Food Waste/Food Rescue Solution

Grind2Energy Food Waste Diversion

Pre and post-consumer food waste is diverted from the landfill by utilizing the Grind2Energy technology provided by Insinkerator Emerson. The technology processes food and then pipes it to an onsite tank where it is then pumped by a local septic hauler and brought to an area dairy farm that has existing anaerobic digestion and a closed-loop approach to using the food waste donation.

Cultivate Culinary

The University maintains an ongoing partnership with Cultivate Culinary to provide high-quality, well-balanced meals to food-insecure families throughout the Michiana area. Food is rescued from events as well as normal dining operations. Cultivate "rescues" and reuses food through multiple programs, including a weekend backpack program to feed K-12 students facing poverty. Much of this food comes from Campus Dining as well as Athletic events. During the COVID-19 campus shutdown, Cultivate also received all of the fresh produce that otherwise would have gone to waste.

In the 2021-22 academic year, Notre Dame donated almost 34 tons of food to Cultivate.

For more information about Cultivate Culinary: https://cultivatefoodrescue.com/