STOP FOOD WASTE DAY
April 29 is #StopFoodWasteDay, a global movement to help prevent food waste.
It’s hard to imagine people wasting food, but in Canada 63% of household food waste could be saved and eaten, saving households approximately $1,500 per year or $125 per month.
Sadly, it’s nutritious food like fruits, vegetables and grains that go to waste. Whether it is uneaten leftovers, perishable food that is ‘bought and forgot’ or packaged food that is past its best before date – it is all food waste that could be prevented with better planning, preparing and storing.
Why Stop Food Waste
Globally, nearly one-third of all food produced is wasted. When you waste food, you’re not just wasting your money but also the resources that went into making that food – the land, water, energy and labour is all wasted too. When food is thrown away it breaks down releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, that negatively impacts our climate and planet.
What You Can Do To Stop Food Waste
No one plans to waste food, but we can all plan not to. Here are some easy tips to stop wasting food and start saving time and money.
- Plan meals and make a list before you shop
- Store foods properly so they last longer
- Eat the most perishable items first as they break down quickly
- Freeze unused veggies and use them later in soups and stews
- Save stale bread for breadcrumbs or croutons
- Use overripe fruits in desserts and smoothies
- Find recipes for stir-fries, veggie bowls or casseroles that are ideal for using leftover veggies and other ingredients from your pantry
By making new, simple habits you can waste less food, save more money and feel good about the positive impacts for you, your family and the environment.
Find more meal planning tips and food-saving inspiration at york.ca/GoodFood
