Unlocking Food Waste Solutions: Insights from the Food Recovery Caucus Part 2 – AG Information Network of the West

From the Ag Information Network, this is today’s Fruit Grower Report. Did you know that a staggering amount of food goes to waste in the U.S.? At the same time, many people struggle to find enough to eat. To tackle this issue, U.S. Representatives Dan Newhouse from Washington and Chellie Pingree from Maine have kicked off the Congressional Food Recovery Caucus again. Their mission is to ensure the food farmers produce reaches those in need.

Newhouse believes this effort does more than just distribute food. It plays a key role in raising awareness about the importance of domestic food production. “America has changed,” he says, pointing out that once, most people had a connection to farming. Now, that’s not the case. Only a small percentage of Americans are tied to agriculture.

This shift often leads to misunderstandings. Newhouse shares his frustration about the need to constantly educate people on why agriculture matters. “It’s essential to keep farming at the center of policy discussions,” he adds, emphasizing how vital it is to support our domestic food supply.

The Caucus is not just about sharing food; it’s about sharing knowledge. Newhouse notes that conversations like this help highlight the significance of the agricultural industry in the U.S. By educating Congress members and the public, they hope to shed light on these critical issues.

Recent statistics underscore the urgency of this cause. According to a 2022 report by the USDA, nearly 30-40% of the food supply goes to waste. That’s about $161 billion worth of food each year. This waste not only impacts hunger but also has environmental consequences, contributing to landfills and greenhouse gas emissions.

With initiatives like the Food Recovery Caucus, there’s hope. Educating people about food waste can lead to changes in behavior, and even small efforts at home can make a difference. As awareness grows, let’s also remember that supporting local farmers is key to a healthier and more sustainable food system.

For more insights, you can check out the USDA’s Food Waste Guide, which offers practical tips on reducing waste at home.

Check out this related article: Join the Fight Against Food Waste: Your Guide to Rescuing Food in Southwest Florida

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