Mr. Potato Head Becomes Face of Anti-Food Waste Movement

Toy Story star, Mr. Potato Head uses his fame to aid a charitable cause! Hasbro UK has partnered up with ASDA, a UK-based grocery chain, to create a “Wonky Mr. Potato Head” complete with iconic detachable parts. Why go from Picasso to Dali? To make a less picturesque, more biologically accurate depiction of a potato, and consequently shed light on food waste. 

According to a 2013 report by UK’s Institution of Mechanical Engineers, almost half of the world’s produce is wasted, due in large part to consumers’ demand for cosmetically perfect food. Wonky Mr. Potato Head reminds us that misshapen produce are just as nutritious and worthy of your money as their more ideal-looking counterparts.

More than simply creating word of mouth for the cause, Hasbro and ASDA are auctioning off this limited edition toy and donating the full amount to FareShare, a charity that aims to reduce food waste and food poverty in disadvantaged communities in the UK. Hasbro explained, “Every £1 we raise will mean we can provide enough food to make four meals for vulnerable and hungry men, women and children.”

Though this gesture is insignificant on a global scale, I’m sure it will mean the world to the 940 people who will enjoy a warm meal thanks to the £235.00 that this toy is currently going for. 

And we can all agree this is a better use of Mr. Potato Head’s likeness than those odd (and cannibalistic) Lay’s potato chip commercials.

To participate in the auction, click here. For our tips on reducing food waste at home, click here.