Milwaukee launches Food Saver Challenge to reduce waste and fight hunger

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Mayor Cavalier Johnson announced the launch of the Food Saver Challenge on Monday, April 7, a year-long pilot program aimed at reducing food waste, improving food access and diverting edible items from landfills.

The initiative aims to bring together food-related businesses, nonprofits, farmers and city agencies to streamline the collection and redistribution of surplus food across Milwaukee. The city’s Environmental Collaboration Office will offer guidance to participating organizations.

"The program will build bridges between local chefs, food businesses, food banks and pantries, ensuring surplus ingredients are repurposed for redistribution to those who need it," Johnson said.

"For gleaners and growers, it may include connecting our hard-working urban farmers directly with those who can pay them for surplus that might otherwise rot in the fields," said Andi Sciacca, Environmental Collaboration Office coordinator.

The announcement was held at Soul Brew Kombucha, one of the participating businesses.

Additional information about the Food Saver Challenge can be found by clicking here.