LAS VEGAS — The closure of buffets on the Strip has affected more than just tourists; it has also reshaped how local farms operate. Las Vegas Livestock, which feeds thousands of pigs with food scraps, had to find new sources after the pandemic hit.
Before COVID-19, most of their food waste came from casinos. Sarah Stallard of Las Vegas Livestock explained, “We were mostly servicing casino hotels. After the pandemic, we had to change our sources.”
With the Strip shut down, they began sourcing from grocery stores and warehouses. This required upgrades to their equipment to handle different types of waste. “We had to implement a system to remove inorganic materials,” Stallard said.
Processing output has significantly increased, shifting from about 30 tons a day pre-pandemic to around 55 tons now. This shift has provided a more reliable supply of food scraps compared to the fluctuating offerings from buffets.
Stallard noted, “When food scraps decrease, we downsize our inventory, which impacts our sales.” However, adapting to grocery store sources has led to stability. “Using waste sorting technology has opened up consistent grocery store access,” she added.
Historically, feeding pigs with food scraps isn’t new; Stallard’s father did the same 70 years ago in California. Today, Las Vegas Livestock stands at the forefront of sustainable practices in Clark County, blending tradition with modern technology.
In the bigger picture, the trend of waste reduction is crucial. According to a 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 30-40% of the food supply in the U.S. is wasted. By repurposing food scraps, farms like Las Vegas Livestock not only help feed livestock but also tackle food waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.
For a deeper dive into food waste solutions, you can check out the USDA’s Food Waste Challenge.
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