The relevant memorandum has already been signed, and legislative changes are planned to be worked out in the coming months. This was told by Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Taras Vysotskyy. “Up to 2.5 million tons of food can be utilized in Ukraine annually – this is up to 15-20% of production and consumption. Our task is to reduce these losses as much as possible and direct such products to support people who need it,” – emphasized the civil servant.
The Government of Ukraine expects that the system will increase the social responsibility of business, reduce food waste and disposal costs, reduce the burden on the state budget and provide food for millions of people (in particular, displaced persons, pensioners and people with disabilities).
How will food be tested for its suitability for consumption?
The Ukrainian government assures that food safety will be strictly controlled. Responsibility for the quality of food and proper storage conditions will be placed on the “food banks” themselves.
Presumably, food banks will receive goods with a long shelf life, but acceptance of products with expired shelf life is not excluded. First of all, we are talking about cereals, pasta, flour, sugar, salt, oil, canned meat, fish and vegetables, bakery products, dairy products, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.
The government is also considering the option of introducing certain incentives to encourage businesses to join such an initiative. At the same time, fines may be envisaged for those who decide to simply dispose of food instead of handing it over. The final rules are still being worked out.
Such practice has long existed, food banks are successfully operating in the United States, Canada, Argentina, Mexico, India and many European countries. The main idea of this model of social interaction is to reduce food waste and help people who lack basic food.
