Across the world, wasting food is turned into a habit for many people. And maybe you’re also one of them. Anyways, such habits can put extra strain on the environment and thus, damage our environment. Even daily tonnes of edible food is wasted or lost at a worldwide level.
If you’ll reduce waste, it means you respect that food is given to people who go to sleep hungry every day. Well, it is up to you, if you want to change this food-wasting habit and make it a way of life. That’s why we have come up with some tips to reduce food waste so that you can reconnect to food.
Table of contents
What is food waste?
Food waste can be described as the disposal or loss of food that is intended for human consumption but unfortunately failed to be consumed. It can occur at several food supply chain stages, such as consumption, retail, distribution, processing, and production. Food waste can take distinctive forms like edible food that are left uneaten or got discarded. Even it comprises inedible parts of food like cores.
Nowadays, food waste is turned into a global issue with serious social, environmental, and economic implications. Suppose food is got wasted, in that case, all the resources like water, labor, etc used in production get wasted. In simple words, it leads to exacerbating environmental problems and valuable resources squandering.
A comprehensive approach is a must while addressing food waste. It comprises action at all stages of the food supply chain and changes in public policies and consumer behavior. Thus, you can follow tips to prevent food waste to promote a more equitable and sustainable food system.
How can food waste be reduced?
If you want to combat hunger and promote sustainability, then reducing food waste is a vital step. You have to just minimize the food amount that goes to waste, and boom, you’ll aid in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserve resources and at last, ensure food is given to those who need it. That’s why we have come up with ideas to reduce food waste to help you out:
1) Plan meals
Before heading towards your nearest grocery store, it would be better to plan your meals in advance and according to those plans make a shopping list. With this, you can buy only whatever is required, and there will be less chance of buying unnecessary items that you might dump into the dustbin later.
2) Proper storage
If you want to extend your food shelf life then store them correctly. For this, you’ve to understand the optimal storage conditions for distinctive kinds of food like perishable items. For instance, you’ve to store some products in the refrigerator. On the other hand, other produce are only kept at room temperature. You can also maintain the freshness of food by using wraps and airtight containers.
3) First in, first out
The “first in, first out” principle should be followed while adding new items to the pantry and unpacking groceries. In simple words, place your newer ones at the back, and at the front, you can place older ones. With this, older items can be used first, which will reduce the likelihood of them turning bad or expiring.
4) Portion control
You can easily avoid excess food being discarded by serving appropriate portion sizes. In this case, start serving with a smaller portion, and if they want more, then offer a second one. So, asking people is the best option rather than just throwing away your leftovers.
5) Use leftovers creatively
Use your creativity to repurpose your leftovers into new dishes. For instance, stale bread can be turned into breadcrumbs or croutons. Also, you can use leftover vegetables to transform into soup or stir-fry. Using leftovers aids in stretching food and minimizing waste.
6) Freeze excess food
Suppose you have surplus food and your tummy is full, then it would be better to freeze them for later use rather than leave it to spoil. Freezing will preserve your food so that you can enjoy it later.
7) Composting
You can establish a composting system for non-edible leftovers and food scraps. Composting can turn food waste into nutrient-rich soil. Further, it can be used in your potted plants and garden. Well, the thing to note here is that it reduces food waste and also contributes to sustainable gardening.
8) Donate to food banks or shelters
Rather than throwing away surplus food, you can donate it to shelters, community organizations, or food banks, which redistribute food to needy people. With this, you can ensure that your food is utilized to support vulnerable populations.
9) Be mindful of expiration dates
Keep an eye on the expiration dates of food products, and according to guidelines, use them. But it is vital to note that several foods can be even consumed after their expiration, but you’ve to store them properly so that there is no spoilage sign. In this case, always trust your sense to determine if your food is still perfect to eat.
10) Educate and raise awareness
You can spread awareness among friends, family, and the wider community about the importance of reducing food waste. All you have to just encourage others for adopting sustainable practices. Also, you can share our tips with them to reduce food waste at the household level.
Conclusion
It is a well-known fact that every day tonnes of edible food get dumped into dustbins. Also, huge quantities of food get wasted at the consumer or retail level. But by adopting food waste tips in your daily life habits, you can make a global impact. So, we just want to say that not for the planet but at least for yourself give a try to tips.
