Planning is key
Before you go shopping, make sure you plan ahead to avoid any unnecessary purchases. Check your cupboards, fridge and freezer to see what you already have or what needs using too.
Write out your weekly meal plan and then write the shopping list and once you are at the supermarket, try your best to stick to it!
Know your dates
When you are out shopping, try and buy products with the longest food dates. There is often confusion between ‘use-by’ and ‘best before’ dates.
Use-by dates are a clear rule and are about safety. This applies mainly to fresh foods and mark the deadline after which a product is no longer safe to consume.
Best before dates are a guide to when the food is at its best. Food and drink can often be consumed after this date without any safety concerns.
Store food correctly
Food storage is key to extending the lifetime of our food. Check the food packaging for the best place to store your food or use the handy storage guide from Love Food Hate Waste.
Also make sure your fridge is set between 0-5 degrees Celsius to keep food fresher for longer. It is estimated by WRAP that 70% of Brits have their fridge temperature set too high!
Make friends with your freezer
Freezing food can greatly extend their shelf life. You can freeze a lot of foods right up to their use-by dates. Check the food packaging or the Love Food Hate Waste storage guide for more information on freezing food items.
Some commonly wasted foods you can freeze.
Love your leftovers
Getting creative with your leftovers is a great way to cut down on food waste. If you need some recipe inspiration, check out Love Food Hate Waste’s catalogue of recipes or check out our blog post on fridge clearing recipes.
Do you have tips on reducing food waste at home? Let us know on our social media pages