Thanks to the likes of national treasure David Attenborough bringing environmental issues to the fore, we’ve been on a mission to reduce our plastic, cut back on our meat consumption and turndown our heating, but we’re still throwing away nearly one-third of our food.
Food left in landfills to rot becomes a significant source of methane – a potent greenhouse gas. By making simple changes to the way we shop, not only can we waste less food and help save our little blue planet, but we can also save significant amounts of money too. In the UK, the average household throws away £470 worth of food per year.
So, here are our top tips to help you waste less food, save money and save the planet in the process!
Plan your meals
Before you blindly head off for your weekly shop, check your fridge for any items that are nearing their use-by dates, or any vegetables that are looking less than fresh and create (or lookup!) some recipes with these ingredients in mind.
Sites such as BBC goodfood are an excellent source of inspiration and by taking an extra 10 minutes to write a list instead of blindly wandering the aisles being persuaded by special deals, you’ll not only reduce the volume of food you buy, but you’ll also save money too.
Also read, Want To Save Money? Buy Your Groceries More Often.
Sign up for a recipe box
Recipe subscription services are fast becoming the new norm. Not only do they save on a trip to the supermarket, but they’re full of midweek meal inspiration that will impress all the family. The subscription element means you’ll be able to better handle your outgoings and because everything’s measured out beforehand, you won’t waste any food either.
With more brands jumping on the recipe box bandwagon, you’re sure to find a subscription service that suits your taste buds and wallet!
Also read, Does Grapefruit diet Really Help People to lose Weight? If Yes, How?
Use the freezer to keep food fresh
Freezers can be used for so much more than convenience food. On a Sunday evening, cook up a storm in the kitchen and make your meals for the whole week, then freeze individual portions. Not only will this save time after a long day at work, but it will also stop you from needing to buy snacks on the way home as your dinner will be ready – all you have to do is defrost in the morning and heat in the evening.
Chopping up fresh herbs and vegetables before freezing is a great way of reducing the amount of fresh food that is thrown away. Once frozen, they can be used in soups and stews to add flavor, and frozen fruit is great in smoothies and frozen yogurts.
These small, simple changes will not only have a positive impact on reducing your food waste, but you’ll soon start seeing how much money you could save, too.
If everyone makes a concerted effort to change one thing, together we can bring our third rock from the sun, back from the brink.
