Food rescue at Urbandale Food Pantry on February 9, 2024.
Patty Sneddon-Kisting receives food rescue at Urbandale Food Pantry on Feb. 9, 2024.

DES MOINES, IOWA (April 22, 2025) – This Earth Day and every day, food banks play a critical role in reducing food waste.

At Food Bank of Iowa, one-third of the more than 27 million pounds of food distributed annually come from food rescue. Working with 416 grocery and convenience stores, manufacturers and producers, Food Bank of Iowa ensures good food that might otherwise be discarded is distributed to our network through food rescue, pantry deliveries and mobile distribution.

In FY2024, Food Bank of Iowa prevented 8.3 million pounds of wholesome food from going to the landfill and is on track to rescue more than 9 million pounds, or 7.5 million meals, in FY2025, said Carissa Bailey, FBOI’s retail donation coordinator.

“This is a win-win-win for everyone,” Bailey said. “More food gets to people experiencing food insecurity, and that creates stronger communities. Less food is wasted. Generous food donors and rescue partners not only help the environment and their neighbors, but also can receive valuable tax incentives by giving back. It just makes sense.”

What is food rescue?
Food banks adhere to strict food handling temperature and storage guidelines to ensure the food they distribute is safe. Food that is “rescued” may be mislabeled, close-dated, or needs to be repackaged in some way. Fruits and vegetables may not be the perfect size or shape, or a donor may have a surplus. All kinds of fresh produce, meats, dairy, bakery, frozen and shelf-stable products are acquired through food rescue.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, up to 40% of the U.S. food supply is wasted every year. Food banks rely on retail rescue to meet the growing and record need for food assistance.

Questions about retail food donation?
Contact retail@foodbankiowa.org for more information.

About Food Bank of Iowa
Established in 1992, Food Bank of Iowa provides nutritious food for Iowa children, families, seniors and veterans to lead full and active lives, strengthening their communities. Serving 55 of Iowa’s 99 counties, Food Bank of Iowa delivers more than 27 million pounds of food (22.7 million meals) to its 700 partners annually. Learn more at foodbankiowa.org.

Media contact:
Annette Hacker, VP strategy and communications, Food Bank of Iowa, 515-867-2885, ahacker@foodbankiowa.org