What Exactly Is Edible Upcycling?

Nearly 40% of food produced in and exported to the United States is wasted each year with most of it going to landfills. This is an unsustainable practice; one that we’re seeking to combat with Flock’s method of edible upcycling.

What exactly is edible upcycling?

Edible upcycling is the use of ingredients in foods that otherwise would not have gone to human consumption, are procured and produced using verifiable supply chains, and have a positive impact on the environment. It’s a term that was coined by a group of academic, non profit, and industry stakeholders to help food companies identify their ingredients as helping to reduce food waste.

How does Flock support the upcycling movement?

Well, chicken skins are a nutrient dense ingredient which have been historically overlooked and left for refuse. By utilizing this resource through the creation of our snack (we buy chicken skins which would in most cases be considered food waste and end up in landfills), we’re actively fighting against America's food waste problem and paving the way for future categories to rethink innovation and sustainability. From start to finish, health and sustainability are at the forefront of our process here at Flock.

How can I get started with upcycling food?

Upcycling food helps reduce your overall food waste, and over time, will improve the environment significantly. One way to do this is to reimagine how you cook; save vegetable stems from one meal, and throw them into another. Instead of tossing away peels, find a recipe that incorporates them! Another easy way to do this that requires no effort or planning is to check out products made using edible foods that would have been thrown away or used in other commercial uses (ie. our Flock Chicken Skin Crisps!).