Zomato Launches Innovative Food Rescue Initiative to Combat Food Waste

In an impressive move to tackle food waste, Zomato has introduced its Food Rescue initiative, which is already making waves by salvaging 75% of eligible cancelled orders. According to CEO Deepinder Goyal, this initiative is successfully translating into approximately 150,000 meals saved each month. Launched on November 10, 2024, this feature not only addresses environmental concerns but also offers customers a chance to enjoy meals at discounted rates.

What Is the Food Rescue Initiative?

This groundbreaking feature was designed with the aim of minimizing food wastage, a pressing issue in the food delivery industry. It allows customers to purchase cancelled orders that would otherwise go to waste. Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: Only cancelled orders within a 3 km radius of the delivery agent are available.
• Time-Sensitive: Customers have only a few minutes to claim these orders.
• Quick Deliveries: Orders are typically delivered in less than nine minutes after being claimed.

Impact on Food Waste Reduction

Goyal shared an update on the initiative through a post on X, emphasizing its growing success. "Customers are now rescuing 75% of eligible orders, and this number keeps climbing. At this pace, we’re saving over 150,000 meals each month," he stated. The speed of the process is noteworthy, with orders being claimed within two minutes.

The Vision Behind the Initiative

When Zomato first announced the Food Rescue initiative, Goyal highlighted the reality of over 400,000 cancelled orders occurring each month on the platform. By making these orders visible to nearby users, Zomato is giving customers an opportunity to enjoy meals while significantly reducing waste.

• Original Packaging: Meals are delivered in their original packaging to ensure quality and safety.
• Compensation for Partners: Restaurant partners will receive compensation for the cancelled orders, along with a share of the revenue from the new customer.

Benefits for Delivery Partners

Delivery partners also benefit from this initiative, as they will be fully compensated for the entire trip, irrespective of whether the order is claimed. Goyal explained that the Food Rescue feature automatically appears on users’ home pages whenever a cancelled order is available, encouraging quick action to save meals that would otherwise be discarded.

Conclusion

Zomato’s Food Rescue initiative is a game-changer in the fight against food waste, providing practical solutions while benefiting both customers and restaurant partners. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainability but also fosters a sense of community among users, making it easier than ever to enjoy delicious meals without contributing to food waste.

For more insights on food sustainability practices, check out our articles on food waste reduction strategies and initiatives by other companies in the industry.