WeFood Suomi - Suomen ensimmäinen hävikkiruokakauppa

WeFood Suomi - Helsinki's First Food Waste Store

Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is known for its innovative and sustainable initiatives. One such initiative is WeFood Suomi, the country's first food waste store located in the Kalasatama district. This unique concept aims to reduce food waste by offering consumers the opportunity to shop for perfectly edible but surplus or near-expiry food items.

A Pioneering Concept

WeFood Suomi is based on the successful Danish concept developed by DanChurchAid, the sister organization of Kirkon Ulkomaanapu (Finnish Church Aid). In Denmark, there are already three WeFood stores, and now Helsinki joins the movement with its own branch. The store collaborates with various suppliers, including Heinon Tukku, who donate surplus food that would otherwise go to waste.

A Variety of Products

WeFood Suomi offers a wide range of food products, including fruits, vegetables, and dry goods. The selection varies weekly, as it depends on the donations received. While the products may be classified as "second quality," they are still perfectly safe and nutritious for consumption. The packaging may have minor damages or deviate from the manufacturer's standards, but the quality of the food remains intact.

Supporting Sustainable Practices

The WeFood store in Helsinki aims to divert approximately 50,000 kilograms of food waste annually. By shopping at WeFood Suomi, customers actively contribute to reducing food waste and supporting sustainable practices. The store operates with the help of 150 dedicated volunteers, who ensure that the food is carefully sorted and only edible items are sold.

A Social and Environmental Impact

WeFood Suomi not only addresses the issue of food waste but also has a positive social impact. The store collaborates with Haaga-Perho Business College, providing internship opportunities for students interested in sustainable food practices. Additionally, the store's food deliveries are made using a zero-emission electric van provided by Nissan, further reducing its environmental footprint.

How to Get Involved

To support the establishment of WeFood Suomi, individuals can purchase a virtual share for 15 euros. By doing so, they become virtual partners of the store and receive benefits such as a mini-poster designed by Otto Koivunen, invitations to customer events, and a 10% discount on food sold in the store for one year. The profits generated by the store are donated to Kirkon Ulkomaanapu's development cooperation projects.

Visit WeFood Suomi

If you're visiting Helsinki, make sure to stop by WeFood Suomi in the Kalasatama district. Not only will you have the opportunity to shop for affordable and sustainable food, but you'll also be supporting a worthy cause. The store's opening hours are from [insert opening hours]. Remember to bring your own shopping bags to further reduce waste.

Conclusion

WeFood Suomi is a pioneering initiative in Helsinki, offering a sustainable solution to the issue of food waste. By shopping at this unique store, visitors can contribute to reducing food waste, supporting sustainable practices, and making a positive impact on the environment and society. So, next time you're in Helsinki, don't miss the chance to visit WeFood Suomi and be a part of the movement towards a more sustainable future.