ReFood - integration through work
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | ReCollab AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | May 2018 - January 2019 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Social innovation - development and testing |
| Call | Social innovation - step 1 |
Important results from the project
ReFood’s overall objective is to improve integration through work and to reduce waste in the food system by creating healthy products. We have employed two women who recently immigrated to Sweden and promoted integration by coaching, practicing Swedish and social activities. By selling 1544 UGLY smoothies, that contain 39-48% of the recommended daily intake of vegetables, to 14 customers/retailers we have saved 3300 kg of food from being wasted.
Expected long term effects
ReFood promotes a more sustainable future. By employing two women born outside of Sweden, ReFood provides an income, equality and inclusiveness. In the future, as the number of employees increase, ReFood will decrease social exclusion in society. By creating healthy UGLY smoothies we contribute to a more sustainable food system and provide a healthy snack filled with vegetables and fruit. Through communication and marketing we spread awareness about integration, food waste and health.
Approach and implementation
Initially the organization, collaborative partners and sales were prioritized to enable a sustainable strategy with secure employment and reduced food waste. The product development phase was time-consuming but created three delicious vegetable-based UGLY smoothies made out of 100% “ugly” fruits and veggies. Simultaneously strategies for up-scaling were established, including partnerships with e.g. more food waste suppliers.