How Large-Scale Catering Services Reduce Food Waste: Sustainability in Action
Food waste is one of the biggest challenges at events, but large-scale catering services have developed smart strategies to cut it down significantly. By planning portions carefully, sourcing responsibly, repurposing leftovers, and integrating sustainability practices into every step, these catering teams turn what could be waste into value. Their systems not only save money but also protect the environment, showing how sustainability in action works at scale. Introduction: Why Food Waste Matters When hundreds or even thousands of people gather for an event, the chances of food waste rise dramatically. Trays of untouched appetizers, buffets with overstocked choices, and desserts left behind can quickly add up. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), roughly one-third of food produced globally is wasted. At events, the problem becomes even more visible, with studies suggesting up to 40% of catered food goes uneaten. But the story doesn’t end there. The catering indust...