After sorting through rescued food donations, The River’s Operations Specialist, Amanda Prusak, empties inedible produce into new on-site compost bins that will support local farms.

In recognition of Earth Day, The River Food Pantry is focusing on strengthening its sustainability efforts to simultaneously feed more people and help to protect our environment.

The River not only provides food and supplies to over 2,500 people in Dane County every week, it also plays a significant role in protecting the environment by rescuing more than 1 million pounds of food annually from the food industry, agricultural producers, and food wholesalers and retailers.

“One of our major priorities is keeping food that is safe for consumption from going to waste,” said Rhonda Adams, Executive Director of The River, located on Madison’s Northside. “The food and supplies we rescue help nourish the 13,000 people who rely on us for groceries and meals each year. By minimizing the amount of waste that goes into our landfills, we also help our environment.”

Recently, The River recognized over 60 local food retailers as ‘Food Waste Fighters’ for their significant donations of food and supplies in 2022. Nearly half of products distributed come from The River’s recovery program.

To further minimize waste and increase food access, The River is working on new sustainability initiatives. This spring, the pantry is implementing on-site composting for its meal and grocery programs. Staff are also working with Master Gardener volunteers to develop gardening classes with simple ways to grow fresh produce at home.

Another food sustainability education issue that The River continues to stress to everyone: “Best by,” “Sell by,” and “Best if used by” are not expiration dates.

“Perishable foods, like milk, cheese, and juice, are usually safe to eat even after their ‘best by’ dates. Instead of relying on package dates, please use your senses. If it smells off, looks moldy, or tastes bad, then trash it,” Adams said.