Food Waste Reduction Tips
Quick Tips for Reducing Food Waste
At Home
- Check fridges and cupboards before grocery shopping
- Research recipes that use leftovers
- Donate unneeded items to your local Food Bank
Grocery Shopping
- Make a list before you go
- Shop with a meal plan in mind
- Buy the funny-looking produce — often no one else does and they go to waste
Try the “Eat First” Challenge
- Separate your new grocery items from existing food with baskets or containers
- Organize the fridge with oldest food in the front and newest in the back (grocery stores do this!)
- Encourage your household to use up older items before reaching for the new
Busting the “Best Before Date” Dilemma
The “best before” date does not guarantee product safety, but gives information about the freshness and potential shelf-life of the unopened food you are buying. This must appear on pre-packaged foods that will keep fresh for 90 days or less. Retail-packaged foods may be labelled with either a “best before” date and storage instructions, or the date packaged, along with a “best before” date and storage instructions.
Learn More: Health Canada> How to read food date labels and packaging
Additional Resources:
Government of Canada > General Food Safety Tips
Party Plan for Waste Success
Why not practice your waste reduction skills around the grill and beyond, the next time you have a party, potluck or family gathering?
The Prep
Know your numbers: This way you will prepare the right amount of food
Check the fridge first: Before heading to the grocery store, see what you have on hand to build your menu
Make a grocery list: Know what you need and stick to that list. Pick items that can be made into other dishes too
Hosting a Potluck? Advise your guests on what and how much to bring. Share your plans to reduce food waste and lots of leftovers
The Party
Be real – plates, forks, knives, cups! Go with compostable paper plates and napkins and recyclable cups
Set-up for sorting: Use paper bags for compost and a tote for dishes. Check out our printable sorting signs!
Guests from out of province? While composting and recycling has been a way of life in Nova Scotia for 20+ years, some guests may be new to our ways.
The Pack-Up
Containers at the ready! Cool leftovers quickly and store well to get the most out of your leftovers.
Share the love: Bundle up leftovers and send them home with guests or give to neighbours.
