As the calendar turns to 2025, many of us are thinking about resolutions that will make our lives and communities better. This year, consider a goal that benefits your household and addresses a pressing global issue – food waste.
Household food waste accounts for 40 to 50 percent of all food wasted in the United States, adding up to approximately 26.5 million tons of food wasted annually.
This strains our resources, contributes to food insecurity, and leads to environmental damage. By adopting even just one of the following simple habits to reduce waste, you can save money, help feed more people, and play a part in creating a healthier planet.
1. Plan smarter meals
One of the easiest ways to cut down on surplus food is to plan your meals in advance. Before heading to the grocery store, take stock of what you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Then, create a meal plan for the week that incorporates those ingredients. By shopping with a list based on your plan, you’ll be less likely to overbuy or forget about items that end up spoiling.
You can also build in a “leftover night” where you transform extra portions from earlier meals into something new. That roast chicken can become a hearty soup, or those roasted veggies can be tossed into a grain bowl.
2. Master portion control
Cooking or serving too much food is a common culprit of waste. While it’s tempting to make extra just in case, consider adjusting portion sizes to match your household’s needs. You can always freeze or save leftovers for another day, but scaling recipes appropriately can help prevent excess from the start.
When hosting gatherings, try using smaller serving dishes to encourage guests to take only what they can eat. If there are leftovers, send guests home with them in reusable containers.
3. Learn the art of food storage
Proper storage is key to keeping food fresh for longer. Simple steps, like storing fresh herbs in a jar of water in the fridge or keeping apples and bananas separate to slow ripening, can make a big difference. Invest in airtight containers or reusable produce bags to extend the life of your groceries.
If you find that certain foods frequently go bad before you use them, freeze them instead. Many items, including bread, berries, and even fresh herbs (chopped and frozen in oil or water), freeze well and can be used later.
4. Get creative with scraps and leftovers
Instead of tossing food scraps, think about how they can be repurposed. Vegetable peels and ends can be boiled into a flavorful stock, while citrus peels can be zested for baking or infused into drinks. Stale bread makes excellent croutons or breadcrumbs, and overripe bananas are perfect for smoothies or baking.
Challenge yourself to make at least one “scrap-inspired” meal each week. It’s a fun way to stretch your creativity in the kitchen while minimizing waste.
5. Start composting
Even with the best intentions, some food waste is inevitable. Composting is an excellent way to keep those scraps out of landfills, where they produce harmful methane emissions. Composting turns organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, which can be used in your garden or shared with local community gardens.
If you’re new to composting, start small with a countertop bin or check out community composting programs, such as The Compost Fairy, in your area.
6. Donate surplus food
If you find yourself with extra food that’s still good but won’t be eaten, consider donating it to local food rescue organizations or shelters. Project Green Fork can help connect you with local nonprofits that accept food donations.
Contact our team at info@cleanmemphis.org to learn how you can set up a food donation plan or use platforms like Careit to find nearby donation opportunities.
As you embrace these resolutions in 2025, remember that every small step counts. Whether you’re meal planning, composting, or donating leftovers, your actions can inspire others and create a ripple effect of positive change. Here’s to a year of sustainability, savings, and delicious meals – without the waste!
