Abstract

Plateful was developed as a web-based platform to reduce food waste by connecting surplus food sources with food banks, shelters, and communities in need. The system featured real-time donation listings, intelligent inventory management, expiration tracking, and automated notifications. Built using React, Node.js with Express, and SQL Server, the platform addressed the critical intersection of food waste and food insecurity while implementing robust security measures including Active Directory integration and SecOnion firewall protection. The project demonstrated a scalable, community-centered technical solution that decreased environmental impact while improving access to nutritious food for underserved populations. Through systematic development using Agile methodology, comprehensive testing strategies, and user-centered design principles, the team successfully created a production-ready system that bridged the gap between surplus food providers and recipients, enabling data-driven decision making for waste reduction efforts.