How food waste costs your wallet -- and the planet
What's in your refrigerator right now? Anything that's teetering on the edge of expiration?
Posted — UpdatedAnything that’s teetering on the edge of expiration?
5 On Your Side’s Monica Laliberte tells us why it’s a bigger problem than many realize.
And here’s another eye-opening statistic: Consumer Reports says cutting back on food waste could save a family of four about $1,500 a year!
“If you’re throwing out a lot, you might be buying too much food," said Amy Keating, a nutritionist with Consumer Reports.
Strategies for helping prevent food waste
Start with a shopping list. It can help you focus on buying what you’ll really use.
1. Carefully consider the 'order' in which you eat your groceries
Hardier produce, including carrots and brussels sprouts, lasts longer than frail fruits and vegetables, such as leafy greens and berries.
And if your fruit is starting to get super ripe, avoid wasting them by adding them to smoothies or baked goods.
2. Consider buying frozen produce
Consider buying frozen produce.
CR says it’s just as nutritious as fresh, and then you can take out only what you need.
Freezing leftovers only makes sense if you eventually eat them.
Dating them can be a reminder to help you use it.
3. Use clear containers
Keep dry goods in clear, airtight packaging to make them less susceptible to dampness and mold.
Plus, if you see it you’re more likely to eat it.
4. Stuck with waste anyway? Compost it!
5. Don't store perishable foods in the fridge door
One last reminder, to keep milk and eggs fresher, longer don’t store them in the refrigerator door.
CRs tests show the temperature is generally a few degrees warmer than the rest of the shelves.
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