My personal journey in the food service industry has spanned several establishments - from fast food, to restaurants and most recently , the Publix Deli, where I currently work. What I see every night I close turns my stomach. Publix, a company I serve, has proven to be the most wasteful of them all, throwing away tons and I mean TONS of food periodically throughout the day. 

My first job at Panera, we addressed a surplus of expired baked goods and bread in a much more thoughtful way. Instead of admitting them to the dumpster, Panera made it mandatory to contribute all unsold bread to charity organizations. At Firehouse, we shared food with homeless folks without  asking for penny back. And yet, in comparison, Publix stands glaringly idle in its policy of waste.

Despite throwing away tens of shopping cart loads of food, Publix doesn't permit its workers to take home any leftover items without charging them. This food, except for chicken and perishable meat, which has expiration dates but not expired usefulness, needs to find its way to those who need it.

We call on Publix, a company serving society as a trusted food provider, to donate ALL non-perishable expired food and products to local food banks. This proactive step not only addresses the astronomical amount of waste but benefits the community and propagates a culture of sharing.

As per The National Resources Defense Council report, up to 40% of food in the United States goes uneaten, translating into an egregious waste of resources. Furthermore, even a conservative estimate suggests that this wasted food could feed at least 2 billion people. The proposed action of Publix, a significant player in the food industry, is an opportunity to address this alarming trend.

We call on Publix to update their policy and become part of the solution to food waste and hunger. Sign the petition and urge Publix to take this essential step today.