Food Waste Prevention Week will be observed from April 7-13, encouraging residents to reduce food waste. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, a study found that 854,000 tons of food waste are sent to state landfills annually. Research from Penn State University shows the average household loses $1,866 per year on discarded food.
Food waste accounts for 30% of residential trash and contributes to methane emissions in landfills, a potent greenhouse gas that accelerates climate change. Kate Strom Hiorns, director of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Waste and Materials Management Program, emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of reducing food waste, saying, “Through food waste prevention, Wisconsinites have a major opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while saving money on their grocery bills.” She encouraged residents to use Food Waste Prevention Week as a chance to assess their pantries and consider changes in their habits.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises using the sniff-and-observe method instead of relying on best by labels, except for infant formula, which is regulated by the government. Planning meals, sticking to a shopping list, and freezing leftovers are effective ways to reduce food waste. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recommends using containers for leftovers at gatherings, and tools like the Save the Food's Store It Guide and The Guest-imator help with portioning and preserving food. These practices are part of efforts to reduce food waste during Food Waste Prevention Week.
