S.835 - Reduce Food Loss and Waste Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Reduce Food Loss and Waste Act of 2025 aims to establish a voluntary program within the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to reduce food loss and waste. The bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to create a certification program for eligible participants who demonstrate efforts to minimize food waste and increase food donation. This program includes defining eligibility criteria, setting standards for third-party certifiers, and promoting certified participants through voluntary labeling and other communication strategies.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would likely lead to increased awareness and adoption of food waste reduction practices across various sectors, including government agencies, businesses, and educational institutions. It could also result in more food being donated to food banks and other organizations that serve individuals in need. The bill also mandates interagency coordination to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing food loss and waste.
Potential Benefits
- Increased donation of excess food to food banks and other charitable organizations.
- Reduction in overall food waste, leading to environmental benefits and cost savings.
- Creation of a voluntary certification program that incentivizes businesses and organizations to adopt sustainable practices.
- Potential for new business opportunities in the areas of food waste reduction and alternative disposal methods.
- Enhanced collaboration between government agencies, businesses, and non-profit organizations in addressing food waste.
Potential Disadvantages
- The voluntary nature of the program may limit its overall effectiveness if participation rates are low.
- The cost of implementing and maintaining the certification program could be a burden for some smaller organizations.
- The criteria for certification may be difficult to establish and enforce, potentially leading to inconsistencies.
- The reliance on third-party certifiers could create opportunities for fraud or abuse.
- The authorized funding of $3,000,000 per year may be insufficient to fully support the program's goals.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes efficient resource use and aims to address food insecurity. The establishment of a voluntary program falls within the powers granted to Congress to regulate commerce and promote agriculture (Article I, Section 8). No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).