The Pros and Cons of the Too Good To Go App

In recent years, food waste has become a significant environmental and ethical concern.

Enter Too Good To Go, an app designed to combat this issue by connecting users with businesses offering discounted surplus food. 

While the app has gained a lot of attention for its innovative approach to reducing food waste, it’s not without its challenges.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of using the Too Good To Go app, which was founded in Denmark and now operates throughout Europe, the UK and the USA.

The Pros

1. Reducing Food Waste

At its core, Too Good To Go is a sustainability champion. By purchasing surplus food that would otherwise be thrown away, users contribute to reducing food waste, which is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Affordable Meals

For budget-conscious consumers, the app is a potential goldmine. Many businesses offer “Magic Bags” filled with food at significantly reduced prices, often costing less than half the original price. This makes it an excellent option for students, families, and anyone looking to save money.

3. Supporting Local Businesses

The app provides an additional revenue stream for restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores, helping them recoup some of their losses from unsold food. It’s also a way for customers to discover and support local businesses they might not have visited otherwise.

4. Element of Surprise

For adventurous eaters, the unpredictability of what’s in a Magic Bag can be exciting. It’s like opening a mystery box, with the added bonus of delicious food. 

The app is user-friendly, with clear instructions and an easy booking process. Users can filter by location and pick-up times, making it simple to find options that fit their schedule.

The Cons

1. Limited Control Over Contents

While the mystery aspect can be fun, it’s not ideal for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. You don’t know what you’re getting until you pick it up, which can lead to wasted food if it’s not to your taste or fits your needs.

2. Inconsistent Quality and Quantity

The quality and quantity of the food in Magic Bags can vary greatly. Some users report receiving excellent value, while others feel short-changed with items that are stale, mouldly, nearing their expiration date, well beyond expiration date the or not worth the price.

3. Limited Availability

Magic Bags often sell out quickly, especially from popular businesses. This can be frustrating for users who miss out despite checking the app regularly.

4. Environmental Impact of Pick-Ups

While the app aims to reduce waste, the environmental benefits can be offset if users drive long distances to collect their orders. The carbon emissions from transportation could undermine the app’s sustainability goals.

5. Short Shelf Life

Since the food is surplus, it often needs to be consumed quickly. This might not be convenient for users who don’t have immediate plans to eat or store the items properly.

Final Thoughts

Too Good To Go is a fantastic initiative for those looking to save money, support local businesses, and reduce their environmental footprint. However, it’s not without its challenges, especially for those with specific dietary needs or expectations of consistency.

If you’re willing to embrace a bit of unpredictability and act quickly to secure a Magic Bag, the app can be a rewarding experience. Ultimately, it’s a small step towards tackling the larger issue of food waste—one meal at a time.

Have you tried Too Good To Go? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!