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5 Ways to Reduce Food Waste and Save Money

Food waste is a serious problem that affects the environment, the economy and our wallets. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans throw away about 30% of the food they buy, which amounts to $161 billion worth of food each year. That’s enough to feed 50 million people!

But don’t despair, there are some simple and effective ways to reduce food waste and save money at the same time. Here are five tips to help you get started:

1. Plan your meals and shop smart. Before you go to the grocery store, make a list of what you need and stick to it. Avoid impulse buying and buying more than you can eat. Check your pantry and fridge for what you already have and use it up before it goes bad.

2. Store your food properly. Learn how to store different types of food to keep them fresh longer. For example, keep fruits and vegetables in separate drawers in the fridge, as some fruits release ethylene gas that can spoil other produce. Wrap cheese in wax paper or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap to prevent mold. Freeze bread, meat and leftovers that you won’t use within a few days.

3. Use your leftovers creatively. Don’t let your leftovers go to waste in the back of the fridge. Instead, turn them into new dishes or snacks. For example, you can make fried rice, soup, salad, sandwiches, wraps, quesadillas or pizza with leftover rice, meat, veggies and cheese. You can also blend leftover fruit into smoothies or bake them into muffins or pies.

4. Compost your scraps. Some food waste is inevitable, such as peels, cores, pits and bones. But instead of throwing them in the trash, you can compost them and turn them into rich fertilizer for your plants. You can use a compost bin or pile in your backyard or a worm bin or bokashi bucket in your apartment.

5. Donate what you can’t use. If you have food that is still edible but you don’t want to eat it or store it, consider donating it to a local food bank or shelter. You can also use apps like Olio or Food Rescue US to connect with people who are willing to take your surplus food.

By following these tips, you can reduce food waste and save money while helping the planet and the people in need. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!