FoodCycle works with supermarkets, small independent grocery shops and markets to source perfectly edible surplus food in a safe and responsible way.

We can take fresh produce (e.g. fruit, vegetables and bread) and dried goods (e.g. pasta, lentils and spices). We are unable to accept meat, fish, food past its use by date, or ready-prepared foods, such as doughnuts, sandwiches or microwave meals.

We are unable to accept donations or small quantities from individuals – if you are looking to donate food in smaller quantities, contact our friends at Plan Zheroes, Trussell Trust or Olio.  Or you can donate to a local food bank, community fridge or through collection points in supermarkets.

If your business would like to become a supporter and donate food, please contact us.

Every week our volunteers rescue surplus food and turn it into delicious three-course meals. The food that is donated to us is perfectly good to use and there are a number of reasons why it may have become classed as surplus food, including:

Imperfections – Fruit and vegetables might have knocks, bruises or be a bit wonky but their nutritional value is just the same and they can still be turned into meals.

Best before date – This is just a guidance on when food is at its ‘best’ but in fact it can often be used for far longer. Use by dates are different and FoodCycle cannot accept food past its use by date.

Damaged packaging or labelling – Packaging could have become damaged or there could be a printing error with the labelling, yet the food is still in perfectly good condition.

Overproduction or more than needed – sometimes it can be hard to estimate the correct quantity to grow, sell or order, especially when it comes to seasonal produce, so growers or stores may end up with more than they need.