Friday Quickie: Avoid Losing 40% (or $1300) in Wasted Food

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