Surplus Food Donations
Donating food can be a sustainable and simple way to help local non-profit and charitable organizations serve those in need in your community.
Permitted food facilities such as restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, food processing facilities, food distributors, and caterers can donate prepared foods and meals to nonprofit charitable organizations or individuals directly. Foods that have been previously served to a consumer cannot be donated.
Individuals can donate uncooked, pre-packaged food products (e.g. canned food items) that can be prepared on site by approved food handlers.
California Retail Food Code specifies that Limited Service Charitable Feeding Operations shall register with the local enforcement agency. In San Luis Obispo County, please register with the County of San Luis Obispo Environmental Health Services by submitting the Limited Service Charitable Feed Operation Registration Form.
Please visit Contact us for hours of operation, directions and phone information.
More Information:
SB 1383 Education and Outreach Resources - CalRecycle Home Page
Edible Food Recovery - San Luis Obispo County Integrated Waste Management Authority
Food Rescue US
Permitted food facilities such as restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, food processing facilities, food distributors, and caterers can donate prepared foods and meals to nonprofit charitable organizations or individuals directly. Foods that have been previously served to a consumer cannot be donated.
Individuals can donate uncooked, pre-packaged food products (e.g. canned food items) that can be prepared on site by approved food handlers.
California Retail Food Code specifies that Limited Service Charitable Feeding Operations shall register with the local enforcement agency. In San Luis Obispo County, please register with the County of San Luis Obispo Environmental Health Services by submitting the Limited Service Charitable Feed Operation Registration Form.
Please visit Contact us for hours of operation, directions and phone information.
More Information:
SB 1383 Education and Outreach Resources - CalRecycle Home Page
Edible Food Recovery - San Luis Obispo County Integrated Waste Management Authority
Food Rescue US
FAQs
The California Good Samaritan Food Donation Act and federal law offer protection.
It is important to maintain the foods that will be donated in the same safe manner in which a food facility holds other foods intended to be sold.
A growing number of organizations are working to recover wholesome surplus food to provide meals to families in need. To find food rescue groups in your area visit Food Rescue US.
Almost anything you serve or sell can be donated. There are a few exceptions: baby food and formula that has exceeded its expiration date cannot be donated.