Date : 03-02-2025

Question :

Our association is launching a charitable initiative to collect surplus food from restaurants, hotels, and other establishments and distribute it to families in need, ensuring all health standards are met. Does this initiative qualify as an act of charity?

The Answer :

All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.


It is forbidden to throw any edible food in the trash because food is a blessing from Allah, and throwing it away is a disrespect to this blessing in two ways: Firstly: it shows contempt for the blessing and is a form of ingratitude, while Muslims are obligated to be grateful to Allah for His blessings and gifts. Secondly: this act involves wasting money, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade wasting money, saying: 'Indeed, Allah dislikes for you three things: talking too much about others, wasting wealth, and asking too many questions about religion. "[Agreed upon].


Furthermore, preserving leftover food is considered one of the matters that align with the spirit and principles of Islamic law. This is because it involves expressing gratitude for Allah's blessings. Allah Says (What means): "And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will increase you [in good], but if you deny My favors, indeed, My punishment is severe. " [Ibrahim/7]. Therefore, this act is rewarded by Allah. If the intention behind it is to feed the poor and needy, the reward is doubled.


The practice of collecting surplus food and distributing it to those in need, while maintaining high standards of hygiene and respect for human dignity, is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. This act reflects gratitude for Allah's blessings and fulfills the Islamic obligation of charity. It also contributes to a more just and equitable society. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.