Food for thought
What happens to surplus food at parties and buffets? Does it just get thrown out or can it be properly packed and sent to feed hungry mouths? ………..Tresha Guha
What happens to surplus food at parties and buffets? Does it just get thrown out or can it be properly packed and sent to feed hungry mouths? ………..Tresha Guha
Dont you love the elaborate spread when you go for an all you can eat buffet? Who doesnt love the mouth watering unlimited thalis at your neighbourhood restaurant?
While you pile your plate with salads, starters and desserts, have you ever thought about where the surplus food goes? A simple question by a member of Karmayog, a non governmental organisation (NGO) based in Fort made the NGO kick-start this query.
Explains Vinay Somani, trustee, Karmayog, When this topic was introduced by one of our readers, we immediately realised that its topical and something that needs more awareness. Following that, we created a discussion and hoped that people of various cities will connect themselves. Fortunately, there have been so many responses and a few companies have already come forward. If a restaurant in each locality offers to connect with an NGO, to distribute surplus food, its a great step.
Social workers are also keen on the venture. Says Meena Bindal from Tata Institute of Social Science, Chembur, We have a list of orphanages and NGOs that are all over the country. People can simply call up, find the address and deliver the food to the concerned places.
While everyone agrees that its a great move, some have reservations like Lavina M, a member of Karmayog, Though this is a good initiative, one needs to use caution. Since it is prepared food, there is a greater chance of it getting spoilt. If the function is held at night, the food will be used by NGOs only the next day. Many organisations lack proper storage facilities and I have heard of children in some centres falling sick after eating such food since they do not even have the choice to say no to food which is not in a good condition.
While the site has received over 30 responseswithin a day of its introduction, congratulating the move, organizations like Arham Yuva Group and Sunil Healthcare Ltd are excited to kick-start this. Says Anil Khaitan from Sunil Healthcare Ltd, Its a wonderful idea and I would like to help implement it within a week.
That sounds great!