Poland ranks fifth in Europe when it comes to food waste and its government definitely thinks passing a law to curb the problem is the way to go!

The Polish parliament has passed a new law that obligates shops and stores that are over 250 metresquare and makes more than 50% from food sales in total revenue to sign agreements with NGOs for free transfer of unsold food items.

This means a regular convenience store whose revenue from selling food products is more than 50%  of its total monthly income would have to donate it’s unsold stock come month end. No questions asked.

Vendors who don’t adhere to the law will be fined 10 groszy (RM 10.81) for each kilogram of wasted food, with the funds used to support NGOs in distributing the saved food to those in need. Greenpeace says the new initiative could save 100,000 tons of food for those in need.

Coming back to Malaysia the Solid Waste Corporation says, Malaysians generate 16,687.5 tonnes of food waste on a daily basis, which is enough to feed 12 MILLION people three times a day. Food waste reportedly increases by 15-20% during festival seasons. That includes Deepavali guys!

So this Deepavali, lets be a little more mindful of the food we waste. Do your part and donate to the hungry and needy and brighten up their Deepavali!

If you’re wondering how, head down to LuLu Hypermarket and Departmental Stores, Capsuare, Masjid India and take part in RAAGA’s Deepavali Donation Drive!

For more info, check out the link and stay tuned to RAAGA!