Over one third of all food produced globally goes to waste.
The UK throws away around 9.5 million tonnes of food waste in a single year – even though 8.4 million people in the UK are in food poverty.
Billions of pounds are lost due to unnecessary food disposal.
Here are 4 food sustainability resolutions for 2024:
1- Minimise Food Waste at Home: It’s estimated that around 60% of food waste comes from the home within the UK. Counteract this by storing food correctly to extend its shelf life. Simple practices like storing fresh herbs stem-side down in water and keeping apples separate from other fruits can extend shelf life. Pre-plan meals to avoid unnecessary grocery purchases, whether for personal use or business, by tracking consumer habits.
2-Embrace Reusables On the Go: With the UK’s recycling rate below 50%, reducing fast food packaging and single-use plastics is challenging. Carry reusable bottles, insulated coffee mugs, and portable utensils and containers in your bag, car, or office for sustainable on-the-go choices.
3- Value Your Leftovers: Reduce waste creatively by requesting a box for leftovers when dining out or bringing your own container. Transforming leftovers into new dishes is an effective way to minimize waste.
4- Plan and Stick to Your Grocery List: Supermarkets encourage impulse purchases, leading to excess food waste. To curb overbuying create a meal plan and stick to a grocery list.
You can find more useful facts about UK industrial and domestic food waste on WRAP’s website.
Support City Harvest in 2024
Donating money, food and volunteering your time at City Harvest all EQUAL a massive impact on London’s community facing food poverty, and the planet. Get Involved in 2024