Get smart about food waste at home

Do you know how much food your family is throwing away? Families who measure their food waste are often surprised.

To learn how much food your household wastes, measure all of the food you discard over one to two weeks. Try using a large measuring cup or a small bucket that you know the volume of -- is it 1/4 full, half full or more?

Add up your waste after meals and make a chart. Have the whole family help. Post it where everybody can see. You may be surprised by how much good food can be saved.

Take action by educating your family and by following the simple steps listed below.

• Smart storage -- keep fruits and vegetables fresh

Help your food stay fresher, taste better and last longer by storing it in the right place. See side bar.

• Smart shopping -- buy what you need

Make a list with meals in mind and buy no more than what you expect to use. You will be more likely to use it up and keep it fresh.

• Smart prep -- prepare ingredients now and eat later

Make it easier to prepare meals later in the week and save time, effort and money.

• Smart saving -- eat what you buy

Use up leftovers and the ingredients you have before buying more. You'll waste less, save more and may even find a new favorite dish.

Learn more

For more detail about the steps to prevent food waste, visit www.WashingtonCountyRecycles.org.