Mobile app helps consumers reduce food waste

LACK of information on food safety and quality is one of the reasons why billions of food is wasted every year. In the US, it results in about 21% of available food uneaten at the consumer level, according to the USDA.

To reduce wastage, the agency introduced a mobile application called the FoodTracker designed for consumers, manufacturers and retailers. The app, which was launched just before World Health Day on April 7  provides data on how extend the shelf life of over 400 kinds of food, including dairy products, baby food, meat, seafood, and more.

“This application will help reduce food waste by showing users how to store foods properly, and reminding them to use items before they are likely to spoil,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “This can help consumers save money and reduce the amount of safe food going to landfills.”

A project of the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, Cornell University and the Food Marketing Institute, the app contains information on storage timelines for refrigerator, freezer, and pantry; cooking advice to prevent foodborne bacteria and foodborne illness; and safe food handling, storage, and preparation of meat, poultry, and egg products. Apart from these, calendar integration lets users input product dates and notifications on expiration, and the feature ‘Ask Karen’ lets users send questions to a USDA representative.