Impact of Collaborative Food Rescue Initiatives on Reducing Food Waste

In the current food systems landscape, the concept of food rescue has become a powerful force due to concerns about waste and its effects on the environment and society. This paper explores the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders to address the complex challenges of food security, sustainability, and waste reduction. Through a comprehensive framework, surplus food is rescued from various stages of the supply chain and redirected towards meaningful purposes, mitigating the environmental impact of food waste. However, despite these efforts, the global paradox of food waste alongside increasing food insecurity continues to exist. This study examines the dynamics of how food is allocated among stakeholders using Monte Carlo simulation in order to identify disparities and optimize the use of resources. By addressing disparities and improving collaboration, the paper aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of food rescue initiatives, ultimately reducing food waste and improving societal well-being. Key research questions explore the impact of for-profit food rescue on non-profit organizations, the influence of optimized food allocations on sustainability, and the role of contracts in fostering collaborative efforts to combat food waste.