Forefront Partners With Leanpath to Bring AI-Enabled Food Waste Management to Their Kitchens

BEAVERTON, Ore., April 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Forefront, a specialized culinary and support services company serving organizations in healthcare, senior living, education and government throughout the United States, has partnered with Leanpath to reduce its food waste using AI-enabled food waste solutions.

At four of its client sites, Forefront culinary teams are now tracking their food waste using Leanpath technology, giving them clear insight into what is being wasted and why. Using AI-driven recommendations, Leanpath helps these teams implement operational changes to reduce waste, cut costs, and enhance sustainability efforts.

"Like most culinary-focused companies, Forefront has been actively searching for solutions to counter the rising cost of food without passing these increases on to those we serve and partner with," explains Rob Pasos, Forefront's President of Culinary and Nutrition Services. "Leanpath was an obvious choice to help us develop a waste management solution through the use of technology and better practices."

Forefront customizes its foodservice programs to each client's needs, focusing on regionally inspired menus and locally sourced ingredients. Ensuring that food is utilized efficiently is a natural extension of this mission.

"We put so much focus on our culinary programs, and the last thing we want to see is any of that food going to waste," says Corporate Director of Communications, Brendan Buffa.

Food waste is a critical issue worldwide. One-third of all food produced is lost or wasted each year, with the foodservice industry accounting for one-quarter of that waste. According to Leanpath data, 5% to 15% of a commercial kitchen's food purchases are wasted—a costly inefficiency both financially and environmentally.

"Most foodservice kitchens lack clear visibility into what is being wasted and why," said Leanpath Founder and CEO Andrew Shakman. "Leanpath not only provides that data but also uses AI and behavioral science to engage culinary teams in preventing waste before it happens. We're thrilled to partner with Forefront to support their sustainability mission."

"Leanpath's AI-driven insights empower our teams to make data-informed decisions, minimize waste, and drive sustainability in our kitchens," explains Pasos. "As a tech-forward company, we value partnerships that push the boundaries of innovation, and Leanpath's advancements align perfectly with our commitment to efficiency and environmental responsibility."

About Forefront
Forefront is a specialized culinary and support services company serving mission driven organizations in healthcare, senior living, education and government throughout the United States. We create healthy, nourishing foods and maintain clean, safe and resilient environments that enhance the lives and communities we serve. For more information, visit www.oneforefront.com.

ABOUT LEANPATH
Leanpath, a Certified B-Corp, is on a mission to make food waste prevention and measurement everyday practice in the world's kitchens. Operating in over 50 countries, Leanpath's AI-enabled solutions identify root causes of food waste and change behaviors that lead to that waste. Since 2004, Leanpath and its foodservice partners have prevented over 150 million pounds of food from going to waste. Learn more at www.leanpath.com.

Media Contact:
Sam Smith
503-828-9903
[email protected]

SOURCE Leanpath