Did you know the average family in theU.S.tosses about $600 worth of groceries each year? $600! We’re tossing food that’s past the expiration date or smells bad or whatever.

In this economy, no one can afford to throw money or food in the trash can. Plus, we want to set examples of good stewardship for our children. It’s good for kids to see their parents and grandparents planning well and using God’s provisions wisely.

Here are a few tips to help cut down on food waste. Feel free to share your own suggestions in the comments.

• When you’re shopping, check the expiration dates on perishables like meat and dairy to make sure you can use them before they expire.
• Plan your meals. If you buy beef cubes to make stew, don’t throw them in the bottom of the fridge and forget about them until days later. (I’ve done that, have you?) Instead, make a list of what you’ll make for dinner each night and rotate meats from the freezer to the fridge only a day or two ahead.
• If you use lunch meats, buy only enough for the next few days. Three days in the fridge is long enough for sliced meats, which can harbor bacteria. Going to the deli twice a week is a pain, but worth it if it keeps your family from getting sick.

Keeping your fridge organized and checking dates on condiments helps, too. Check out this article Fridge Fix for more information.

Blessings,
Beth Bence Reinke, MS, RD