Reducing food waste is important to our community and future generations, and can prevent pollution caused by the manufacturing and transportation of food.

How can you reduce food waste?

1. Properly store food. Be sure your refrigerator is working optimally, set it to the appropriate temperature and use the produce drawers to control the humidity.
2. Be creative with leftovers instead of letting them spoil. Leftover grilled chicken from dinner can be chopped up and used to make a chicken salad sandwich for lunch! Store leftovers in clear containers -- you are more likely to eat what you can see. Or, if you won't be able to finish leftovers, freeze them in airtight containers.
3. Plan. Before grocery shopping, take an inventory of what’s already in your pantry and refrigerator, and be sure to shop with a grocery list! Do your best to prepare your meals ahead of time – it will help make your weekday lunches and evenings more relaxing.
4. Buy only what you need. This allows the untouched food in grocery stores to be donated to community members in need. Our local Second Harvesters Food Bank accept food donations, large or small. They will also come to you to pick unused or unable to reach fruit from fruit trees.

Help your food go further and reduce your carbon footprint!