Date : 17 Jan 2025
How much food do we waste? It is a big deal, and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has a webpage all about it. You can check it out www.fda.gov/food/consumers/food-loss-and-waste (Published on 01/13/2025). Let’s dive into what they say and how we can all help tackle this issue together!
The Problem is Big
According to the FDA, in the US, we are wasting nearly about 30 to 40 % food. Now just imagine all this waste going directly into garbage piles. Each and every one of us needs so much attention since we eat this much: Around 133 Billion pounds yearly. Just picture that many wholesome dinners. In real terms, food waste ends up costing an extraordinary $161 Billion. What the heck!!.
- Buying too much: Many times we just buy more than we need. Filled a grocery cart because of a sale? Yeah, done that.
- Dilemma Over Food Dates: Labels in food packages could be confusing; “Best by,” “Sell by,” or “Use by” make one throw away great food too early.
- Planning Failures: When we do not plan our meals, it’s easy to forget what is in the fridge. Then we find wilting veggies at the back.
- Consumer Choices: We are fussy about how our food looks. If it’s not perfect, we leave it behind more often than not.
Why It Matters
Wasting food isn’t only our problem. It is a community concern. In dumping food, resources such as water and energy go to waste also. Moreover, that waste increases the greenhouse gases leading to global warming. Besides these, a big number of our household families experience starvation. We will have a greener earth with less food wastes.
What Can We Do About This?
Wrapping It Up
The FDA’s information on food loss and waste is very important. Together, we can make a difference. We can make a big difference by making small changes in how we shop, store, and prepare food. Every little bit counts. Let’s be mindful of our choices and help create a world where food doesn’t go to waste and everyone has enough to eat.
So, the next time you go to the grocery store or cook at home, think about how you can reduce waste. We all have the power to make a difference! Happy cooking!