Food waste in the U.S. is a major issue, with discarded food making up a significant portion of municipal landfills. It’s estimated that about 30%-40% of the country’s food supply ends up wasted. Fortunately, there are practical steps we can take to minimize this waste.
At Bright Side, we’re committed to environmental sustainability and have compiled some effective storage tips to help you reduce food waste at home. For an added bonus, check out a zero-waste recipe at the end.
1. Create a “Best-By” Box
Instead of frequently transferring items to an “eat me first” box, try setting up 2 or 3 boxes with replaceable or dry-erase labels. Write down specific timeframes like “last week of May” and store items according to their best-by or use-by dates. This helps you keep track of deadlines more clearly than a vague “soon” label.
2. Optimize Your Fridge
Understand your fridge’s layout and humidity levels. Generally, high humidity drawers are best for veggies that can wilt (like leafy greens and carrots), while low humidity drawers are suited for produce that can rot (such as peppers and mushrooms). Place fruits and ripening produce accordingly and avoid storing them together if they affect each other’s freshness.
3. Designate a Space for Leftovers
To avoid forgetting about leftovers, keep them in a designated container or shelf that’s visible. Opt for transparent containers so you can easily see what’s inside.
4. Maintain a Running Inventory
A common reason for food waste is overbuying due to not knowing what’s already in your fridge or pantry. Create an inventory list and place it in a visible spot, like on your fridge door. Track frequently used items and new groceries to avoid buying unnecessary items and reduce spoilage.
5. Freeze Bread
Bread can go stale quickly, but freezing is a great way to preserve it. Slice bread before freezing and store it in portions. You can toast individual slices or repurpose stale bread into croutons, French toast, or breadcrumbs.
6. Use Clear Containers
Clear containers help you keep track of your food. When you empty a jar, clean it, remove the label, and use it to replace an older container. This way, you get a transparent container for easier viewing and replace worn-out containers with more eco-friendly glass options.
7. Be Specific with Labels
Enhance your food organization by adding detailed information to your labels. Include the date of preparation, best-by dates, and any allergen warnings to keep track of your food’s freshness and avoid cross-contamination.
8. Use Ziploc Bags for Versatile Storage
Ziploc bags are not just for veggies. They work well for freezing minced meat, salad mixes, fresh herbs, and sauces. For easy access, divide the contents into sections before freezing. This allows you to break off only what you need without thawing the entire bag.
9. Portion Out Leftovers
To manage leftovers and bulk foods more effectively, portion them before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need and helps you plan meals and shopping more efficiently.
10. Reevaluate Your Storage Space
It might seem counterintuitive, but reducing excess storage space can help manage food waste. A smaller fridge or pantry can prevent overbuying and keep your food inventory manageable. This approach minimizes the risk of food being forgotten and wasted.
By implementing these strategies, you can make a significant impact in reducing food waste and contributing to a more sustainable environment.