Whole Foods & Too Good To Go Tackle Food Waste in Groceries

November 12, 2025 at 10:36 PM
The Independent

Whole Foods Market has expanded its partnership with the food waste app Too Good To Go to all 530-plus U.S. locations, reinforcing its commitment to reducing food waste and promoting sustainability. Through the app, customers can purchase "Surprise Bags" filled with groceries nearing their sell-by date at a fraction of the retail cost, priced between $6.99 and $9.99. The bags, which include items like produce, meat, and seafood, offer an affordable and adventurous way to shop while combating food waste. This initiative reflects global efforts to address environmental sustainability and food security, providing inspiration for similar programs in Malta, where sustainable eating and reducing food waste are growing priorities. The partnership showcases how technology and innovation can drive positive change in the food sector, aligning with Malta’s Mediterranean lifestyle and emphasis on healthy, high-quality dining.

Whole Foods Market Expands Partnership with Too Good To Go: A Step Towards Tackling Food Waste and Promoting Healthy Living

Whole Foods Market has taken a bold step in its commitment to reducing food waste by expanding its partnership with the innovative food waste app, Too Good To Go, across all 530-plus U.S. locations. This initiative, which officially launched on Wednesday, offers shoppers an affordable and sustainable way to purchase groceries while supporting a healthier planet.

The concept is simple yet impactful: customers can reserve “Surprise Bags” of groceries nearing their sell-by date through the Too Good To Go app. These bags, which cost just a fraction of their retail value—between $6.99 and $9.99—are designed to help reduce food waste while allowing shoppers to stretch their food budgets. Seven new categories of “Surprise Bags” are now available, featuring a mix of produce, meat, seafood, and other grocery items. The contents remain a surprise until pickup, adding a fun and adventurous element to the experience.

This initiative aligns with growing global efforts to combat food waste, a pressing issue that directly impacts environmental sustainability and food security. For shoppers in Malta, where fresh and wholesome ingredients are central to the Mediterranean diet and healthy living, this model offers inspiration for reducing waste while maintaining access to nutritious food. It’s a reminder that simple actions, such as repurposing food nearing its expiry date, can contribute to both personal health and environmental well-being.

The Too Good To Go app, which is gaining popularity worldwide, allows users to reserve, pay for, and collect these bargain bags with ease. While the program is currently focused on the U.S., its success could pave the way for similar initiatives in Malta, especially given the nation’s rising interest in sustainable eating habits and reducing waste within the food and restaurant industry.

For those passionate about eating well and supporting local businesses, the idea of surprise grocery bags offers an exciting way to incorporate variety into weekly meal planning while prioritizing affordability and sustainability. Imagine receiving fresh produce or quality seafood at a reduced cost and transforming them into vibrant, nutrient-packed dishes inspired by Malta’s culinary traditions.

This partnership also highlights the importance of fostering innovation in the food sector to address critical challenges like food waste, affordability, and accessibility. As Malta continues to champion the Mediterranean lifestyle—renowned for its health benefits and longevity—initiatives like these can serve as valuable examples for local grocers, restaurants, and consumers alike.

Whether you’re seeking ways to reduce waste, save money, or simply embrace healthier eating habits, Whole Foods Market’s collaboration with Too Good To Go demonstrates how technology and sustainability can work hand in hand to create positive change. It’s a model worth watching and, perhaps, adapting to Malta’s thriving food scene in the future.