Fight Food Waste with Leftovers
by LuTia Colbert
Every day, kitchens around the world play host to a significant contributor to both household budgets and global sustainability: leftovers. When it comes to sustainable living, leftovers may not be the first thing that you think of when brainstorming how to make a difference, but mitigating food waste is just as important as carpooling or using less water. According to the World Health Organization, WHO, approximately one-third of the world’s food is lost or wasted each year. Food waste is not only an issue of ethics, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency, but it's also a matter of urgency in addressing the global challenge of food security. Leftovers represent more than just the remnants of yesterday’s dinner; they embody a commitment to maximizing the resources that go into food production.
In a world where food waste has serious environmental consequences, either filling landfills and releasing greenhouse gasses or being incinerated and causing air pollution, every container of leftovers symbolizes a triumph. By utilizing what we have, we contribute to a sustainable ecosystem and limit unnecessary food waste. Individually, saving leftovers might seem like a small act. However, when embraced by communities and societies on a larger scale, this practice becomes a collective force for positive change. Saving and consuming leftovers contribute to reducing the demand for new ingredients, which, in turn, lessens the environmental footprint associated with agriculture and food transportation.
In addition to the environmental benefits, saving leftovers is beneficial financially. Making the most of what’s already in your kitchen cuts down on grocery bills and makes your food budget stretch even further.
Tips for Effective Leftover Management:
Plan meals with leftovers in mind: If you have the space, consider buying ingredients in bulk to prepare larger batches of meals that can be easily reheated!
Storage matters: Invest in quality storage containers to keep leftovers fresh and safe for consumption.
Be creative: Transform leftovers into new dishes for an exciting culinary adventure.
Saving leftovers is a tangible step toward supporting a food system that is not only sustainable but conscious of its impact on the planet and its people. It’s a practical strategy that aligns with broader efforts to address issues of food waste, food security, and environmental sustainability. As we make conscious choices in our daily lives, we become active contributors to a healthier, more sustainable world.
Resources:
FDA Fridge and Freezer Storage Guide
Recipes:
