According to its website, MoNo aims to change consumer mindsets on foods past their “best before” dates that are still safe for consumption. It does so by diverting food from the bin or incinerator and “redistributing them to a community that believes in reducing food waste”.
“Ultimately, it is a win for all: Suppliers find a way to manage such inventory, consumers get perfectly edible food at discounted prices and most importantly, it helps to combat food waste and save our environment as less food waste ends up in incineration plants, saving on electricity required to run these plants.”
CONVENIENCE IS IMPORTANT
Regarding their search for another space in the downtown area, Mr Shee said that convenience for shoppers is of utmost priority. Based on feedback, many of their patrons value an easily accessible location, with price being a secondary consideration.
Many drop by after work to pick up what they need and make this a daily routine, he added.
CNA observed a steady stream of people of all ages visiting the space on Thursday evening, some with trolley bags in tow. Among the popular items was the oat milk, with one shopper taking home a box of six cartons.
Although MoNo will be on a physical hiatus from this weekend, they will continue working with several food rescue groups behind the scenes until they can find a new home for their wares.
On their wish list is to find another location that is air conditioned and within their budget, similar to their makeshift space in Hotel Calmo.
This helps ensure that all their products stay in the best condition possible for a longer period of time. Although MoNo does not stock perishables, Mr Shee said that items such as potato chips can degrade faster in warmer temperatures.
