Every year too much food end up in the trash worldwide. But the problem doesn’t start in your kitchen. It affects the entire supply chain: from overproduction and supermarket waste to strict visual standards for food.
How to Reduce Food Waste – Simple Tips
Global change is needed, but you can take action in your daily life. France is leading the way: supermarkets are legally required to donate surplus food instead of throwing it away. Here’s how you can make a difference, too:
1. Shop Local
Buy from farmers' markets or local farms. They usually produce in smaller quantities and use resources more efficiently than industrial farms. A seasonal produce box is another great way to support regional growers.
2. Meal Prep
Plan your meals ahead! Cook larger portions at the start of the week, freeze leftovers, or store food properly. This reduces waste and saves time.
3. Make Fridge Checks a Habit
Regularly check what’s in your fridge to use food before it expires. A simple trick: create a “Use First” basket for products that need to be eaten soon.
4. Save "Imperfect" Fruits & Veggies
Oddly shaped carrots or slightly bruised apples? Still perfectly edible! Many supermarkets now offer “imperfect” produce at lower prices. Some delivery services even specialize in saving surplus food.
5. Store Food Correctly
Top shelf: Cooked food, cheese, opened items
Middle shelf: Dairy products
Bottom shelf (coldest zone): Meat, fish, sensitive veggies
Do NOT refrigerate: Tomatoes, potatoes, onions & apples (they release gases that spoil other foods faster).
6. Use Too Good To Go
Every day, restaurants, bakeries, and supermarkets throw away tons of perfectly good food. With the Too Good To Go app, you can save surplus meals at a discounted price. Great food, less waste, and a win for your wallet!
7. Use a Kitchen Composter – Meet soilkind!
Sometimes, food waste is unavoidable—but you can still put it to good use. With soilkind, your food scraps turn into fresh compost in just 48 hours.
Every Small Step Counts
By shopping smarter, storing food correctly, and getting creative with leftovers, you can actively reduce food waste.
