An innovative food application originating from Denmark is making waves in the Capital Region by addressing food waste issues and offering discounts to local diners. Too Good To Go, a social impact company, collaborates with various eateries and stores to manage surplus food sustainably. Through its platform, users can access Surprise Bags containing meals or grocery items at significantly reduced prices, thus preventing wastage.

A Sustainable Solution Gaining Momentum

In the heart of the Capital Region, this initiative has found support from several local establishments such as Sambath’s Donuts & More, Hunan, Odom’s Kitchen, Whole Foods Market, Krispy Kreme, and Circle K Treats & Eats locations. For instance, during lunchtime, one might find sushi, noodles, or soup within a Surprise Bag from Hunan for just $7. Similarly, Odom’s Kitchen offers unsold dishes like pulled pork and smothered pork chops, while Krispy Kreme provides a dozen doughnuts for $5.43. Each Surprise Bag reportedly prevents nearly 6 pounds of CO2 emissions.

This app not only combats global food waste, which amounts to 40% of all produced food according to the World Resources Institute, but also aids in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With over 100 million registered users globally and partnerships exceeding 175,000 businesses, Too Good To Go continues to grow, earning accolades such as the 2023 Cultural Impact Award from Apple.

Beyond the app, sustainable eating practices include thoughtful grocery planning, donating excess food to local food banks or community fridges, participating in programs like Hunters for the Hungry, and utilizing on-campus food pantries at institutions such as LSU and Southern University.

Through these efforts, communities are fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility towards our environment.

As a journalist covering this story, it's inspiring to witness how technology and community collaboration can transform an everyday issue into an opportunity for positive change. The success of Too Good To Go underscores the potential we have when leveraging innovation to address pressing global challenges like food waste and climate change. It serves as a reminder that small actions, collectively taken, can lead to significant impacts.