Since its inception in 1997, Secret Recipe has delighted customers with delectable hot meals and high-quality cakes. However, what many people may not realise is the significant amount of food waste generated during production. This waste includes eggshells, fruit remains (such as banana peels, carrot tops and lemon skin), cake trimmings and vegetable scraps. On average, around 1 tonne of waste is produced every week. It was about five years ago that Secret Recipe began exploring methods to address this issue, aiming to repurpose the waste for better use.
Innovative Solutions
One of the primary methods Secret Recipe adopted was collaborating with organic farmers, including community farm owners associated with their NGO partner, The Lost Food Project. These farmers periodically collect selected food waste which they then use in permaculture or organic farming.
The collected food waste is predominantly used in composting practices, breaking it down into mulch or organic fertiliser. This process not only enriches the soil but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise result from food waste decomposing in landfills.
In addition, some of its partners have experimented with using their food waste to feed black soldier fly larvae. This innovative approach creates a circular economic system, where the larvae consume the food waste, converting it into organic animal or pet feed. This, in turn, produces organic meat and eggs, thus promoting sustainable farming practices.
Experimenting and Innovating
At Secret Recipe, they have experimented with various composting methods, including hot composting and vermicomposting. While these methods did not initially yield the desired results, the introduction of a compost digesting machine from their vendor, BioMate, marked a significant improvement. This machine efficiently breaks down large volumes of food waste within a short time frame, producing ready-to-use organic compost.
Producing High-Quality Compost
The quality of the compost produced varies based on the type of waste input. Through a period of trial and error, Secret Recipe discovered that starchy waste, such as bread or flour, yields the best texture. They avoid overly moist or oily waste like chocolate cake sponge, cream or potato remains to maintain compost quality.
Ensuring that the compost is properly sieved and presentable before being sold at their outlets, with the harder parts set aside for organic farms. Their compost has yielded impressive results for many organic farms, contributing to healthier soil, larger crops and more frequent fruiting seasons.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Their compost initiatives have allowed them to actively participate in various community events and environmental expos. Additionally, Secret Recipe proudly offered their compost as a sponsor gift at the CSR Malaysia Awards 2024, receiving widespread appreciation for the company’s efforts.
Secret Recipe is committed to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable practices, ensuring a positive impact on the environment and the community.
