It is vital to raise awareness among Malaysians to reduce waste, especially food. It is disheartening to see the amount of food ending up in landfills, contributing to environmental degradation. A change can be made if every individual plays a role in food waste reduction. There are many practical ways you can follow to reduce food waste. Through this, you can help to foster a sustainable and responsible approach to food consumption!
Tips To Reduce Food Waste
If every Malaysian puts their effort into implementing these simple yet impactful practices, Malaysia can soon be a country where there wouldn’t be any burden of unnecessary food waste.
Check out how to reduce food waste:
1. Create A Meal Plan
Image via Food Republic
You will only buy what you need if you plan your meal. By knowing what you’ll consume, you can minimize excess purchases and subsequently reduce food waste. A proactive approach to meal planning can empower you to make intentional choices, aligning your consumption with your actual needs.
2. Do An Inventory
Image via Shelf Cooking
You must assess your kitchen inventory regularly for items approaching expiration dates. By conducting a quick inventory check, you can prioritize perishables and plan meals around groceries and products that need to be consumed sooner. But before that, you need to understand best before and expiry dates to prevent unintentional food waste. This will promote an efficient usage of your kitchen resources.
3. Donate Leftovers
Image via HoneyKids Asia
If you have any unopened grocery items that you don’t want to use, donate them to a local charity or community organization fighting zero hunger in Malaysia. If you have leftovers from the meal you cooked, pack them and pass them to the security guards in your housing area or to the homeless. This simple act not only supports those in need but also significantly reduces the amount of food ending up in landfills.
By sharing food, you actively participate in creating a positive impact on both the environment and the well-being of others.
4. Store Appropriately
Image via Food Hygiene by Smart Horizons
Proper storage is the key to extending the freshness of your food. Store your short-lived food at optimal temperatures, and use airtight containers or zip locks to maintain freshness. By storing food items appropriately, you not only prevent premature spoilage but also make the most out of your purchases, minimizing the likelihood of having to discard items due to deterioration.
5. Buy “Ugly” Foods
Image via Vox
Choosing imperfect fruits and vegetables can reduce the demand for perfectly shaped produce, encouraging a more sustainable and inclusive approach to food consumption. You can also shop at Graze Market, a Malaysian surplus food market that sells ‘ugly’ vegetables and food products. This can encourage the people around you towards an inclusive approach to food consumption.
You can visit Graze Market’s Instagram and website for more information!
Remember that every practical tip you practice is a step in creating a sustainable Malaysia for our future generation! You can also read how to reduce e-waste in Malaysia!
