UW researchers launch ‘little free pantry’ mapping pilot, internet-connected pantries in Seattle

UW News

Micropantries or community fridges throughout Seattle are the focus of a multi-disciplinary research team at UW which includes Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health faculty member Marie Spiker. This feature story by UW News highlights how the team is approaching data gathering to learn how much the pantries are used by placing weight and motion sensors.

May 8, 2026