Food banks and technology together to fight hunger in Europe

Date: 2025-05-27
Author: Giacomo Sini

Does the future of food donation rely on technology? Smart systems are changing how we connect surplus food with the people who need it most, all while ensuring their dietary requirements and privacy are protected. In this recent episode of the Digital Food Podcast, Harris Niavis and Sara Albo are tackling this challenge head-onwiththe PINACLE project, an AI-powered ecosystem to better shape food donations.

Food banks’ hidden problems

Traditional food donation systems, while well-intentioned, suffer from critical flaws that prevent them from reaching their full potential:

  • Outdated inventory systems
  • Perishable item waste
  • Generic food packages
  • Cultural food mismatches
  • Volunteer burnout
  • Financial constraints

As Sara powerfully explains: “What is missing in today’s food donation system is having a fast and reliable way of matching the specific food for the specific person who has specific needs when it comes to nutrition.”

Technology that serves human needs

The PINACLE project represents a paradigm shift in how we think about food donations:

  • Step 1: profile creation (health conditions, cultural preferences integration, accessibility)
  • Step 2: Real-time food tracking
  • Step 3: Intelligent matching algorithm

Transforming lives, one meal at a time

The Food Bank of Western Greece, managed by CodeTogether, provides a powerful example of what’s possible when technology meets compassion:

  • 35 tons of food distributed in their first year of operation—that’s equivalent to approximately 140,000 meals for people in need
  • 3+ tons monthly distribution rate demonstrates consistent, reliable service to the community
  • Six municipality partnerships create a comprehensive support network across the entire Western Greece region
  • Dignity preservation: Recipients receive food that matches their needs rather than whatever happens to be available
  • Health improvement focus: Diabetics receive appropriate foods, people with heart conditions get low-sodium options, and those with allergies receive safe alternatives

Sara beautifully captures this transformation: “You don’t give just food to a person that needs it. You give food that is designed on their needs. They will truly feel heard, seen, and helped.”

The broader vision

The ultimate goal extends far beyond just improving food banks—it’s about creating a comprehensive food system that serves everyone:

  • Universal food security: A system where geographic location, economic status, or physical limitations don’t determine access to nutritious food
  • Cultural food sovereignty: Communities maintain access to culturally appropriate foods that support their traditions and identity
  • Health-focused distribution: Food assistance actively supports better health outcomes rather than just preventing hunger
  • Waste elimination: Technology-driven matching that ensures surplus food reaches consumers before spoiling
  • Seamless user experience: Systems so intuitive that recipients can focus on their needs rather than navigating complex bureaucracy

Harris envisions: “An ideal food system will ensure equitable access to nutritious food while minimizing waste and environmental impact through technology and local resources.”

Building tomorrow’s food system today

The intersection of artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and human compassion represents one of the most promising solutions to food waste and hunger we’ve ever seen. The PINACLE project and similar initiatives prove that technology can be a force for good when applied thoughtfully to human problems.

But technology alone isn’t enough. It requires all of us—individuals, organizations, and policymakers—to embrace new approaches and support innovative solutions. Whether you donate your time, your money, your skills, or simply your voice, you have a role to play in creating a food system that serves everyone with dignity and effectiveness.

This article is based on an extended discussion on the Digital Food Podcast; tune in and educate your network!