The fee for wasted food in stores is set to increase from the current 10 groszy to 50 groszy per kilogram (up to approximately €0.12), according to the proposals outlined in the government's legislative work schedule. Additionally, the penalty for failing to pay this fee is expected to rise to 15,000 PLN (over €3,500).
These changes are part of an amendment to the law on food waste prevention, aimed at reducing food waste and increasing the donation of food to non-governmental organizations involved in redistribution.
New rules to improve food waste management and donations in Poland
The new regulations will also address interpretative uncertainties by clarifying the definition of "food waste" to include not only actions leading to waste but also omissions that contribute to it.
The definition of "food sellers" will be expanded to cover all commercial entities, facilitating food donations.
The new rules will also introduce a possibility to deduct up to 20% of the fee for costs related to campaigns and distribution.
A fine of 5,000 PLN (€1,150) will be imposed for failing to carry out educational campaigns.
These regulations aim to improve the effectiveness of food waste prevention and enhance cooperation between stores and non-governmental organizations.
Source: IAR/PAP
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