Giant Food, a leading regional grocery chain in the greater Washington, D.C. area, has joined forces with Divert, Inc., a circular economy company, to significantly reduce food waste and support local communities. Since 2022, this collaboration has processed nearly 80 million pounds of unsold food products, equivalent to mitigating over 37,000 metric tons of CO2e. The partnership encompasses all 163 Giant Food stores across Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., transforming unsold food into beneficial products through innovative recycling methods. Additionally, Giant Food has donated more than 6.1 million pounds of food in 2024, equating to approximately 5.1 million meals. This initiative not only combats food insecurity but also reinforces the company's commitment to sustainability.
The collaboration between Giant Food and Divert began in June 2022 with the launch of a comprehensive recycling program aimed at reducing the amount of unsold food sent to landfills. Diane Hicks, Senior Vice President of Operations at Giant Food, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it allows the company to make a tangible difference in reducing food waste and supporting communities. By integrating anaerobic digestion, Divert processes unsold food into carbon-negative renewable energy and nutrient-rich soil amendments, thereby recouping the value of the food and advancing circularity.
Giant Food's commitment to sustainability is evident in its various initiatives. Through programs like Meat the Needs and Fresh Food Recovery, each store partners with local organizations such as churches, soup kitchens, and food banks to donate wholesome food for quick distribution. In 2024 alone, these efforts prevented over 35 million pounds of food from being wasted. Ryan Begin, CEO and co-founder of Divert, Inc., highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that it exemplifies what can be achieved when companies collaborate to reimagine food systems for the better.
This milestone represents a significant step forward in the fight against food waste and environmental impact. The partnership between Giant Food and Divert demonstrates the potential of collaborative efforts in creating sustainable solutions. By transforming how the industry handles unsold food and increasing community impact, both companies are setting a new standard for responsible resource management. The success of this initiative underscores the importance of innovation and cooperation in addressing critical issues such as food insecurity and environmental sustainability.