Best practices in food waste recovery, in Encyclopedia of Agriculture and Food Systems,

This chapter aims to examine its multifaceted causes, extensive environmental and economic impacts, and potential innovative solutions developed by start-ups in the agri-food sector. The article concentrates explicitly on best practices in food waste recovery during food processing, a critical stage with significant opportunities for minimizing loss and repurposing by-products. While acknowledging the importance of regulatory frameworks and consumer behavior, the chapter focuses on how businesses—particularly start-ups—adapt and introduce new practices that reframe food waste as a strategic resource. Special attention is given to integrating circular economy principles into food waste management. The analysis identifies key barriers such as inconsistent data, financial limitations, regulatory gaps, and low consumer awareness that slow the transition toward more sustainable and circular food waste management practices. It also highlights emerging technologies and policy frameworks that can support scalable, systemic solutions.