Reduce Food Waste at Home: Practical Tips to Save Money and Help the Planet

Greener Planet Articles by Nestlé

Food waste is a pressing global issue, not only squandering valuable resources but also posing detrimental environmental and social impacts. Every year, roughly 1.3 billion tonnes of all food produced is wasted along the supply chain, from farm to fork ^[1]. This not only translates to a significant loss of valuable nutrients and financial resources but also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to global warming ^[2]. Yet, amidst this concerning reality, there's a ray of hope. By adopting simple yet effective practices in our own homes, we can significantly contribute to reducing food waste and fostering a more sustainable future. Let's delve into the reasons why minimising food waste is crucial, explore Nestlé's initiatives in this area, and discover practical steps you can implement to become a champion against food waste.

The Alarming Amount of Food Waste Generated Globally

The sheer volume of food wasted globally is staggering. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), food waste accounts for approximately 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the annual emissions of all road transport combined^[1]. This highlights the environmental cost of food waste, as its decomposition in landfills contributes significantly to climate change. Additionally, food waste represents a substantial loss of resources, including water, land, and energy used in food production, further exacerbating environmental pressures.

The social and economic impacts of food waste are equally significant. Food waste exacerbates global hunger by diverting resources that could otherwise nourish the millions of people who go hungry each day. Economically, it represents a strain on resources, leading to higher food prices and financial losses for farmers, businesses, and consumers. Addressing food waste is thus critical not only for environmental sustainability but also for social equity and economic stability.

The Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Fresh Produce

Beyond the environmental impact, food waste also signifies a missed opportunity to access essential nutrients. Fruits and vegetables, often disproportionately wasted, are powerhouses of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, crucial for maintaining good health. Studies have shown that adequate fruit and vegetable intake is linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer ^[3]. By minimizing food waste, especially of fresh produce, we can ensure better access to these essential nutrients, contributing to healthier individuals and communities.

Ways to Reduce Food Waste: Making a Difference at Home

The Ripple Effect of Food Waste

While global food waste is a complex issue requiring systemic solutions, individual actions play a crucial role in creating a significant impact. Here are several practical steps you can adopt in your own home to become a champion against food waste:

1. Create Weekly Meal Plans: Plan Ahead to Avoid Waste

Imagine owning a pantry that’s organised and well-stocked without having to break your bank for the grocery bill. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, you can make this dream a reality by taking a few minutes each week to plan your meals. Create a weekly meal plan by discussing what you’d like to eat with your family or housemates, ensuring you only buy what you truly need. Stick to this list like a compass while shopping, resisting the temptation to impulse purchases and saving yourself from excessive food.

2. Shop Smart: Make Informed Shopping Decisions

Before you toss anything in your cart, scrutinize those expiration dates. Ask yourselves whether you are able to consume the product before its expiry date. Expired food not only tastes bad but can also bring significant health risks. Remember, "best by" and "use by" dates aren't deadlines set in stone, but rather recommendations for optimal quality. Use your senses too: is the food still firm, colourful, and free of unpleasant odours? If so, it might just be perfectly fine to consume.

Speaking of freshness, embrace the bounty of seasonal produce! Not only are fruits and vegetables in season typically more affordable, but they also boast superior flavour and nutritional value. Plus, you'll be supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact associated with transporting food long distances.

3. Store Food Properly and Utilise Leftovers Creatively: Maximise Freshness and Minimise Waste

Understanding proper food storage is key to extending the lifespan of your groceries. Fruits and vegetables generally thrive in the crisper drawer, while cooked leftovers appreciate the cool embrace of airtight containers in the refrigerator. Knowing how to store different food groups is like learning a secret code – it unlocks a world of freshness and prevents premature spoilage.

But what if you do end up with leftovers? Don't despair! Instead of viewing them as a burden, channel your inner chef and transform them into delicious new creations! Leftover chicken can be reborn as a delicious stir-fry dish, roasted vegetables can be resurrected in a comforting soup, and wilting greens can find new life in a refreshing smoothie. Look up recipes on Nestlé Home of Good to make use of your leftovers or products that are approaching their expiry dates. Get creative, have fun, and watch your leftovers transform into exciting culinary adventures.

