Struggling families to benefit from out-of-date food agreement in Tenerife
The Government of the Canary Islands has met with the Canary Islands Association of Supermarkets (ASUICAN) to distribute food which has passed its sell by date, to needy families in the region. The food, which would otherwise be thrown away is fit for consumption but can no longer be sold legally.
The director general of Commerce, Arturo Cabrera, stated that much of the food was thrown out because of damage to packaging or that it was passed its sell-by date meaning businesses were legally obligated to dispose of it. According to experts, most of these foodstuffs are still fit for consumption over 6 months beyond their “best before” date. The plans proposed will require warehouse space, refrigerators, freezers and a logistics network to transport the food to the areas most in need. Already earmarked for the project are funds of 1,5million €uros with a further 500,000€ next year.
Supermarkets would be in support of the idea if the Government can adapt current legislation to make the scheme effective and organise for health checks to be carried out on all the products delivered.
The draft of the plans states that between 200 and 500 tonnes of perishable goods per year could easily be saved through the initiative meaning not only will the program be socially productive but it will have a environmentally positive effect too.
The proposals have been met with mixed reactions amongst the Canarian population. Whilst some have praised Chairman of the Government of the Canary Islands, Paulino Rivero for his “smart thinking” others have called the current state of affairs “shocking” and “a disgrace” saying the Canary Islands Government should be ashamed of themselves for allowing such a desperate situation to arise. “Perhaps this food, since it is still fit for human consumption, should be used in the kitchens of all the Government offices and buildings and the money saved can be used to help those in need?” was one suggestion.
Whilst no one can argue that this will certainly bring a net benefit to those in dire need, will the social reaction and stigma attached to handing out expired food do more damage to the islands image and reputation?
What are your thoughts?
