Better left natural
A real bad habit: Vegetables and fruit have to look perfect and are therefore washed. In the case of potatoes, for example, this leads to the natural protective layer being removed and the product spoiling much more quickly.

Who is to blame?
28% of the huge amount of wasted food is produced during harvesting and processing. A third of the losses are produced by wholesalers and retailers. We consumers dispose of the rest.

Our contribution is important
Although 14% of the harvest is lost directly at the producer, the later in the value chain a food product is destroyed, the greater the waste of resources. That is why the destruction of a kilo of wheat is not comparable to a kilo of bread, which requires additional energy and raw materials to produce.

It starts with shopping
We are used to the fact that everything on offer in the supermarket, at the bakery etc. is always in stock. It's better to understand that the full selection is no longer available in the evening. This is a sign that nothing needs to be thrown away. For small purchases, a basket is enough instead of a shopping cart, as the "yield" seems too small and gaps need to be filled. And buy from regional producers at the market as often as possible.

The war generation as a role model
34 percent of people born before 1945 never throw food away. No generation appreciates the value of food more. Leftovers are consistently used or preserved.

Supporting good ideas

The good news is that a lot has happened in recent years. 79% of consumers see it as their responsibility to do something about waste. Initiatives such as the first supermarket for discarded food in Berlin show that we are on the right track.

Initiatives that you can support

Leftovers restaurant
The "Restlos glücklich" association serves creative menus made from "rescued" food in its restaurant on Berlin's Maybachufer. What is on the menu is decided by chance every day. The proceeds are invested in new projects.

foodsharing.de
Sharing instead of throwing away Via the foodsharing.de platform, members can give away or collect leftover food - even directly from cooperating retailers.

Live sustainably
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture's "Too good for the garbage can" initiative organizes campaigns on the topic of sustainable nutrition. Consumers can find lots of tips and information on the website www. zugutfuerdietonne.de.

Food for the needy
Under the umbrella organization of food banks, over 900 regional food banks collect food that is left over in supermarkets, for example, and then distribute it to people in need. Volunteers are always welcome.