26/09/2025
Professional Nutrition Advice to Prevent Food Wastage
Food wastage not only strains household budgets but also contributes to global hunger and environmental challenges. As a nutritionist, I recommend the following strategies to minimize waste while ensuring healthy eating:
Plan Balanced Meals – Create a weekly menu that aligns with your household’s nutritional needs. This helps you buy only what is necessary.
Shop Smart – Prepare a shopping list and stick to it. Avoid impulse buying and purchase perishable foods in smaller quantities that can be consumed within a few days.
Practice Proper Storage – Store foods correctly to extend shelf life. For example, refrigerate dairy products promptly, keep cereals in airtight containers, and rotate foods using the first in, first out rule.
Use Portion Control – Serve moderate portions to reduce leftovers. Encourage family members to take second helpings only if needed.
Repurpose Leftovers – Turn surplus foods into new meals, such as using vegetables for soups, smoothies, or stir-fries.
Understand Food Labels – Differentiate between “use by” (safety) and “best before” (quality). Many foods remain safe and nutritious beyond the “best before” date if stored properly.
Donate Excess Food – If you have surplus non-perishables, consider donating to food banks or community organizations.
By adopting these practices, households can prevent food wastage, save money, and promote better nutrition, while contributing to a more sustainable food system.
