(File Photo of Lancaster County Farm)

(Reported by Danielle Smith of Keystone News Service)

(Harrisburg, PA) You might be surprised to learn that surplus chocolate candy and other treats often find a new home on industrial farms. In Pennsylvania, since 2011, Hershey has been selling its candy waste to meat producer Cargill, which transforms it into feed for cows, pigs and other animals. Economics Professor Kathryn Bender at the University of Delaware says food waste is a significant issue, and companies are trying to minimize the amount that ends up in landfills and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The North American Pet Pig Association says candy in all forms is unhealthy for pigs. Bender points out that to reduce food waste, companies must first measure it. Only by tracking waste can businesses make adjustments to reduce overproduction and increase efficiency.