Reducing Food Waste

Written By Guest User

Hello Recycle Heroes! 

Australian households waste 2.5 million tonnes of food each year, or more than four kilograms per household per week (1) - sometimes we can’t help it!

Recent studies suggest that food spoilage, over-preparing (having too many leftovers) and date label confusion are the main contributors to food waste in our homes (2). Here are some ways we can help it:

  • Meal preparation - Trying to minimise the amount of leftovers should be the goal. Planning ahead and meal prepping to the correct food portions can help make sure there is enough to go around. 

  • Visibility - Clear containers and an organised pantry can remind you what you have in stock.

  • Clear labelling - Take inventory of your items and their use by dates or write them on your shopping list in your notes app. 

  • Food storage - Scared to look at your fridge in fear of seeing wilted greens and veg? The Swag have a range of produce storing bags and food covers that are designed with eco-friendly materials to keep your food items as fresh as possible for longer. You can also store fruits, vegetables and herbs in water to stop them from dehydrating.

Image from The Swag

Reusing: 

  • Compost bins and worm farms are great, sustainable ways of getting rid of food scraps. Compost Revolution has some great tutorials on how to get started. 

  •  Don’t have space for a compost bin? Be sure to check out Sharewaste. Sharewaste is a digital map that connects users to those who regularly compost or have animals to feed. 

Recycling: 

  • Hold onto your shells! Eggshells make great mini seedling pots for gardening. They also make a great source of calcium for birds. 

  • Do you have citrus leftovers? Try making a simmer pot or handmade pot pourri. Your house will be smelling like summer in no time. 

  • Making stock cubes out of leftover meat and veggies is a super easy way to get the last out of your meals. You can freeze them in ice-cube trays for a rainy day. 

  • Lots of fruits and vegetables also have a lot of healthy natural ingredients you can integrate into your skincare routine. Avocados, yoghurt, cucumbers, bananas and coffee grounds all have remedial properties that make great facemasks or hand soaks. 

Guest User
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