The Wisconsin Union is taking a big step to cut down on food waste and make meals more affordable. They’ve teamed up with the app Goodie Bag to sell unsold food at a significant discount.
Here’s how it works: Unsold items, like sandwiches and baked goods from locations such as the Badger Markets in Union South and Memorial Union, are bundled together and offered at a whopping 67% off. This innovative approach started on April 6 and connects customers with food that otherwise might go to waste.
Susan Dibbell, the Deputy Director of the Wisconsin Union, shared her enthusiasm about this program. She believes it’s a “win-win situation” that helps both the environment and students. “We are always on the lookout for ways to be more sustainable and make food affordable,” she said.
The idea of using Goodie Bag originated from discussions in 2025 among the Wisconsin Union Sustainability Advisory Board. This board, made up of students and staff, focuses on reducing the environmental impact of union operations. They work closely with the dining and hospitality teams to find sustainable solutions.
Every day, the Wisconsin dining teams serve thousands of guests, making sustainability a top priority. They source ingredients locally, minimize waste, and strive to improve their environmental practices.
Briana Boehmer, co-founder and COO of Goodie Bag, is excited about the collaboration. As a University of Wisconsin–Madison alumna, she appreciates her school’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
From a broader perspective, food waste is a serious issue. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 35% of the food in the U.S. goes uneaten, which has significant economic and environmental impacts. Initiatives like this can help change that narrative.
For students and community members, the Goodie Bag app offers an easy way to access discounted meals. By entering the code WISCO, new users can snag their first bag for free, making it even more appealing to try.
This initiative is a promising example of how universities can tackle food waste while providing affordable options. If you’re interested in exploring more dining options at the Wisconsin Union, check out their website at union.wisc.edu/dine.
