Second Harvest Heartland Embraces New Law To Allow Expired Egg Donations

Brooklyn Park food bank Second Harvest Heartland’s egg supply is set increase.

A new law now allows retailers and distributors to donate eggs to food shelves that are up to 30 days past their sell-by date.

The law passed unanimously in the state legislature.

Local leaders say it’s a big victory for state unity and food availability. They met up at ICA Food Shelf in Minnetonka to celebrate the wins.

Food safety experts say eggs are still good for up to 30 days after the sell-by date. The state allowing donation of those eggs makes thousands of cartons of eggs available for food shelves and their clients.

Second Harvest Heartland CEO Sarah Moberg said eggs are one of their most sought-after items.

“At a time when one in five Minnesota households doesn’t have the food that they need, we know that this new egg donation law will help get food into the community right where it’s needed,” Moberg said.

Gov. Tim Walz signed the bill, named the “Shell Egg Bill,” into law in May. It went into effect August 1.

The Minnesota Grocer’s Association said that before the law passed, thousands of dozens of eggs were thrown away.

Leaders say this change will hugely affect families and reduce food waste

Egg cartons at ICA food shelf with new distribution stickers.

Brooklyn Park | Twin Cities