Last week, we joined the panel of judges for the Lineage Food Chain Innovation Challenge, where 15 startups shared innovative ideas to reduce food waste. These products addressed a variety of issues, with the potential to curb waste in logistics, food preservation, food access, and data management
The winner, Ryp Labs, produces StixFresh—stickers and pouches that extend the shelf life of fruits by delaying the ripening process. What’s impressive is that the stickers work without needing to be placed on every individual piece of fruit, and they’re compostable!
Many presenters showcased ideas that operate across the supply chain, meaning these solutions might not be visible to consumers. However, there are several public-facing technologies available in metro Detroit that you can start using today to reduce food waste:
Flashfood
Flashfood is available locally in Meijer stores. Think of it as a modern discount bin. As food approaches its sell-by date, Meijer posts it on the Flashfood app. Customers can view all available deals in one place, purchase items online, and pick them up at the front of the store. The experience is seamless, and you can snag some great deals while preventing food waste.
Too Good To Go
Another excellent way to save food and money is with Too Good To Go, which recently launched in the area. This app allows you to purchase surplus food from restaurants at a steep discount. It helps restaurants recover some of their costs while keeping food out of landfills. We especially love this option for smaller restaurants that want to prevent waste but may not generate the volume needed for donation.
Food Rescue US–Detroit
For those interested in helping donate surplus food, Food Rescue US connects food donors with local hunger relief organizations. The Detroit chapter provides a fantastic way to volunteer and make an impact. By downloading the app and signing up as a “Rescuer,” you’ll receive all the details needed to transport surplus food to those in need.
Facebook’s Buy Nothing Groups
Last but not least, don’t overlook your local Facebook Buy Nothing Group. Members give away unused items, including food, for free. These groups help keep items out of landfills, provide free products to others, and foster stronger neighborhood connections—a triple win!
Do you have a favorite technology that helps reduce food waste? We’d love to hear about it! Drop us a line at info@makefoodnotwaste.org!