"Siegen: Is an all-you-can-eat buffet available?"
In the heart of Siegen, Germany, the city is known for its vibrant food scene, with Old Kaan Siegen being a popular spot for German cuisine and steaks. However, the issue of food waste in buffet-style restaurants has come to the forefront, with NGG South Westphalia advocating for a change.
Isabell Mura from the catering union NGG has highlighted the issue of "buffet greed" leading to food waste due to oversized portions. This overspending on food results in a substantial amount going uneaten, ending up in the bin. To combat this, NGG South Westphalia is proposing a "waste penalty" to encourage moderation in eating at buffets.
The waste penalty would apply to leftover food on plates and half-full drinks, particularly in "all you can eat" restaurants, if there is an unlimited drinks offer. Mura suggests that when one can no longer eat more, one can stop eating without leaving a half-full plate. This approach could reduce food waste significantly, making the practice not only ethically but also economically sustainable.
While the specifics of the waste penalty are yet to be determined, Mura has proposed that a part of the collected fines could be donated to "Bread for the World". Additionally, the savings could be used to invest in more staff and better wages for chefs and waitresses in the restaurants.
The effectiveness of a buffet penalty in reducing food waste in Siegen-Wittgenstein is still to be seen, as there are no direct local studies on the matter. However, insights from the wider hospitality sector suggest that such a strategy could be effective when combined with real-time preference alignment and technology-supported monitoring. Staff engagement and training, use of technology for waste monitoring and forecasting, and aligning food offerings with customer preferences are key components in this approach.
Meanwhile, Siegen residents can vote for their favourite restaurants on Google, and the local editorial team is available on Facebook and Instagram for updates and discussions. The new "Cafézeit" in Siegen offers homemade nudel salad, bowls, and bread, providing another dining option for those seeking a delicious meal without contributing to food waste.
As the city moves towards a more sustainable future, the buffet penalty proposal serves as a step towards addressing the issue of food waste in Siegen's restaurants. By encouraging moderation and responsible eating, the city hopes to reduce waste, support local businesses, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
The buffet penalty proposal aims to encourage moderation in eating at restaurants, addressing the issue of food waste due to oversized portions and leftovers. If implemented, a part of the collected fines could potentially be donated to 'Bread for the World', and the savings used to invest in better wages for restaurant staff. The new café, 'Cafézeit', offers meal options that support a more sustainable food system, providing an alternative dining choice for residents.
