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Spain Enforces Food-Waste Law for Large Grocers and Food Firms

New rules require formal plans with a strict reuse order for unsold food to drive sharp cuts in waste by 2030.

Overview

  • As enforcement begins, companies with premises over 1,300 m² must run prevention plans that pinpoint where waste occurs and set fixes.
  • Unsold food must first be reworked for people to eat, then donated, then diverted to animal feed or other industries, with composting only as a last step.
  • Regional governments will inspect compliance, which could result in different approaches to checks across Spain.
  • The sanction regime is active with warnings and fines up to €60,000 for serious breaches and up to €500,000 for repeat violations.
  • Food banks report a rise in outreach from retailers and producers as donation becomes a duty, while households still create 97.5% of Spain’s food waste.