Food waste is a huge problem — both for our wallets and the planet. The good news is that cutting down on waste doesn't require a drastic lifestyle overhaul. With a few simple habits and some smart kitchen strategies, you can make the most of what you buy and significantly reduce what ends up in the bin. Here, our friends over at Zero Green, Bristol's first zero waste shop, located on North Street, outline a few simple steps you can take to get started and make a real impact!
Keep your cupboards and fridge organised
As much as possible, you want to be able to see everything in your fridge, freezer and cupboards. This prevents ingredients languishing forgotten in a corner, and saves you from spending money on ingredients you already have. Storing food in clearly labelled containers will help you know ‘at a glance’ what you have and what you don’t need to buy anymore of.
Use older ingredients get used first
Whether it’s fresh vegetables, dried or frozen goods, you don’t want to pile fresh stuff on top of older ingredients. Always stashing fresh groceries to the right of your cupboard / fridge or having an “eat me first” tub are two tips for making sure you use older ingredients first.
Carry out regular deep cleans
Food spoilage is caused by mould and bacteria, and these tiny trouble makers can linger even once you have removed the spoiled food. It is a good idea to regularly let your veg drawer run down to empty, and give it a spray with white cleaning vinegar. The acid kills any mould or bacteria that may be lingering from previous produce, and prevent them from contaminating newer ingredients that might be coming in.
Use what you already have as inspiration to meal plan
Rather than buying a completely new set of ingredients for each meal, use what you have already to inspire your mealtimes. Particularly for fresh ingredients with a shorter shelf life, keeping a list on your phone of what needs eating will help ensure that these ingredients get used up and save you from you spending money on duplicate food.
Have a go-to “fridge sweep” recipe
This will likely be a specific curry, soup or stir-fry recipe. Take some time to find a sauce or spice blend you love, then experiment using any ingredients you have to see which combinations work.
