Up to 40% of food is wasted, and that's a big problem for society and the planet. The Upcycled Food Association (UFA) prevents this problem by supporting businesses in creating new, high-quality products from otherwise wasted, but perfectly nutritious, ingredients.
The organization was formed to support upcycled food brands that make the world a better place by fighting climate change. It was created in 2019 by upcycled food companies themselves, who recognized the power of collaboration in growing a successful food category and environmental movement.
By using every scrap of food possible, we can reduce GreenHouse Gas (GHG) emissions. Approximately 10% of all GHG emissions come from agriculture so any action that makes better use of the food grown on farms will have a positive impact on the carbon footprint of the food industry. If we have any hope to get to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, we need to find innovative solutions to make the food system’s carbon footprint as small as possible. This is not a small challenge, but by thinking creatively we can solve it.
Research has shown that 60% of people want to buy more upcycled food products, and that's because 95% of us want to do our part to reduce food waste (MATTSON). And through Upcycled Food Association's network of more than 140+ mission driven businesses and non-profits across 20countries, the goal is to build the sustainable food system of the future. This will be a food system built by conscious consumers and innovative businesses, where all food reaches its highest and best use.
Upcycled Food Association is a non-profit leveraging research, strategy, networking, and policy advocacy to drive change in the food system. UFA is composed of 140+ Members and Associate Members from around the world.
Riverside is excited to join this pioneering community of food innovators and work together to create new products and find solutions to the appalling waste of valuable resources.
