Romanian farmers face challenges selling produce as food bank launches donation program

Small-scale farmers in Romania are facing significant challenges in selling perishable produce, leading to potential waste and financial instability. Producers report difficulties finding buyers, high costs for direct retail, and risks associated with storage and climate.

To address food waste, the Local Food Bank Sector 6 has launched the ‘Culege Binele’ campaign. This initiative allows farmers to donate unsold, safe-to-consume fruits and vegetables directly from their farms. The program aims to redirect agricultural surplus to vulnerable populations, including those in summer school programs and meal services. The Food Bank utilizes its own fleet to collect donations from farms and warehouses, including those outside the immediate sector, to mitigate the total loss of products and reduce disposal costs for producers.