12. Principles of Gleaning

Be understanding of the minutiae of factors which can contribute to food waste on farms, conducting liaisons with farmers in a polite, sympathetic and professional manner
Be mindful not to over-contact farmers, to contact them without sufficient reason, or to contact them against their wishes (if they have expressed this)
Be mindful of the farmer’s requests with regards to publicising gleaning. Do not publicly acknowledge the specific farm or their circumstances without checking first that the farm is happy to be mentioned
Do not use, sell or re-purpose any gleaned or donated produce, for a purpose the farmer has not agreed with in advance, especially for financial gain
If using harvesting knives, do not invite volunteers who are under 18 to take part in the gleaning day, unless the young person is under the supervision of a suitable parent or guardian who has provided written confirmation that they understand and accept the risks.

Food waste is a symptom of an unfair, inefficient and ecologically catastrophic food system, and should be viewed through this lens. Redistributing food waste is a great opportunity to provide a short term solution to, but should not be seen as a solution to food insecurity.

The principles from the food use hierarchy should be adhered to when undertaking all gleaning related activities
Where possible, gleaning should aim to achieve three central objectives 1) Redirecting fresh produce at risk of being wasted for human consumption 2) Offering participants/volunteers a beneficial outdoor experience connecting with nature and food production 3) Highlighting the factors within the food system which give rise to food waste on farms and the actors who contribute to this
Actively get as many people involved from different backgrounds, be welcoming and understanding of different people’s specific/additional needs
Regardless of the size, type or specific practices of each farm, always treat the grower with courtesy and respect, even if they practice farming in a way that you disagree with

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