07/15/2026
France became the first country in the world to legally require supermarkets to donate their unsold food to charities and food banks. Stores larger than 400 m² must now establish partnerships with charitable organizations to redistribute still-consumable products: fresh fruits and vegetables, items close to their expiration date, or any other surplus. The law also prohibits making food unfit for consumption, such as by spraying it with bleach. 🇫🇷🥫
This measure has made it possible to redirect millions of meals to people in need and has inspired many similar policies across Europe. The legislation was subsequently extended to collective catering services and agri-food manufacturers, making France a true global leader in the fight against food waste. This law enables charities to distribute millions of additional meals each year, significantly improving access to food for the most vulnerable populations. ♻️🍽️✨
