Stop, Shop, and Roll

Believe it or not, that forgotten fish at the back of your fridge has far worse potential than just food poisoning. It may seem like you’re only hurting your own wallet, but in the big scheme of things, throwing away excess food doesn’t just waste money; it wastes precious commodities like water and seeds, as well as the time and energy used to transport and process it. These irreplaceable resources are used up, only to be sent to a landfill, where the food rots, producing methane gas and ultimately contributing to climate change.

Nearly one-third of all food in the world is discarded. In America alone, over 108 billion pounds of food is wasted each year, equating to approximately 130 billion meals and $408 billion thrown away. According to FeedingAmerica, in 2020, 1 in 8 Americans experience food insecurity. 38 million Americans – 12 million of which are children – lack consistent access to enough food to lead healthy lives, while 40% of produced food ends up in a landfill. Despite millions of Americans working to the bone for sustenance, 197 million pounds of perfectly good food is perishing. Food waste happens at every stage, from production to home, but simply by becoming more aware of the issue, you can be part of the solution. Take this Waste It or Taste It quiz to see some of the reasons food is trashed before it even has a chance. Something as insignificant as a crooked top on a pineapple means it will sooner see a dumpster than a pina colada, as markets want nothing to do with misfits.

Well, most markets anyway. Inclusive to all cosmetic imperfections, Misfit Market saves food from landfills by sourcing specialty groceries, sustainably raised meats, and organic fruits and vegetables from partnering farms and food hubs that would have otherwise been turned down by supermarkets. Imperfect Food shares a similar business model, touting a farm-to-fridge infrastructure that saved 116 million pounds of bin-bound food thus far. Serving 44 and 40 states respectively, these subscription boxes both ring in at prices surprisingly lower than or equivalent to major grocery stores, and ship right to your door. So regardless of your company preference, enjoy your rhubarb runts and caddywonked cabbage in peace, knowing that you are playing a part in saving the planet.

Though if for any reason, that’s not your jam and you appreciate the more traditional way of shopping, there’s plenty of simple ways to save food.

Stop Being So Yam Picky

In most cases, your phone camera will not be eating first. A less than picture-perfect potato provides the same amount of nutrition and deliciousness. What’s on the inside is what matters most, and once it’s mashed, that’s all you’ll see anyways. So, so what if your spuds aren't studs! (Accept that unconventional-looking food is small potatoes, and I will stop making produce puns.) Be open to the goods that have a look only mother nature could love (and mother nature will love you back.)

Shop More Often

Make a list and check it twice. Polluting the ozone is a surefire way to end up on the naughty list. Make a point to use up all perishables from your last trip and avoid impulse buying. It will save money and the ice caps. Supermarkets are set up to make you buy more than you need. Plan your meals and come on a full stomach to show 'em who's boss.

Roll With The Punches

Food is flexible – Can it, pickle it, dehydrate it, turn it into stock (and put a whole new meaning to Bitcoin.) Watch Chopped for inspiration. If those chefs can whip up something even halfway edible from pig’s feet and peanut butter, you can make use of that produce sitting in your fruit basket waiting to be a fly buffet. An apple is not only a grab-and-go snack you’ll get sick of the moment you’re out of an apple mood. Do not fret once they go mushy – turn them into tarts, mash them into chickpea hash or even embrace classic Americana with a good ole fashion apple pie. Keep the Doctor at bay. Unless they’re cute of course; in that case, invite them over for an appetizing cobbler cocktail. Now how do you like them apples?

Jokes aside, above all, remember that awareness and effort are of the utmost importance, and just making it to the end of this article is a step in the right direction. Try to be mindful of and grateful for the abundance of food we have, while knowing that without proper precautions, it is not guaranteed to stay that way forever, and for millions, it is already inaccessible. Small actions make a huge global impact. Whether that be for good or bad depends on the people. Be the good.