Stop Food Waste, Save Our Planet
Learn how simple changes in shopping and storage can reduce food waste, save money, and protect the environment.
Understanding Food Waste Impact
Watch this informative video to learn about the global impact of food waste and discover practical solutions you can implement today.
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Produced by - Wexford County Council and Waterford City and County Council
Why Food Waste Matters
Food waste is one of the biggest challenges facing our world today. Understanding its impact is the first step toward creating positive change.
Environmental Impact
Food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water waste. When food rots in landfills, it produces methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO2.
Economic Consequences
Around one trillion US dollars worth of food is thrown away worldwide every year. For a business, every written-off product is money lost outright.
Social Responsibility
Around 828 million people were affected by hunger worldwide in 2021. Less waste means a more careful use of limited resources.
Smart Shopping Tips
Make smarter choices at the store to reduce food waste before it starts. These tips can help you save money and reduce waste.
Plan Your Meals
Create a weekly meal plan before shopping. This helps you buy only what you need and reduces impulse purchases that often go to waste.
Make a Shopping List
Always shop with a list and stick to it — less unplanned stock means less ends up in the bin.
Check What You Have
Before heading to the store, check your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Avoid buying duplicates of items you already have at home.
Buy Imperfect Produce
Choose "imperfect" fruit and vegetables where you can. They taste just as good and often cost less.
Understand Date Labels
'Best before' dates indicate quality, not safety. Many foods are perfectly safe to eat after this date. 'Use by' dates are the ones to follow strictly.
Buy in Appropriate Quantities
Resist bulk-buy deals unless you can realistically use everything before it expires. Buying less more frequently often leads to less waste.
Sources & Further Reading:
Proper Food Storage Guide
Proper storage can extend the life of your food significantly. Learn where and how to store different types of food for maximum freshness.
Pantry Storage
Cool, dry, and dark conditions
Dry Goods
Airtight containers, away from heat and moisture
Rice, pasta, flour, cereals, nuts, seeds
Canned Foods
Cool, dry place, check expiration dates regularly
Canned vegetables, fruits, soups, sauces
Root Vegetables
Cool, dark, well-ventilated area
Potatoes, onions, garlic, sweet potatoes
Oils & Vinegars
Cool, dark place, tightly sealed
Olive oil, vegetable oil, vinegars, cooking wines
Refrigerator Storage
Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below
Upper Shelves (37-40°F)
Warmest area of the fridge
Leftovers, drinks, herbs, ready-to-eat foods
Lower Shelves (33-37°F)
Coldest area, ideal for perishables
Raw meat, poultry, fish, dairy products
Crisper Drawers
High humidity for vegetables, low for fruits
Fruits (low humidity), vegetables (high humidity)
Door Compartments
Warmest area, temperature fluctuates
Condiments, dressings, butter, eggs
Freezer Storage
Keep at 0°F (-18°C) or below
Proper Packaging
Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
Label Everything
Include the date frozen and contents. Use within recommended timeframes for best quality.
Freeze in Portions
Divide large quantities into meal-sized portions for easier thawing and reduced waste.
Cool Before Freezing
Let hot foods cool to room temperature before freezing to maintain freezer temperature.
First In, First Out
Organize your freezer so older items are used before newer ones.
Storage Guidelines Sources:
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