Overview
This section establishes the federal policy of encouraging executive agencies and their contractors to donate surplus, safe-to-consume food to nonprofit organizations dedicated to addressing food insecurity in the United States.
Key Rules
- Encouragement of Donation: Both executive agencies and government contractors are urged to donate excess food rather than disposing of it.
- Safety Standard: Donations must consist of "apparently wholesome food" and be executed to the maximum extent safe and practicable.
- Target Recipients: Food should be directed toward nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to food-insecure populations.
- Geographic Scope: The policy focuses on assistance provided within the United States.
Practical Implications
- Contractors operating federal cafeterias, dining facilities, or large-scale events should integrate food donation processes into their standard operating procedures to align with government expectations.
- While the policy encourages donation, it places a heavy emphasis on safety and practicability, ensuring that contractors are not forced to donate food that poses a liability or health risk.