Frequently Asked Questions

United Provision Inc is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to combating hunger and crisis by rescuing excess food from restaurants and retailers, freeze-drying it for longevity, storing a portion for emergencies, and redistributing the rest to those in need. We also purchase additional food to support our efforts.

There are several ways to get involved:

1. Volunteer with our food rescue, preparation and packaging, distribution, or disaster response teams.
2. Donate money or in-kind resources to support our operations.
3. Partner with us as a restaurant or retailer to donate excess food or as a corporate sponsor.
4. Spread the word about our mission through social media, hosting a food drive, or sharing your experience.

We adhere to strict food safety guidelines and work closely with food donors to ensure that all rescued food meets safety standards. Our volunteers and staff receive proper training on food handling, freeze-drying, and packaging processes.

We rescue a variety of excess food, including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, and prepared meals. We focus on nutritious, high-quality items that can be freeze-dried and stored safely before redistribution.

We work with local food banks, shelters, schools, and community organizations to distribute the rescued food to individuals and families facing hunger and food insecurity.

Please contact us using the “Partner with Us” button on our website or reach out to our team at info@unitedprovisionsinc.com to discuss how your restaurant or retail store can become a food donor.

Yes! We encourage community members to organize food drives to collect non-perishable items for our organization. Please contact us for guidelines and support in planning a successful food drive.

Yes, as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, all donations made to [Your Organization’s Name] are tax-deductible. Please consult your tax advisor for specific information regarding your individual tax situation.

Stay connected by following us on social media (Facebook, Instagram) and subscribing to our newsletter. We regularly share updates, news, and upcoming events.

Please use the “Contact Us” button on our website or email us at info@unitedprovisionsinc.com for any additional inquiries or assistance.

Freeze-dried food is the result of a preservation process that removes moisture from the food while maintaining its nutritional value, texture, and flavor. This process extends the shelf life of the food, making it an ideal choice for long-term storage, emergency situations, or reducing food waste.

United Provision Inc uses freeze-drying for several reasons:

1. Long shelf life: Freeze-dried food can last for years without losing nutritional value, making it ideal for our hunger relief efforts and emergency food reserves.
2. Reduced food waste: By extending the shelf life of rescued food, we can minimize waste and redistribute more food to those in need.
3. Lightweight and portable: Freeze-dried food is lightweight and easy to transport, making it suitable for distribution during disaster response efforts.

Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, involves a three-step process:

1. Freezing: The food is rapidly frozen, typically at temperatures below -40°F (-40°C).
2. Primary drying (sublimation): The frozen food is placed in a vacuum chamber, where low pressure causes the ice to turn directly into vapor, bypassing the liquid phase.
3. Secondary drying (desorption): Any remaining moisture is removed by raising the temperature slightly, ensuring that the food is completely dry.

The freeze-drying process preserves the food’s cellular structure, preventing the loss of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. By avoiding high temperatures and retaining the food’s original form, freeze-drying maintains the nutritional content of the food.

Freeze-dried food can be rehydrated by adding water, which is quickly absorbed by the food, restoring its original texture and flavor. Depending on the food item, rehydration may involve soaking in cold water, simmering in hot water, or adding water directly to the food.

Yes, freeze-dried food is safe to consume. The freeze-drying process removes moisture, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that cause spoilage. Additionally, [Your Organization’s Name] adheres to strict food safety guidelines and ensures that all rescued and freeze-dried food meets safety standards.

While many foods can be freeze-dried, some are better suited for the process than others. Fruits, vegetables, meats, and prepared meals generally freeze-dry well. Foods with high fat content or those that require cooking before consumption may not be ideal for freeze-drying.

For more information about freeze-drying and its applications, please visit our “Resources” page on our website, where you can find articles, videos, and other educational materials.