Do we need to provide packaging?
For cooked food, yes — please put it in suitable containers for the food type provided before handing it over. We recommend avoiding new plastic containers and using containers such as aluminium, cardboard or using biodegradable materials, which are easily recyclable but still sturdy and leak-proof. We also encourage repurposing large plastic containers that are dishwasher-safe, like yogurt tubs, ice cream tubs or mayo pots. Loose fruit and veg doesn't need packaging; volunteers bring their own bags. Can't get hold of packaging? Just let us know here
Can we use reusable containers that the volunteer return?
This is feasible from a food safety and legal standpoint. However, our prior testing experiences revealed several challenges, including volunteers being unwilling to collect food in large reusable containers (that they later need to portion) as well as issues with volunteers not returning them. If you wish to explore this approach, we suggest discussing it with your volunteers once a solid relationship and confidence has been built. Volunteers will need to follow the guidelines shared in our FAQs here.
Are there any requirements for portioning the food in the containers?
No strict rules, you can portion food in a way that works best for your team. We recommend small portions that can be easily consumed by families. If food is packed in bulk, volunteers will decant it into containers brought by the people collecting it.