EU supports promotion of responsible consumption and reduction of food waste in Moldova

On 3 December, the Food Bank/Banca de Alimente organised the first edition of the ‘Gratitude Gala for the Prevention of Food Waste’ in Moldova. 

The event was part of the two-year ‘Partnerships for Inclusive and Sustainable Social Canteen Services’ project (2022-24), funded by the EU with approximately €1.3 million.

The Food Bank operates as an internationally recognised mechanism that recovers surplus food products, safe for consumption, which would otherwise be discarded by operators in the agri-food chain. These recovered products are subsequently distributed to social services that assist vulnerable groups.

As a gesture of appreciation, the event honoured seven agri-food sector operators for their consistent involvement and significant contributions to the Food Bank’s efforts. They were presented with the Gratitude Gala Trophy for the Prevention of Food Waste.

The event was attended by the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, alongside representatives from the agri-food business sector, social service managers, authorities, and other Food Bank partners.

“Reducing food waste and loss are among the EU’s key objectives in achieving a circular economy by 2050. I am pleased that together we have improved the Republic of Moldova’s legal framework for food waste prevention and strengthened the operational capacities of the Food Bank,” Jānis Mažeiks, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, said. “I would also like to express my gratitude to all food donors – companies, farmers, partners, and volunteers – as well as to the citizens who support efforts to prevent food waste and promote solidarity. Through joint efforts and collective mobilisation, we can provide real opportunities for a better life to those in need.”

The ‘Partnerships for Inclusive and Sustainable Social Canteen Services’ project is funded by the European Union and co-financed and implemented by I.P. ‘Keystone Moldova’, A.O. ‘Concord. Social Projects’, and I.R.M.S. ‘Diaconia’.

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Press release