5 Ways to Reduce Food Waste at Home

Did you know that the average American family throws out an estimated 31.9% of its food? That adds up to $1,866 in wasted grocery expenses each year for every household.[1] Some families are more careful, but even the most frugal ones throw out 8.7% of their food, so there’s room for improvement for everyone. Here are 5 ways you can make the most of your grocery budget.

1. Make a list and shop for meals, not deals

Sure, that “buy 4 get 1” sale on artichokes might look good in the store, but do you know what you’ll use it for? Will the kids eat it? The first step to reducing kitchen waste is going to the grocery store with a list based on meals you’ll prepare for the week. It’ll take some planning, but the time you spend before heading to the supermarket helps you save big in the long run.

2. Stock the fridge like a grocery store: First in, first out

When you come back from the store, stock your fridge like a grocery store clerk: oldest items in the front, newest items in the back. If you’re placing new food in the front, you’re pushing the older items to the back, where it’s out of sight and out of mind. And too often, we discover spoiled food weeks later. Instead, keep a first in, first out system to make sure you’re using everything in the fridge.

3. Extend the life of your food

Food might come with a date on the packaging, but may not stick to that defined schedule. Some food spoils before the package date, others may be fine past the date. Your best bet is to learn ways to prolong their life. Popular techniques include wrapping lettuce in paper towel, storing onion and potato separately, and marinating chicken breast before freezing. Oh, and overripe bananas are great for banana bread!

4. Keep a waste journal

One great way to reduce waste is by keeping a food waste diary like this one. If you keep track of what’s thrown out and how much, you’ll probably start to see patterns. Use the findings to buy less of what you throw out and adjust your portion sizes.

5. Prepare a weekly fridge clearance meal

Do you watch those cooking shows, where the contestants create dishes based on a theme ingredient? That’s the idea behind a weekly “use up” meal around food that needs to be used. It’ll help even more if you set aside an “eat me now” section in your fridge for items that are about to go bad. These meals will help you reduce waste, clear space in your fridge and give you a chance to get creative.

Do you have any tips for reducing food waste? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page!

[1] Forbes.com, January 2020