
Untitled Design (12)

We Asked ChatGPT What Would Happen If Billionaires Paid The Middle Class Tax Rate

Every paycheck, taxes get yanked out before you even see the money. But billionaires have found ways around that inconvenience. So what if we closed those loopholes and made everyone play by the same rules?
July 18, 2025 Marlon Wright

My boss invited me to his lake house, then got angry when I declined. Now he’s cutting my hours. Is that retaliation?

This guide will help you identify and understand retaliation in the workplace, what your rights are, and how to handle it step by step.
July 23, 2025 Allison Robertson
Tenant Intfbog

I let a friend stay in our rental. They stopped paying and won't leave. What now?

Letting a friend stay in your rental might feel generous at first—but if they stop paying and won’t leave, it becomes a legal and emotional dilemma. Whether they were a tenant or just a guest, this guide walks you through how to handle the situation calmly and legally.
July 26, 2025 J. Clarke

Fast Food Toys From The 80s And 90s That Are Collectible Gold

Before apps took over, kids lived for the thrill of fast food toys—little freebies from places like McDonald’s and Burger King that are now worth serious money. Let’s rewind to the '80s and '90s and uncover the childhood collectibles turning into cold, hard cash.
July 25, 2025 J. Clarke

I took out a payday loan to pay off another payday loan. Now I need another payday loan to pay off that one. Is there a way out of this mess?

Your first payday loan was supposed to be just a one-time quick fix to cover an emergency expense. Now that you've taken out another payday loan, you're staring down a black hole of debt. Let's look at your options.
July 16, 2025 Carl Wyndham


Disclaimer

The information on MoneyMade.com is intended to support financial literacy and should not be considered tax or legal advice. It is not meant to serve as a forecast, research report, or investment recommendation, nor should it be taken as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or adopt any particular investment strategy. All financial, tax, and legal decisions should be made with the help of a qualified professional. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, or outcomes associated with the use of this content.





Dear reader,


It’s true what they say: money makes the world go round. In order to succeed in this life, you need to have a good grasp of key financial concepts. That’s where Moneymade comes in. Our mission is to provide you with the best financial advice and information to help you navigate this ever-changing world. Sometimes, generating wealth just requires common sense. Don’t max out your credit card if you can’t afford the interest payments. Don’t overspend on Christmas shopping. When ordering gifts on Amazon, make sure you factor in taxes and shipping costs. If you need a new car, consider a model that’s easy to repair instead of an expensive BMW or Mercedes. Sometimes you dream vacation to Hawaii or the Bahamas just isn’t in the budget, but there may be more affordable all-inclusive hotels if you know where to look.


Looking for a new home? Make sure you get a mortgage rate that works for you. That means understanding the difference between fixed and variable interest rates. Whether you’re looking to learn how to make money, save money, or invest your money, our well-researched and insightful content will set you on the path to financial success. Passionate about mortgage rates, real estate, investing, saving, or anything money-related? Looking to learn how to generate wealth? Improve your life today with Moneymade. If you have any feedback for the MoneyMade team, please reach out to [email protected]. Thanks for your help!


Warmest regards,

The Moneymade team