Foodbank Queensland rescues 22 million meals in 2021 

As demand for food relief rises, so too does the challenge of rescuing and sourcing enough food to ensure a nutritious meal is within reach for all Queenslanders in need. 

We believe everyone deserve access to good quality food, all year round. However, whilst families are going hungry, sadly, millions of kilograms of food are wasted every year due to oversupply, labour shortages, and transport challenges. 

That’s why we work closely with hundreds of farmers, retailers and manufacturers, from large corporations to local business, to help reduce food waste and get essential food and groceries to Queenslanders who need it most. 

In 2021, our incredible Food Donors provided enough food and groceries to fill more than 2.4 million shopping bags. Enough to create 22 million meals for people doing it tough! 

Taylor Family Produce is one of our very generous Queensland growers donating fresh produce to ensure healthy and nutritious food gets to communities that need it most. Located in the Granite Belt region of Amiens, they donate a variety of leafy vegetables, including lettuce and silverbeet. 

Ray Taylor, Managing Director of Taylor Family Produce, said “When product is rejected or low value in the markets, we would prefer the product to go where it can help those in need rather than being wasted.” 

Bob McMillan, Foodbank Queensland Food Supply Manager, said Foodbank was proud to work with so many generous Food Donors to help feed hungry families, reduce waste and protect our environment.   

“Our Food Donors help to ensure that we can get a consistent supply of fresh food and essential groceries to Queensland families in need, whilst reducing food waste.  

“Thanks to our farming communities, more than 35% of all groceries rescued by Foodbank Queensland each year are fresh fruit and vegetables from more than seven farming regions in Queensland,” he said. 

To all of our wonderful Food Donors, thank you for your continued support and for helping us feed the thousands of families who rely on us every week.  

If you’re in the food industry and are interested in becoming a food donor, please click here.  

To see Foodbank Queensland’s 2021 Food Partners, click here.