At AiP, we serve over 75,000 meals daily across more than 400 schools, and we understand that food waste isn’t just about what’s left on the plate; it’s about lost resources, missed opportunities to nourish young minds, and the impact on our planet. That’s why we’ve made a bold pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2045 as part of our wider sustainability commitment while working towards carbon-neutral operations.
Rescuing Surplus Food with Waste Knot
One of the ways we’re making a difference is through our partnership with Waste Knot, an organisation dedicated to rescuing surplus fruit and vegetables from farmers and ensuring they don’t go to waste. Through this collaboration, fresh and surplus produce is delivered directly to our school kitchens, where our skilled chefs use these ingredients to create nutritious meals for pupils.
This initiative is about more than just reducing waste, it’s about making a real impact:
- Repurposing surplus food – giving perfectly fresh ingredients a purpose
- Lowering carbon emissions by preventing unnecessary food waste
- Educating pupils-helping them understand sustainability and the value of food
By working with Waste Knot, we’re not only reducing our environmental footprint but also supporting farmers by ensuring that high-quality produce is used to its full potential. Our chefs take great pride in incorporating these ingredients into our meals, ensuring that pupils enjoy flavourful, well-balanced dishes made from fresh, seasonal produce.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
At AiP, we believe that great food and sustainability go hand in hand. We don’t just serve meals, we educate and inspire pupils about food, nutrition, and making responsible choices. Our menus are designed to make the most of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, supporting British farmers while reducing food miles. We even incorporate ‘wonky’ vegetables – nutrient-rich but cosmetically imperfect produce that might otherwise be discarded.
To further cut food waste, we use digital pre-ordering systems that help predict meal demand, ensuring that every ingredient serves a purpose. By combining technology with responsible sourcing, we’re creating a more efficient and sustainable approach to school catering.
A Greener Future for School Catering
We see food as more than just fuel. It’s an opportunity to educate, inspire, and create change. Our mission extends beyond catering – we are committed to supporting local communities, reducing our environmental impact, and helping the next generation understand the importance of sustainability. By embracing innovation, responsible sourcing, and impactful partnerships like Waste Knot, we’re leading the way towards a greener, more responsible future for school catering.