Food Linker: A Smart System for Global Waste Reduction
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15662/IJEETR.2026.0803002Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, Food Wastage Reduction, Spoilage Detection, Donation Tracking, Image Recognition, Expiry Prediction, MERN Stack, SMS Alerts, NGO Coordination, Zero HungerAbstract
Food wastage is a critical global challenge. Large quantities of surplus food from hotels, restaurants, and events are discarded daily while millions face food insecurity. This paper presents FOODLINKER, an Artificial Intelligence-based Sustainable Food Redistribution and Donation Tracking System. The system employs deep learning image recognition (TensorFlow, OpenCV) to assess food freshness and detect spoilage, assigns a color-coded safety status (Green / Yellow / Red), and monitors preparation time to calculate safe consumption windows. Built on a React.js frontend, Node.js/Express.js backend, and MongoDB cloud database, FOODLINKER connects donors with nearby NGOs and volunteers in real time. Automated SMS and push notifications alert stakeholders before food expiry. A gamified incentive mechanism comprising badges, certificates, and trust scores encourages consistent donor participation. The system demonstrates measurable improvements in donation coordination efficiency food safety assessment accuracy, and food wastage reduction, aligning with the United Nations SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption)
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