40% of the food in the US is never eaten and thrown away, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council in a report released this week. This breaks down to 20+ lbs per person per month, 25% of the groceries purchased & wasting an estimated $1300-$2300 for a family of 4 annually.

How can you waste less food?

• Repackage & freeze food as soon as you make it – for a quick meal at a later date.
• Store meal leftovers immediately after eating and have a quick lunch ready for the next day!
• Preserve fresh fruits & veggies you won’t get to eating in time (especially if you’re in a CSA.)
• Use the food in your pantry first! (I’m moving soon and having an ‘eating’ challenge, making creative meals out of fresh CSA produce & stuff that’s sitting on my pantry. Try this year-round!)
• In a creative slump? Recipe apps (like Whole Foods) ask what ingredients you already have.

Photo: Civil Eats

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher