In China, a new law against food waste has come into effect. In the future, for example, excessive orders from catering service providers can be punished with a fine of up to 10,000 yuan (equivalent to around 1.275 euros). Also, caterers are now allowed to charge a disposal fee from customers who leave behind large amounts of food waste.
18 million tons for catering alone
As the state television broadcaster CGTN reported, the new law was a reaction to more and more food being thrown away in China. In China’s catering industry alone, roughly 18 million tons of food are wasted each year.
Last August, China’s President Xi Jinping personally addressed the issue. The head of state described the amount of food wasted as shocking. Waste is shameful, but thrift is honorable.
Local authorities then started programs to reduce food waste. Online videos of people ingesting excessive or expensive dishes have also come under fire.