4. Compost Food Scraps: Turn Waste into Nutrients

Instead of sending your food scraps on a one-way trip to the landfill, consider composting. This magical process transforms food scraps, yard waste, and even some paper products into nutrient-rich fertilizer, also known as compost. Compost is a nutrient treasure trove for your houseplants or garden, promoting healthy growth. By composting, you're not only reducing waste but also nurturing the very source of your food – a beautiful full-circle moment!

5. Share Excess Food with Others: Foster Community While Reducing Waste

Sometimes, life throws you curveballs, and you might end up with more food than you can handle. Before these perfectly good items reach their expiration date, consider sharing the bounty with others. Offer them to friends, neighbours, or local food banks. This simple act of generosity not only reduces food waste but also fosters a sense of community and helps those in need. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved!

6. Adopt Zero-Waste Practices: Embrace Sustainable Habits

Every small step counts in the fight against food waste. Here are a few zero-waste practices you can easily integrate into your routine:

Opt for loose fruits and vegetables whenever possible, minimizing the need for plastic packaging.

Utilize reusable shopping bags and containers to ditch single-use plastic bags and wraps when grocery shopping.

Choose products with minimal packaging or opt for concentrated or bar formulations to reduce container waste.

7. Support Sustainable Food Companies: Make Eco-Friendly Choices

When making purchasing decisions, consider supporting food companies committed to reducing food waste and implementing sustainable practices throughout their operations. Look for companies that:

Invest in reducing food waste throughout their supply chain: This includes strategies like optimizing agricultural practices to minimize spoilage, improving transportation and storage logistics, and exploring innovative technologies to extend food shelf life.

Source ingredients responsibly: Opt for companies that source their ingredients from sustainable and responsible agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact and ensure fair labour conditions.

Prioritise transparency and communication: Seek information about a company's sustainability efforts and commitment to food waste reduction. Look for companies that provide clear and transparent communication about their practices, allowing consumers to make informed choices.

By supporting companies that prioritise sustainability and food waste reduction, you can contribute to a positive shift in the food industry, promoting practices that benefit both the environment and society as a whole.

Nestlé Malaysia: Championing Food Waste Reduction

Nestlé, a global leader in the food and beverage industry, recognises the importance of addressing food waste and its impact on the environment and society. They have implemented various strategies throughout their operations, demonstrating their commitment to minimising food waste from farm to fork ^[4].

1. Reducing Food Waste in Factories

Nestlé actively seeks to minimize food waste within our factories. This includes implementing innovative technologies that extend the shelf life of products, optimizing production processes to minimize spoilage, and exploring alternative uses for by-products^[4]. These efforts not only reduce wasted food but also contribute to resource efficiency and a circular economy approach.

2. Partnering with Food Banks and Charities

Recognising that some food may still reach the end of its shelf life despite their best efforts, Nestlé partners with food banks and charities to redistribute this surplus food ^[5]. This partnership ensures that perfectly good food reaches individuals and communities in need, preventing it from going to waste and contributing to food security.

For example, in Malaysia, Nestlé partnered with Yayasan Food Bank Malaysia in 2021 to donate surplus food and raise awareness about food waste reduction^[5]. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to tackling food waste while supporting local communities and promoting social responsibility.

By implementing these strategies, Nestlé demonstrates a comprehensive approach to combating food waste. From optimizing operations to fostering partnerships, their efforts contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet and its people.

A Collective Effort Towards a Sustainable Future

Combating food waste requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing individual actions, industry-wide partnerships, and government initiatives. By implementing the practical steps outlined above in your daily life, you can significantly contribute to reducing food waste within your household.

Remember, every action, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect. By adopting mindful food practices, supporting sustainable companies like Nestlé Malaysia, and advocating for change, we can collectively work towards minimizing food waste, fostering a healthier planet, and ensuring access to nutritious food for all.

By choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and responsible practices, you can contribute to a more sustainable future for generations to come. Let's all embrace our roles in creating a world where food is valued, not wasted.