Around 16 tonnes of cosmetically imperfect fruit and vegetables to be recovered and used in the first six months of the trial.
1 The context
Failing to use agricultural products that are fit for consumption purely for cosmetic reasons is one of the most serious distortions of the global food supply chain. This phenomenon is not only a waste of food and scarce natural resources (water, land and energy), but also means a heavy economic loss for local producers. The value of food must include not just the final price, but also respect for farm work, the quality of the food and the protection of producers’ incomes.
2 The initiative
To respond concretely to this challenge, Camst group has joined forces with Agribologna and Conor (Agribologna Group) in the “Scelti perché buoni” project. The initiative involves buying and using in the kitchen healthy, safe and nutritious fruit and vegetables that would risk being excluded from the market because of small visual defects. From 1 July 2026, seasonal vegetables such as courgettes, aubergines, cucumbers and carrots are being included in the recipes and menus of six Tavolamica self-service restaurants in the Bologna metropolitan area, turning a potential surplus into a resource, preventing food waste and supporting the local agricultural supply chain.
3 The result
In its first six months, the project aims to make use of around 16 tonnes of produce, demonstrating the feasibility of a short, integrated supply chain model that brings together agriculture, logistics and food service. As well as saving resources and providing direct economic support to producers, “Scelti perché buoni” acts as a tool to raise cultural awareness among customers. By promoting more conscious and responsible consumer choices, Camst shows how fighting food waste upstream can generate shared value for the local area, the environment and people.