Tackling Waste, 5 Innovators leading the way

Welcome to this week's edition of GRATE!

As climate concerns mount and food insecurity remains a global issue, reducing food waste is one of the most urgent (and actionable) challenges we face. In the UK alone, households waste 6.4 million tonnes of edible food each year—while in Ireland, it’s estimated we bin over 1 million tonnes annually, with a third of that coming from households. At the same time, the cost-of-living crisis is shifting how people shop, with the “reduced to clear” aisle getting more attention than ever.

It’s clear: food waste isn’t just an environmental problem—it’s an economic and social one, too. That’s why innovation in this space matters so much. Whether through product development, upcycling, or smart retail tech, a growing number of companies are helping to close the loop, and—crucially—bring consumers along for the journey.

In this week’s issue, we’re highlighting five examples doing just that.

As always, enjoy the read, and I challenge you this week to think about what initiatives you have or could have in place in your business to reduce the waste crisis! 

Annie x

PHEN – TURNING OLIVE OIL WASTE INTO OLIVE FLOUR

Phen has developed a patented process that transforms olive oil production waste - specifically the leftover pomace - into a fine, nutrient-rich olive flour. Years of research and experimentation led to this unique innovation, which gives new life to a typically discarded by-product. The result is a functional, sustainable ingredient packed with fibre, antioxidants, and olive-derived goodness - perfect for baking, cooking, or boosting nutritional content. It’s a brilliant example of circular food innovation in action.

WICKOW WOLF X BRENNANS BREAD – SLICED CAN BEER

A beer brewed using surplus Brennans batch bread? That’s exactly what this clever collab between Wicklow Wolf and Brennans Bread delivers. It’s a witty, effective use of a staple food item that often ends up wasted, turned into a hoppy pale ale with purpose—and a brilliant way to make waste reduction feel accessible and even fun. By spotlighting bread—a top item in household food waste—they’re raising awareness in a uniquely Irish and drinkable way. Plus, it shows how cross-category collaborations can unlock powerful circular models.

BOLD BEAN CO - QUEEN CARLIN PEAS

Henry Dimbleby has cited legumes like these as key to future food security. Queen Carlin peas are not just protein-packed and climate-smart—they help diversify our food system with crops that regenerate soil and reduce the need for imported pulses. This launch shows how overlooked ingredients can become modern pantry staples, especially when paired with smart storytelling and culinary relevance. It’s a win for taste, nutrition, and the planet. I absolutely love what Bold Bean Co are doing.

BIASOL - BREWING A BETTER BREAKFAST FROM BARLEY WASTE

BiaSol is transforming food waste into daily staples by rescuing over 450 tonnes of spent grain from Irish breweries and giving it a delicious second life. Their upcycled ingredients now appear in granolas, oat bars, and other snack innovations that balance flavour, nutrition, and sustainability. Their mission and impact were powerfully spotlighted by co-founder Niamh on the Sustainability Stage at Bord Bia Bloom, where she shared how their circular model is helping reshape consumer habits. Having reached thousands of homes and earned accolades like Best Food & Drink Startup 2023 and a Great Taste Award in 2024, BiaSol is proof that waste can be a valuable ingredient in building a better food future.

GANDER– REAL-TIME TECH TACKLING FOOD WASTE AT THE SHELF

Gander is revolutionising the “reduced-to-clear” section with its smart integration into retailers' POS systems, offering a live feed of markdown items directly to consumers via its app. The moment a product is stickered in-store, it appears on Gander—making it visible to value-seeking shoppers in real time. This live, dynamic solution not only helps retailers reduce waste but drives footfall and boosts sales of short-dated items. Originally launched in the UK, Gander has saved over 25 million food items from landfill and is now expanding into Australia—supporting shoppers facing rising grocery bills while directly contributing to the fight against food waste. A smart win-win for wallets and the planet.