Petition · past parliament · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Ensure supermarkets and restaurants can give left over food to those in need
Closed
740 signatures
What the petition asks
The government should adapt laws surrounding excess food to permit supermarkets and retail businesses to donate their left over food to food banks and local charities without risk of legal action or requiring special insurance to do so.
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed major stress on low income individuals and families, particularly on their ability to put food on the table.
In 2019/2020, 1.9 million people used a food bank. However research from The Trussell Trust forecasted a 61% increase in food parcels being needed across its UK network as a result COVID-19.
It is shameful that 1.8 million tonnes of food are wasted each year by food manufacturers, their commitment to halve waste by 2030 is not enough.
In 2019/2020, 1.9 million people used a food bank. However research from The Trussell Trust forecasted a 61% increase in food parcels being needed across its UK network as a result COVID-19.
It is shameful that 1.8 million tonnes of food are wasted each year by food manufacturers, their commitment to halve waste by 2030 is not enough.
Timeline
| 12 Feb 2021 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 12 Aug 2021 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
740
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened
12 Feb 2021
Closed
12 Aug 2021
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.