Did you know ? In France, nearly 20% of food ends up in the trash (Source: Ministry of Agriculture)
Check expiration dates frequently
Have you ever thrown away a packaged food because its expiry date has passed? To avoid this scenario, regularly check the expiry dates of your products. This will make it easier for you to prioritize foods.
Be aware that there is a difference between the use-by date and the minimum durability date. Indeed, fresh products with the mention “to be consumed until” are no longer consumable after the said date, while dry products with the mention “to be consumed preferably before” can still be consumed without danger to health, provided all the same that their packaging is not altered.
Take stock inventory
In addition to checking expiration dates, take inventory of all the food you have in the fridge, freezer and in your cupboards. Because in addition to giving you new recipes, you will know what you have in store and will not buy certain products twice.
Store your fridge strategically
As in the supermarket, highlight in your fridge the products whose use-by date is approaching.
Buy “oversize” fruits and vegetables
Some foods are thrown away before even being put on the shelves. This is particularly the case for “oversize” fruits and vegetables, deemed too large, small or unsightly. Often cheaper and just as good, don’t hesitate to buy some, especially to limit unsold items in (super)markets.
Limit your purchases by buying in moderation
It can be tempting to buy in bulk when discounted lots are offered. Moreover, depending on the size of your household, it may not be wise to give in to temptation, unless you are sure to consume all of it.
Draw up a shopping list according to the planned menus
To be sure to use all the food you buy, it is advisable to plan your menus in advance. Indeed, by planning your meals, you limit expenses and waste because you only buy what you need to make your delicious recipes. Better yet, you can use the leftovers for other dishes!
Store your food well
Haven’t finished your plate? Do not panic ! You can use small boxes to store these foods. So you can bring it for your lunch the next day or reuse the leftovers for other recipes.
At the restaurant, ask for “doggy bags”
Haven’t finished your dish at the restaurant? You can ask to take home anything you haven’t eaten.
Cook the right amount of ingredients
When we cook, we sometimes have a little heavy hand on certain ingredients. Yet, by following recipes, package recommendations or using a scale, we can eat just enough. And thus avoid leftovers and possibly food waste.
Make a food donation
Do you have unexpired products that you are not going to use? Donate them to a food aid association. This will help many households in need.
Innovate in your recipes!
Not sure what to do with your leftovers? Know that there are a large number of anti-waste recipes. For example, you can make delicious compotes with overripe fruit, French toast with a baguette or dry brioche, or a soup with carrot tops.
Find other anti-waste recipes on the ADEME website.
LR