Bill > AJR174

This Joint Resolution urges large food retailers in the State to take several actions to reduce food waste, acknowledging that global food security is a growing concern and that wasting food squanders valuable natural resources and drives up costs. The resolution specifically encourages these retailers to upgrade their inventory systems with modern technology to minimize excess stock and handling, and to reduce the amount of perishable items that end up as waste. It also calls for retailers to strengthen partnerships with farmers to decrease agricultural waste, treating them as long-term collaborators rather than mere contractors. Furthermore, the resolution advocates for modifying store practices that contribute to waste, such as relaxing overly strict cosmetic standards for produce, establishing systems to donate surplus edible food to charities, and adopting a consistent food expiration date labeling system to prevent consumer confusion. Finally, it urges retailers to engage consumers through educational materials, cooking demonstrations, and social media campaigns to promote waste reduction.