The 3 Best Food Sharing Apps

Whether it’s fruit, vegetables, or dairy, there’s a lot of food waste in the United States each day. Luckily, many new food sharing apps are working to provide solutions!

The accessibility of technology in recent years has given way to a culture where everything is at our fingertips. Smartphones have made sharing culture easy, whether it’s a ride or a winter’s meal. And, food sharing is just one offshoot of the possibilities offered up! Unfortunately, approximately 150,000 tons of food is wasted each day according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This amount can impact everything from food security and conservation to the climate. While sharing food can be great for a good meal, it’s also an ideal way to tackle the waste! So let's have a look at how to share food with your neighborhood.

Whether it's social media or a ride with Uber, there are many different ways to share these days. As a result, it’s no surprise that the food sharing economy is picking up steam! With so much food waste, many are looking for solutions that will reduce waste. Some food services are dedicated to sharing leftovers or providing a unique meal for locals. It can be a great way to get an inexpensive meal from an unknown local chef! However, others seek to pair extra food from producers and retailers with non-profits. Not only can it fight hunger, but it’s also more environmentally friendly too! While there are different reasons for sharing food, this trend has many benefits.

There may be a lot of conveniences that go along with the trend of sharing food. However, the swiftness of many startup apps has led to some downsides. Many apps have disappeared quickly since they were not subject to governing laws. La Piat, a food sharing app Toronto lays claim to, may not regularly inspect kitchens. However, they do rely on food handling certification, phone interviews, and customer reviews. The hope is that these things can weed out the bad from the good. It’s important to be aware though that many contributors may not be in accordance with food regulations. Unfortunately, this means they are not qualified for commercial food activities.

The food sharing sites out there have changed as fast as the times. However, many are breaking through to the mainstream! You may even want to share your own favorites on FamilyApp.

• Olio– When it comes to wasted food, Olio is at the top of its game. Instead of local bakeries discarding products like bread and bagels, they are picked up and posted on Olio. Started in 2015, the project has 450,000 participants in 32 countries! A third of those who use the app falls under the poverty line, which makes it philanthropic and food-waste friendly!
• Food Rescue US–Food Rescue US is another great app that reduces food waste in the United States. Luckily, this app makes it very easy for those who donate, deliver, and provide food to find each other! If you’re a restaurant or grocer, you can list the food you’d like to donate. Then, a driver can deliver it to an agency or food pantry that’s looking for that item!
• La Piat – If you’re looking for a meal at the end of the day, La Piat is a food sharing app Canada can be proud of! Based in Toronto, this app values regulation so all chefs have to have their Ontario Food Handling Certificate. All you have to do is peruse the pictures of available food. Once you pick your item, it will be delivered to you!

The sharing culture has become an important part of how people provide and access services in recent years. Luckily, it’s caught up to food and there are many great apps for sharing it! Whether it’s for those struggling with hunger or those who want a homemade entrée, there are a number of options. Do you have any recommendations for the best food sharing websites? If so, share your experience with us. There may be many reasons for food sharing, but less food waste is one of the best benefits!