There is good news though. We can reverse this trend! Earth Day on April 22 is the perfect time to commit to making a change.
You might be surprised at how easy it is to reduce your environmental food print.
#901SaveTheFood is an online initiative from Clean Memphis teaching Memphians how to reduce their food waste, and make a positive impact on the environment.
Here are 5 small changes you can make to have a huge impact.
Shop Smarter
Take a moment to plan your meals, before heading to the store. Think about what you have on hand when deciding what to cook. Once you have a meal plan, make a list and stick to it - buying only what you need.
Store Food Properly
Be sure to store food in ways that help it stay fresher longer.
Put items that you know need to be used quickly front and center in your fridge.
Get Creative
Memphis cookbook authors Justin Fox Burks and Amy Lawrence (who are both contributors to #901SaveTheFood) remind us that “almost anything can be made into a hummus, stir-fry, curry or pickle.”
Compost
The main objective is reduce your food waste, but the reality is there will be some waste. The key is to dispose of it properly. Composting is the best way to dispose of excess food.
There are many compost guides available online, or if you don’t have space or want to get your hands dirty, you can use a commercial service like Atlas Organics.
Ask for The Changes You Want to See
Consider organizing a neighborhood compost drop site or having your workplace donate leftovers to a food pantry. When eating out, bring leftovers home.
This is Jennifer Chandler with The Weekly Dish. Bon Appetit!
For more information, visit cleanmemphis.org and memphistransformed.com. Follow @901SaveTheFood on Instagram for helpful tips.
