Urges schools to implement share tables in order to reduce food waste and help alleviate food insecurity.
Impact
Current studies indicate that approximately 21% of the food served in school lunches is wasted. This assembly resolution not only seeks to decrease food waste but also aims to assist the nearly 10% of children in New Jersey who experience food insecurity. By encouraging schools to adopt share tables, the resolution hopes to channel surplus food into local food banks, thus enhancing food access for those in need while also minimizing the financial implications of food waste disposal.
Summary
Assembly Resolution No. 112 urges schools in New Jersey to implement share tables as a means to reduce food waste and mitigate food insecurity. A share table is a designated area in school cafeterias where students can place unopened and unconsumed food items. This food can then be taken by other students or donated to food pantries, addressing both waste reduction and food availability. The bill emphasizes the importance of such initiatives for educating students on food waste issues and instilling environmental consciousness.
Contention
While share tables have already seen implementation in some New Jersey school districts through initiatives like 'offer-versus-serve', the proposal may encounter varying levels of acceptance among districts. Supporters argue that the implementation is a straightforward and effective approach to addressing food waste and insecurity. Conversely, there may be concerns regarding the logistics of maintaining these tables, including health regulations and the adequacy of communication among students concerning the proper use of share tables.
Establishing a legislative Hunger Task Force to study and make findings and recommendations for alleviating hunger, addressing food insecurity and increasing access to healthy food in this Commonwealth.