Get surplus food
put to good use

What is ‘surplus food’?

Surplus food happens when the supply of food exceeds the demand for it. There are many reasons this can happen. It can happen at every stage – manufacturers, retail outlets, hospitality providers, and in the home. Shrewsbury Food Hub collects surplus food from the commercial supply chain and gives it to local community groups and Foodshares who can eat it. Food is surplus to requirements or unsold – they may have overproduced, overstocked, the packaging may be damaged, or the food is on or past its best before date. Whatever the reason, it’s all good to eat!

I’m an individual. Can I donate food?

We direct individuals wanting to donate food to food banks or one of the many drop off points you see at local supermarkets. Any 'new' food that does come to us is sent to food banks.

How do I find my nearest Foodshare table?

There are 15 community Foodshare tables in Shrewsbury. Everyone is welcome to our Foodshares. They are run on a ‘pay-as-you-feel’ basis. Come along to help your purse and the planet! Food rescued varies depending on what is available – it could be bread, fruit + veg, eggs, store cupboard or chilled food like yogurt or pies. We never know what will be available on the day! Find your nearest Foodshare on our timetable. Arrive early, as food goes fast! If you are in financial crisis and need food parcels, household items or free debt and money advice, support and information is available here.

How often can someone take surplus food from the Hub?

Community Foodshares run throughout the week in local areas around the town. Everyone is welcome along to collect a few bags of food as often as they like. The food shared helps to stop good food being wasted and saves people money. Food rescued varies depending on what is available – it could be bread, fruit + veg, eggs, store cupboard or chilled food like yogurt or pies. We never know what will be available on the day!