Guidelines To Avoid Food Waste
There are many reasons behind food waste, but simply buying more than we use is a big one. The good news? Careful grocery shopping saves money right away. A few quick habit changes will help food last longer.
The grocery store is where you commit — to spending both money and the resources it took to grow the food — even if it doesn’t get eaten.
If you keep a budget, you may notice that food is one of your biggest expenses. Whether you are a family of one or a family of twelve, rising food prices affects your finances.
Here are a few ideas to help you avoid food waste:
MAKE A LIST
Research has shown that shoppers who use and stick to written lists—only about 25% of us—have lower grocery bills and make fewer shopping trips. They’re also less susceptible to impulse buys.
SKIP THE CART
Bigger dinner plates encourage us to eat more, and bigger carts call us to fill them. Hand baskets can help improve your grocery store discipline.
SCRUTINIZE DEALS
Five bananas for a R10 is a good deal only if you eat all five. Also, many stores offer the sale price even if you buy less than the stated quantity. If you’re unsure, ask.
SHOP THE BULK BINS
Many stores offer grains, nuts, spices, and other dry goods in bulk bins that allow you to purchase only the quantity you need. This is very helpful if you just need ingredients for a specific recipe.
USE A PORTION PLANNER
When you’re not sure how much you’ll need for your dinner party, use your smart phone to consult an online portion planner.
KEEP IT COLD
Buy perishable and frozen foods last so they spend less time at room temperature. And be sure to shake the water from produce—water encourages rotting and adds weight. If you won’t be home for a while, keep a cooler in your car.
BE OKAY WITH IMPERFECTIONS
Scarred and oddly shaped fruits and vegetables are perfectly normal. If we don’t buy them, the store will toss them in the trash.
BUY THE LAST ONE
People often avoid buying the last item on the shelf. Be a grocery store contrarian. Buying these loners discourages stores from overstocking just to create the appearance of abundance.
By SaveTheFood.com.
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