Inconvenience Store saves four tonnes of food waste

In a single year this feel-good Thornbury store has prevented tonnes of food waste from landing on our rubbish dumps. And that’s not the only way they’re helping their fellow Melburnians.

Lentil As Anything's food rescue supermarket has saved four tonnes of food waste.

Thornbury’s popular pay-as-you-feel supermarket has turned one.

The Inconvenience Store takes in produce destined for landfill and sells it to customers for whatever price they can afford.

In its first year of operation the store has saved more than four tonnes of produce the tip and had more than 14,000 people through its doors.

The Food Without Borders team visit stores four times a week to pick up unwanted produce.

Lentil As Anything manager Dayle Jones said the store had a real mix of customers, from those doing it tough to others who just wanted to do their part in reducing food waste.

Ms Jones said the store played an important role in fighting food waste and insecurity.

“It’s not just for the people but it’s for the planet,” she said.

The Food Without Borders drives out four times a week to rescue produce from across Melbourne.

Partners include Preston Market, IGA Supermarkets and the Queen Victoria Market.

Ms Jones said they had regular donations of citrus fruits, leafy greens and dried food from locals too.

“It’s really activated the community,” she said.

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Ms Jones thanked the public for their support and encouraged anyone interested in helping out to come down and have a chat.

“We need people coming through the doors that can contribute,” she said.

Lentil As Anything is at 562-564 High St, Thornbury.

@richardapearce