Big Changes Ahead: EU Takes Bold Steps to Cut Food Waste and Promote Circularity
15.06.2025
Food waste remains a critical challenge across Europe. Every year, over 59 million tonnes of food go to waste in the EU, nearly 10% of all food produced. The cost is massive: 252 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions and €132 billion lost across the value chain. But change is on the horizon. The European Commission has now welcomed a provisional agreement to revise the EU Waste Framework Directive, a clear step toward reducing both food and textile waste. These new measures will drive stronger action at national and business levels, accelerating the shift toward a more circular, resource-efficient future.
What’s Changing?
1. Legally Binding Food Waste Reduction Targets
For the first time, the EU will set mandatory reduction targets:
10% reduction in food waste from processing and manufacturing.
30% per capita reduction in food waste at retail and consumption levels (including restaurants, food services, and households).
These targets align with Sustainable Development Goal 12.3: halving food waste and reducing losses by 2030.
To support this shift, the European Commission will provide funding, research, and a platform for sharing best practices across Member States. But the direction is clear: action from businesses is no longer optional, but expected.. And the time to start is now.
2. Harmonised Rules for a Circular Economy
The revised Directive introduces harmonised rules across Member States, creating a level playing field for food service businesses and encouraging innovation. The EU is sending a strong signal that sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand.
What Does This Mean for Food Service Operators?
Hotels, canteens, restaurants, and caterers will need to reduce food waste not just voluntarily, but in line with legal expectations.
This shift isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about understanding where and why waste happens, and acting on it.
How Can You Prepare?
Here’s how your business can get ahead of the curve:
1. Start Measuring Your Food Waste Now
You can't manage what you don't measure. Implementing a smart food waste monitoring solution, like KITRO TARE, gives you data-driven insights into what’s being wasted, when, and why. Our automated technology removes the guesswork and our experts help you turn numbers into action.
2. Implement Reduction Strategies
Use your data to make informed decisions:
Adjust production volumes and portion sizes
Tailor menus based on actual consumption
Train staff on food handling and waste prevention
Improve storage to extend shelf life
Reuse or creatively repurpose leftovers
Set up partnerships for food donations
3. Stay Informed and Stay Compliant
The revised Directive will become law 20 days after its publication, and Member States will have 20 months to implement it nationally. That means the clock is ticking and proactive businesses will be better positioned to comply and compete.
WRITTEN BY:
KITRO
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