Key Takeaways
- First-of-its-Kind Approval: The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has formally approved Mill’s system for converting household food scraps into chicken feed, marking a pioneering achievement in the U.S.
- Addressing Food Waste and Sustainability: Mill’s technology offers a sustainable solution to food waste and livestock feed production challenges, aligning with efforts to utilize arable land more efficiently.
- Regulatory Support and Implications: The approval follows a critical vote by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and a recommendation from the FDA, setting a precedent for future circular food systems.
- Commitment to Local Food Systems: Mill emphasizes the importance of strengthening local food systems and reducing landfill waste with a process that also supports composting initiatives.
Mill, an award-winning food-recycling system, has received formal approval from the WSDA to distribute a chicken feed ingredient made from recovered household food scraps, a first in the United States. This approval introduces a novel method for reintegrating uneaten food scraps back into the food system, tackling the significant issue of food waste alongside the environmental impact of traditional livestock feed production.
Revolutionary Approach to Food Waste
Mill’s system enables households to recycle food scraps, converting them into a valuable resource for chicken feed. “At Mill, we believe in a future centered around strong local food systems and community networks that keep food out of landfills,” said Matt Rogers, co-founder and CEO of Mill. He highlighted the importance of regulatory recognition in advancing sustainable food waste solutions: “We give a lot of credit to regulators at AAFCO, FDA, and the Washington State Department of Agriculture for their diligence throughout this process.”
Regulatory Milestones and Future Potential
The system’s approval was made possible by a landmark decision from AAFCO members and guidance from the FDA, paving the way for Mill and potentially other systems to utilize recovered household food for animal feed. “The ability to transform household food scraps into resources for farmers means for Mill, and we’re optimistic about the additional innovation this can unlock,” Rogers expressed, underscoring the broader implications for sustainable agriculture and resource recovery.
Safety and Innovation in Food Recycling
Derek Sandison, Director of the WSDA, commended Mill’s innovative approach and collaboration throughout the certification process: “Retrieving and reusing household food waste as animal feed is an innovative concept, and I appreciate the diligence they exercised to ensure the safety and quality of their product.”
Process and Application
Mill’s kitchen bin dehydrates food scraps, turning them into dry, nutrient-rich grounds ideal for chicken diets or composting. This process offers an efficient way to manage kitchen waste and contributes to the sustainability of local farming practices. Customers can return the processed scraps to the Mill for conversion into chicken feed, use them in home composting, or engage in community food recycling efforts.
