I just read an article on Huffington Post about the staggering amount of food Americans waste every day. Roughly $165 BILLION dollars a year! That’s insane!
This isn’t just a money issue either. To quote the article directly, “Just a 15 percent reduction in losses in the U.S. food supply would save enough to feed 25 million Americans annually.” Not to mention it would save on resources that it takes to produce the food and reduce the amount of landfill space wasted food takes up when it ends up in the trash.
This article really got me thinking. What are some ways we can reduce our food waste at home, and while we’re at it save some money?
One thing I’ve started doing more with my family is meal planning. If I know what meals I’m making for the week I don’t buy extra groceries I don’t need and we waste less. Planning can also be a money saver if you plan according to what’s on sale at the supermarket and use coupons.
Another way to reduce waste is by being creative. A little creativity will go a long way in the kitchen! Just look at TV shows like Food Network’s Chopped. Each chef gets a basket of ingredients and the one who makes the best tasting, most creative use of the items in his or her basket wins. Why not give that a shot at home with ingredients found in your own kitchen?
That’s all I’ve got for now, but I would love to hear from you! What tips can you share fore reducing food waste? Comment below!
photo credit: Gentleridevan via photo pin cc
You really hit on a key element with meal planning and not purchasing more than you need!
When I had teens and leftovers, I found if I packaged leftovers together as a meal pack or plate they were more appealing, easier to reheat, and way more likely to be eaten that if they were in separate containers in the fridge.
Definitely! Proof that convenience food doesn’t always have to be junk!