Food Waste - Donations

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  Donating Excess Food

  A common misunderstanding is that donating food beyond its originally intended use is prohibited or transfers significant liability on the donator. On the contrary, donor protections exist nationally and in the State of New Jersey.

  In 1982, New Jersey enacted the "Food Bank Good Samaritan Act" (N.J.S.A. 24:4A-1 to 24:4A-5). Pursuant to the Act, donors cannot be liable for damages in any civil action or subject to criminal prosecution resulting from the consumption of donated food, so long as the damages are not caused by gross negligence, recklessness, or intended misconduct.

• Other Sectors involved in Donation:

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    Restaurants

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    Residential

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    Retail

  Below are suggested links for assistance in donating edible excess food:

  The Feeding America nationwide network of food banks secures and distributes 4.3 billion meals each year through food pantries and meal programs throughout the United States.

  If you are a backyard gardener with extra produce, Ampleharvest.org helps you Find a Pantry that can accept excess home-grown food.

  End Hunger NJ is a directory that lists local food banks in your area.