Tips for cutting food waste

Throwing away food also means throwing away money.

The average family throws away £60 worth of food each month. Many families waste food every week because they buy too much or do not use it in time. By planning meals, storing food and using leftovers, you can save money and reduce waste.

Wasting less food is also good for the environment. It means less food goes to landfill and fewer resources go towards food that is never eaten.

Save money on food every week

Try the tips below to help your food go further and keep more money in your pocket.

Plan before you shop

• Check your fridge and cupboards first

• Take a photo of your fridge or cupboard beforehand

• Write a shopping list

• Buy only what you need

Make food last longer

• Store bread, meat, milk, fruit and cheese in the fridge

• Use an ice tube tray to freeze milk, fresh herbs in oil and egg yolks

• Freeze leftovers and food before the best before date

• Create an "eat me first" shelf or box

Save energy when cooking

• Batch cook meals

• Use slow cookers, toasters and microwave when suitable

• Choose the right-sized pan

• Boil water in the kettle

Use up leftovers

• Turn leftover vegetables into soup

• Freeze extra portions

• Take home restaurant leftovers

• Make compost out of your peelings and eggshells

Find out more

Check out WRAP’s Love Food Hate Waste website for more great tips and recipes.