It’s the holiday season, a time filled with celebrations and plenty of food. But all that festive cooking often leads to leftovers and food waste.
Surprisingly, nearly 32% of the food purchased by the average U.S. household ends up in the trash. This waste translates to about $2,913 a year for a family of four. That’s about $56 each week!
Reducing food waste isn’t just about saving money. It helps lower methane emissions from landfills and sets a good example for others. Yu Meng, a UC Cooperative Extension advisor, emphasizes that nearly half of all food waste happens at home.
“Food waste occurs everywhere along the food chain,” Meng states. By being mindful of our consumption, we save money and all the resources tied to food production—like land, water, and labor.
To cut down on waste, start with meal planning. Create a shopping list to help buy only what you need. “Stick to the list,” Meng advises. “Shopping when you’re hungry often leads to buying more, especially unhealthy options.”
Research shows that people tend to prepare extra food, particularly when hosting. “Planning meals helps cook the right amount for your guests,” Meng explains. If you find yourself with leftovers, think about storing, freezing, or repurposing them.
Sharing food with neighbors is a great option, too. Just be sure to check that any food you’re sharing is safe for pets, as some ingredients can be harmful.
For packaged items you won’t use, consider donating them to local food banks. For food scraps that can’t be consumed, composting is a better choice than tossing them in the trash.
The UC Master Food Preserver Program can help you learn safe food preservation methods like canning and freezing. You can find more resources here.
As we enjoy the holiday festivities, let’s be mindful about reducing food waste. Small changes in our habits can add up to big savings and benefits for our planet.
