Wasting food is a big problem. The Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN estimated that we waste more than one billion tons of food worldwide every year. There are millions of people around the world who are suffering from hunger and food, and it’s a crime that we waste wholesome food. Also, food waste is bad for the environment. If the food were a country, it would be on the top three of the biggest emitters of carbon dioxide. But we all can contribute to decreasing food waste. There are some tips that we can follow to reduce out waste. But as we are growers we are in a position and have more control over how food gets from a seed to a plate. If we were to choose to grow our own produce, we would be helping the environment and would be contributing to the fight against food waste.
How can we contribute?
We can grow our own fruits and vegetables at home. We would be reducing the impact of our meals. As one of the most damaging components of food waste is carbon. The waste from the process that starts in the food we see at the grocery stores includes the production stage, packaging, and the delivery. There is also a massive waste of water that is wasted in commercial food production. By growing foods in your home, you can ensure you grow only was is needed. There is more than 30 percent of fruits in North America does not make to the grocery stores as it does not meet the aesthetic criteria. But good kitchen gardeners know that even the ugliest of fruits taste good. Did you know that certain vegetables can be re-grown from scraps? Which means that many home growers will be using the leftovers of their produce to grow their next batch. This would cut back a large amount of food waste. There are many governments in different countries around the world who are acting to reduce the amount of food that ends up on a landfill, but there is yet for more households that need to contribute to food waste.
How else can we contribute?
If you end up growing more produce than you need, you can give it to other family members, friends, or neighbours. There few people that will say no to great organic homegrown fruits and vegetables. You might even inspire them to begin growing their own. You could also get in touch with your local food bank or community charities to see how you can contribute. Though you should always keep a close eye on the product, you are growing. If you are occasionally having more than you need, you should grow less. Or you could even start growing something else. You could also freeze some of these fruits or vegetables. You could the frozen produce for smoothies or soups. Overall growing your own produce, it much healthier. Homegrown fruits and vegetables also tend to be tastier, fresher, and better for the environment. Not only that you would make a significant contribution to food waste.
Tips for food waste
- Plan and make a weekday menu for the upcoming week
- Make a shopping list and only buy what you know you will be using and nothing else
- Use what you have. Get creative. Most of the time you can make great dishes with what you already have at home.
Lastly, if you consider that 50 percent of South America doesn’t have enough food, it’s time we pay attention to what we buy and how much food goes to waste.
