Wastage of food has become a huge issue in Western and North American countries. In Canada, every household throws out food worth USD 1,100 every year according to studies. We do that because we have more than enough irrespective of the fact that there are less fortunate people around the world and also around us too. Here are some tips that you can use for reducing food waste.
1. Plan Your Meals and Make a Shopping List
Planning your meals ahead is like the number one rule of not wasting food. If you pre-plan your meals you are only buying what you essentially need. There will be no impulse buying and also you will not over-purchase groceries. Check your pantry, fridge, or cupboards and make a list of what you already have and a list of what you might need. It’s very simple.
2. Get Creative with Leftovers
Most of us have a bad habit of throwing out leftovers from all the meals. That is something that directly affects the wastage of food all around the world. Instead of throwing them away, make them useful for your next meal if it has not gone stale. Leftover chicken can be used to make a soup or for a salad. Learning leftovers is a strategy for reducing food waste.
3. Store Food Properly
Did you know that storing food properly will help your groceries last longer? Garlic, onions, and potatoes should be kept in a cool, dark place. To keep leafy greens crisp for longer, wash, pat dry, and store in a paper towel-lined container. Do not overlook your freezer either! When bread, fruit, or meat reaches the end of its shelf life, freeze it so you may eat it later.
4. Use Your Freezer Wisely
One of the finest appliances for cutting down on food waste is the freezer, incidentally. Prepare extra servings of dishes to freeze for hectic evenings. Additionally, you can freeze tiny portions of broths, sauces, or even chopped herbs in ice cube trays for use in other recipes. In this manner, you may prevent wasting ingredients and have quick supper options available.
5. Know the Difference Between “Best Before” and “Expiry” Dates
Perfectly good food is frequently thrown away by consumers who mistake “best before” dates for expiration dates. Not because eating it is dangerous; rather, “best before” just indicates that the quality is at its finest before that date. Consider taste, smell, and appearance before discarding something.
6. Compost What You Can’t Use
Composting food that you do not consume is a fun and eco-friendly way of reducing waste of food. Get biodegradable food and collect it in a tall bin with an opening at the side at the bottom. Put waste food from the top, withdraw your investment after three months, and repeat. Now you have a sustainable way of recycling your food waste and a free supply of fertilizer for your plants. It’s a double win.
One meal at a time, you can save money and the environment by decreasing food waste in your kitchen with the aid of these
