New Year’s Resolution to Food Waste

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.