Tackling Food Waste with Olio and Too Good To Go
In the UK, it's estimated that over 9.5 million tonnes of food is wasted annually, with households accounting for the majority of this waste.1 To combat this issue, innovative apps like Olio and Too Good To Go have emerged, offering consumers new ways to access surplus food and reduce their environmental impact.
Understanding Olio
What is Olio?
Olio is a free app that connects people with surplus food items in their local community. Users can list or claim food that would otherwise go to waste, ranging from fresh produce to packaged goods. This peer-to-peer sharing platform helps reduce food waste while fostering a sense of community.
How to Use Olio Effectively
- Download the Olio app and create an account.
- List any surplus food items you have available, providing details like the item, quantity, and pickup location.
- Browse the app for nearby food items that you can claim and collect.
- Coordinate pickup with the item's owner and collect your items at the agreed-upon time and place.
- Leave positive feedback for users you interact with, and encourage others to join the Olio community.
Exploring Too Good To Go
What is Too Good To Go?
Too Good To Go is a mobile app that connects consumers with restaurants, cafes, and retailers that have surplus food at the end of the day. Users can purchase "surprise bags" of this unsold food at a discounted price, preventing it from going to waste.
How to Use Too Good To Go Effectively
- Download the Too Good To Go app and create an account.
- Search for participating businesses in your local area and browse their available "surprise bags".
- Purchase a "surprise bag" and select a pickup time that works for you.
- Collect your bag from the business at the specified time and enjoy your discounted, rescued food.
- Leave a review for the business you interacted with, and encourage others to use Too Good To Go.
Tips for Maximizing Your Savings and Impact
- Check both apps regularly to stay up-to-date on available food items and surprise bags.
- Be flexible and open-minded about the types of food you're willing to claim or purchase.
- Coordinate with friends or family to split the cost of larger surprise bags and share the savings.
- Spread the word about Olio and Too Good To Go to your community and encourage others to get involved.
- Track your food waste reduction and share your success stories to inspire others.
By embracing Olio and Too Good To Go, UK consumers can take an active role in reducing food waste, saving money, and contributing to a more sustainable future. With these powerful apps at your fingertips, you can make a meaningful difference in your local community and beyond.
1 WRAP. (2021). Food surplus and waste in the UK – key facts. Retrieved from https://wrap.org.uk/resources/report/food-surplus-and-waste-uk-key-facts