Nebraska Hy-Vee stores recycle food waste

Twenty-five Hy-Vee stores in Nebraska have begun turning organic waste into compost, biogas and animal feed through a partnership with Sanimax.

Started as a pilot in March with two stores in Omaha, the program encompasses excess fruits and vegetables, bakery products, solid dairy products and floral clippings.

Hy-Vee plans to sell the compost as well as use it at stores that have community gardens.

The retailer estimates the Nebraska stores can divert about 150,000 pounds of food waste each month.

“We are excited to use our stores’ organic waste to help our community gardens grow. It’s really coming full circle for our stores and our customers,” Tally Mertes, store director at the 180th and Pacific Hy-Vee store in Omaha, said in a press release. “Hy-Vee is committed to promoting the well-being of our customers, employees, communities and the global environment. This new recycling program is just one way we can help our communities and our customers.”