The nonprofit picks up ready-to-eat food and delivers it, free of charge, to Lowcountry nonprofits serving the food-insecure population. Cuisine Rescue does not, however, accept food that has already been served or displayed, including on buffets and in cafeterias, due to health regulations.
In order for donated food to be accepted by charitable organizations, it should be packaged in food-grade containers and delivered in a vehicle with special equipment to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Insulated coolers, insulated blankets, ice packs, hot boxes or refrigerated compartments can all be used to provide temperature control, according to the Conference for Food Protection.
Since April 2022, Cuisine Rescue has made more than 2,000 food rescues and redistributed nearly 228,000 pounds of food, Smiley said. He estimates that their efforts have helped create nearly 200,000 meals. Still, the nonprofit struggles to find food donors, he said.
For restaurants that may be concerned about potential liability, the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act grants liability protections to those who make “good faith donations of food to nonprofit organizations for ultimate distribution to needy individuals at zero cost or at a good Samaritan reduced price.”
Restaurants, caterers and other food providers that donate surplus food may also be eligible for federal tax deductions or state tax incentives.
Now that Barsa has closed, where do you recommend for good paella?
— Jalane
With just a handful of Spanish restaurants operating in Charleston, your paella options are relatively limited, Jalane. I suggest visiting Malagón for its rotating paella selection, which might incorporate grouper cheeks and Jimmy Nardello peppers one day, then squid, mussels and clams the next.
Dining and Cooking