Reduce food waste: How to start

Reduce food waste: How to start

food waste: How to start

Food waste is a big problem that has to be viewed worldwide. It is estimated that about a third of all the food produced lands on the trash. This is not only an enormous waste of resources such as water, energy and land, but also contributes to climate change and has negative social effects. Fortunately, there are measures that each individual can take to reduce food waste. In this article we will present various approaches and tips on how to start reducing food waste.

The importance of food waste

Food waste has many negative effects on the economy, the environment and society. Here are some reasons why food waste is an urgent problem:

1. Sewage to resources

The production of food requires large amounts of water, energy and land. If food is wasted, all of these resources are also wasted. This leads to an unnecessary burden on the environment and contributes to problems such as lack of water, deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Climate change

Food waste contributes to climate change. When food ends up on the trash, they decompose and produce methangas, a particularly strong greenhouse gas. Methan is responsible for around 16 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing food waste, we can help combat climate change.

3. Hunger and poverty

While food is wasted in the industrialized countries, many people suffer from hunger and poverty in other parts of the world. By reducing food waste, we can contribute to improving food safety and combating hunger and poverty.

tips for reducing food waste

There are many ways to all contribute to reducing food waste. Here are some simple tips on how to start:

1. Conscious shopping

One of the simplest measures that can be taken is conscious shopping. Plan in advance what you need for your meals and create a shopping list. Only buy what you actually need and avoid impulse purchases. If you consciously shop, reduce the likelihood that food will spoil before you can use them.

2. Proper storage of food

Another important aspect is the correct storage of food. Some food must be kept in the fridge, while others can be stored at room temperature. Read the instructions on the packaging and make sure you store the food correctly to maximize your durability.

3. Use remnants

If you have left -wing food, don't just let them spoil in the fridge. Use the remains by using creative recipes or using them in new dishes. Remains can be processed into delicious soups, casseroles or salads. By using remnants, you not only reduce food waste, but also save money.

4. Note the correct portion size

We often throw food away because we cooked or served too much. When cooking and serving meals, pay attention to the right portion size. Adjust your quantities accordingly to avoid waste. If you have cooked too much, freeze the remaining meals or pass them on to the needy.

5. Interpret the decay data correctly

Delivery data are often a confusing aspect when shopping for food. Many foods can still be consumed safely after the expiry date. Learn to distinguish between "expiry date" and "best before date". The expiry date means that the food is no longer safe to eat after this date, while the best -before date indicates the date to which the product keeps its best quality, but is still safe to eat afterwards.

6. Donate and share

If you have foods that you can no longer use, think about donating them or sharing them with other people. Many municipalities have organizations or programs that pass on excess foods to non -profit organizations or people in need. By sharing foods you can help others and at the same time reduce food waste.

FAZIT

Food waste is a serious problem that has global effects. However, there are steps that each individual company can do to reduce food waste. By consciously shopping, storing food correctly, using the remnants, considering the correct portion size, interpreting and sharing decay data correctly, we can help to reduce food waste. Every contribution counts, and together we can help create a more sustainable and fairer world.

sources:
- Food and agriculture organization of the united nations. (2019). Key Facts on Food Loss and Waste You Should Know! https: //www.food.une: domain.org/en/newsroom/key-facts/
- United Nations Environment Programs. (2020). Food waste. https://www.unenvironment.org/explore-topics/resource-efficiency/what-we-do/Preventing-food-WASTE