© Volunteers waiting to serve food to those who need it. Photo by Jürgen Langerfeld.Supp_optimal is a community-driven initiative that fights food waste and food insecurity by serving free, nutritious vegetarian meals made from rescued food, while fostering social inclusion and climate awareness.
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN FOOD RESCUE AND MEAL DISTRIBUTION
Supp_optimal is a community-driven initiative that goes beyond food distribution to foster connection, volunteer engagement, and climate action. Relaunched in early 2024, it serves freshly prepared vegetarian meals in reusable jars, made entirely from rescued food and distributed at five locations across the city. The mission: fight food waste while providing nutritious meals to vulnerable populations, including the homeless.
A COLLABORATIVE RESPONSE TO FOOD INSECURITY
Born out of a roundtable discussion during the pandemic, which addressed food security gaps as vulnerable groups lost access to food banks, Supp_optimal unites citizens, foodsharing groups, and companies to collaborate and learn. Volunteers help prepare meals, gain valuable experience, and some benefit from post-homelessness support. Through community cookouts and “rescuer lunches”, the project combats loneliness and promotes inclusion. Participants learn about the environmental impact of food waste while enjoying free, nourishing meals and building meaningful connections.
ADDRESSING FOOD INSECURITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE
Supp_optimal addresses two urgent challenges: food insecurity and climate change. The project supports vulnerable communities, including homeless individuals, by providing free, nutritious meals. By rescuing food, the project reduces CO₂ emissions by 1.5 kg per kg saved, aiming to prevent 20 tons of emissions annually. Processing rescued food lowers procurement and disposal costs, supporting both ecological and economic goals.
