How Oishi is Combating Food Waste and Supporting Communities Through Sustainable Practices
Oishi is leading the fight against food waste by turning excess food into a valuable resource for local communities. The restaurant group is committed to addressing food surplus with sustainable solutions that benefit both society and the environment.
Food waste, which occurs during production and consumption, significantly impacts climate change and global warming. It’s an issue that demands urgent action from all sectors of society. Oishi, a major player in the Japanese restaurant industry, has recognized this challenge and developed policies to promote sustainable practices. Their efforts include reducing food surplus and managing it effectively through initiatives like the #FinishIt Challenge and the “Don’t Eat It, Donate It” project.
A key part of their strategy is the “Food Rescue” project. This initiative focuses on maximizing the value of surplus food by donating it to communities in need. Oishi partners with charitable organizations and local communities to ensure that excess food from their restaurants—such as Oishi Buffet, Oishi Eatery, Shabushi, and Nikuya—is put to good use.
Before participating in the program, staff at each restaurant location receive comprehensive training on food safety and management from Oishi’s Quality Assurance (QA) department. This training ensures that surplus food is handled safely and efficiently.
Since its launch in late 2020, the Food Rescue project has been running for four years and continues to grow. Oishi plans to expand the initiative to include more locations. Their dedication to managing food surplus not only supports communities but also helps reduce environmental impact, showcasing their commitment to both social responsibility and environmental stewardship.
