Around eleven million tons of food end up in the trash in Germany every year – this corresponds to about a third of all foods produced. Private households with around 59 percent have the largest proportion of this waste.
“Savior bag”
In order to counteract food waste, Lidl has been offering the so-called “rescuer bag” since 2023. For a few euros, customers receive a bag with fresh fruit and vegetables, which has small blemishes on the outside but is completely edible. For example, products such as mushrooms, raspberries, bananas, cucumbers or salad are included. The response is consistently positive: According to the test reports, customers report a good price-performance ratio and feel the action as a sensible contribution to food waste.
Kaufland has also recognized the potential and has been offering the “rescuer bag” in all branches across Germany since May 2025. A company spokeswoman explains: “Together with our customers, we want to ensure that food is eaten and not thrown away”. The range also corresponds to that of Lidl: a mixture of fruit and vegetables that have been removed from the range or have damaged packaging.
“Too Good to Go”
In addition to retail, the tech industry also relies on sustainable solutions. The “Too Good to Go” app networked users with restaurants, bakeries, cafes and supermarkets, which at the end of the day hand out excess food at a reduced price. Order is conveniently ordered, the collection takes place directly in the shop. The so -called “Magic Bags” contain a surprise selection of food or products that would otherwise have ended up in the trash. The app has already been presented in the TV show “The Lion’s Cave” and has been growing growing since then.
Simple tips
In order to counteract food waste in everyday life, no radical measures are required – even small, conscious decisions make a big difference. With a shopping list, it helps to only specifically buy what is really needed and thus avoid impulse purchases. The correct storage of food also helps to extend their durability and to have to throw away less. Remains can be used creatively in new dishes – for example in soups, casseroles or pan dishes. In addition, the best -before date should not be confused with an expiry date: Many products can still be easily enjoyed after expiry if they are sensorically unremarkable. If you also cannot consume food yourself, you have the opportunity to share them with others – digitally organized and implement them with others. These simple measures show that everyone can actively help to reduce food waste in everyday life.
Editor finance.net