Recognized as one of the major economic, social, and environmental problems of our time, food waste is an increasingly concerning reality.
According to the FAO—the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations—one-third of the world's food production is wasted every year. And because this is a problem that affects us all, we have put together . These are small daily actions, but they can make a difference!
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Plan your meals in advance and make shopping lists
Buy only what you need and avoid buying too much, even if this means going shopping more often. This way, you will reduce the possibility of some food going past its expiration date before you can use it.
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Organize your pantry, cupboards, and refrigerator
Always place food with the earliest expiration dates in the nearest and most visible locations. It is also important to periodically tidy the places where you store food. This way, you will have a better idea of what food you have at home and be able to manage it more effectively.
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Check food expiration dates when shopping
Always choose foods with the latest expiration dates from the time of purchase. This makes it less likely that they will expire before you consume them. The same rule can be applied to fruit and vegetables: choose those that are at an early stage of ripeness, as this means they will keep for longer at home.
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Store food correctly
Storing food correctly is essential for keeping it in good condition for longer periods. Therefore, always keep accessories and utensils at home to help with this task: airtight jars and bags, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap are some of the essentials to have nearby when preserving food.
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Weigh food when preparing meals
If you find it difficult to determine the right portions for your family's meals and always end up making too much food, try weighing or measuring the quantities of the ingredients you need.
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Make use of leftovers
There are many recipes you can use to avoid wasting leftovers or food. Use "stale" bread for toast, breadcrumbs, or specific recipes; make fresh juices with ripe fruit; or shred leftover meat for sandwiches and salads. There are many possibilities!
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Freeze food
From uncooked to already cooked food, the vast majority can be frozen. If this is a subject you are not familiar with, read up on it and find out the best way to freeze each type of food. Start putting your knowledge into practice and you will see how freezing can make a big difference to the amount you waste at home.
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Avoid impulse purchases
Buying things you do not usually use or do not really need often leads to waste. Follow the first tip in this article and buy only what is on your list. The planet will thank you, and so will your wallet!
