The Iowa Food Bank Association (IFBA) announced 27.1 million pounds of food was rescued in 2023 by the six Feeding America food banks serving Iowa. IFBA food banks supplement their inventories with partnerships with grocery and convenience stores, manufacturers, growers and restaurants, keep pantry shelves stocked, and bring food waste down to as low as 3%, according to a prepared statement. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, up to 40% of the U.S. food supply is wasted every year.  “Food rescue is a primary function of food banks,” said Linda Gorkow, executive director of the Iowa Food Bank Association, in the statement. “Food banks rescue perfectly good packaged and uncooked food that is safe to eat and use it to help feed those in our communities who do not have enough food.” The Food Bank of Iowa, an IFBA member, and its partners rescued 7.1 million pounds in 2023.