Winter is a season of indulgence, with Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts prompting families across the nation to fill their fridges and freezers to the brim. But amidst the delicious excesses, there’s a less appetizing reality: food waste. A recent survey by communications agency Cherry Digital revealed that Pennsylvania households waste an average of $816 worth of food annually, amounting to one-fifth of their food each month going unused due to expired dates.
Despite this figure being below the national average of $907, it’s clear there’s room for improvement. So, how can we become more resourceful in our kitchens and reduce food waste? Here are some strategies to help you get the most out of your meals.
Smart Strategies to Make Every Bite Count!
1. Plan Your Meals: Take stock of what you already have and plan meals accordingly. This not only helps prevent overbuying but also ensures you utilize food items before they expire.
2. Learn to Love Leftovers: Don’t let the remains of last night’s dinner go to waste. Get creative with leftovers, turning them into new meals or freezing them for future use.
3. Understand Expiration Dates: ‘Sell by’, ‘use by’, and ‘best before’ dates are often misunderstood. Many foods are safe to eat beyond these dates. When in doubt, trust your senses before tossing food out.
4. Store Food Properly: Correct storage can significantly prolong the life of your food. For example, certain fruits and vegetables last longer when stored in the fridge, while others do best at room temperature.
5. Compost Your Scraps: While some waste is inevitable, composting provides a way to return these nutrients back to the earth and reduce the impact on landfills.
By implementing these strategies, not only can we cut down on food waste, but we can also save money and contribute to a more sustainable future. So next time you’re about to toss that day-old loaf of bread or half-used can of pumpkin, think again. Your wallet – and the planet – will thank you.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.
This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.