Chiquita Brands International, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., has a goal of eliminating its banana waste this year.
The company is highlighting its No Banana Wasted initiative and other sustainable programs for Earth Day, April 22.
Chiquita has implemented zero-waste practices, including updated farming methods, national banana donation initiatives and recycling programs, according to a news release.
“By finding impactful uses for the bananas that don’t make it to grocery store shelves, Chiquita is doing its part to create a solution for the global food waste epidemic,” Jamie Postell, director of North American sales, said in a news release.
Chiquita has a Tropical Ingredients Processing Plant in Costa Rica that produces puree and banana flour, cutting waste in half in two years, according to the release.
In the U.S., bananas that are bruised or exhibit premature browning are diverted to Feeding America, and Chiquita also participates in retailer Fruits for Kids program, offering free single bananas to children at stores.
The company donates bananas to community events, including the New York City Marathon, Disney Marathons and the Life Time Miami Marathon/Half Marathon. The company makes containers available so the peels are composted after the events.
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