Reducing the amount of plastic and spread that is wasted in cafeterias by means of automation

Problem

Foodstuff packages are often made of plastic, and there are many unresolved issues related to its use and recycling. Furthermore, not all packaging methods prevent the generation of food waste in the best possible way. For example, spreads such as butter may be offered in small disposable plastic packages or from a larger tub. Single-serving packaging is wasteful and often even leads to food waste, since not all the content of the packaging is used every time.

Solution: reducing the amount of plastic and spread that is wasted in cafeterias by means of automation

The Foodduck spread dispenser is a device that automatically dispenses spread onto a piece of bread, or anything else. The customers can themselves control the amount of spread the device dispenses. The device enables a reduction in the amount of spread going to waste and in the amount of plastic used for preserving the spread in self-service cafeterias. Foodduck leases dispensers to its customers through monthly agreements and maintains the dispensers throughout their service lives. The devices use IoT technology that enables the collection of consumption data to support the planning of spread orders and servicing.

Foodduck’s revenue logic and benefits

The Foodduck spread dispensers are leased devices with a durable structure. They can be updated and refurbished as needed. Foodduck agrees long-term contracts with its customers, which facilitates the long-term planning of business and creates continuity for operations.

Benefits to customers and end users

When using Foodduck, the customer’s spending on spread, the amount of plastic waste and waste-management costs all decrease. The completely aluminium-free Foodduck spread package placed inside the dispenser contains only 10 per cent of the amount of plastic used in the tubs containing the same amount of spread, so this significantly reduces the amount of plastic waste generated by the customer. The dispenser is allergy friendly, so it can also be used by people with coeliac disease, for instance. The device also cuts the customer’s working hours, as it is easier to keep the bread table clean and dispensing the spread is less messy. In addition, the spread needs replacing less often.