Reduce food waste. At home, the average American family throws away 14 percent of their food according to a USDA funded study in 2004. In terms of money, that's almost $600 every year in meats, fruit, vegetables and grain products. We lose money whenever we toss food because it spoiled before we got around to eating it. If leftovers get the “heave ho” because they’re left too long, we’re putting money in the garbage can. Make planning to avoid tossing foods a priority.
Plan the use of leftovers. They can be used in casseroles, soups, for snacks and in lunch boxes. If there is food waste in your household, ask yourself why...
- Are you buying food in the right quantities?
- Is food refused or left on the plate?
- Are servings too large?
- Is the food cooked properly?
Wasting leftovers increases food costs, so create a "leftovers" or "to use up list" and to post it on the fridge. This tip should significantly reduce the amount of food spoilage in our house. Not only will it save money, but allow you to eat more home-cooked food and less pre-packaged meals. If you too have a problem with food spoilage, learn how to keep track of leftovers using a leftovers list to save you time and money.
Spend Smart Strategy - Reduce waste by using what you have
Every year, 25 to 50 percent of the country's food is thrown in the garbage can. Try these ideas to reduce your food waste:
- Use see-through storage containers for refrigerated leftovers.
- Use leftovers in next-day breakfasts, lunches, snacks, or dinners.
- Label, date, and freeze leftover main dishes in meal-size servings.
- Check supplies before going to the store.
- Write the date on packaged foods before storing in freezer or cupboard. Arrange supplies so the oldest items are in front so you will see and use them first.
- Post a written inventory of what’s in your freezer; designate a specific area for ready-to-reheat leftovers.
- Keep a list in the notes section of your cell phone for easy reference with shopping.
- Make less by reducing the size of the recipe you're preparing
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