Making an effort to make greener choices can easily extend into the kitchen. Food waste not only contributes to green house gas emissions but as prices of food increases, it also impacts the family budget. We can all take simple steps to reduce, reuse and simply reevaluate some of the habits we have when it comes to buying and cooking food.
6 Tips for Reducing Waste in the Kitchen
We’ve gotten used to bringing our own bags to check out at the grocery store but reducing how much plastic we wrap produce in can also help with reducing waste. Skip the thin plastic bags in the produce aisle by investing in machine-washable mesh bags to store fresh fruits and veggies.
Switching over to reusable materials in the kitchen can also help. From food storage containers, bowl covers and lids to beeswax wrap, you can replace virtually all single-use plastic in the kitchen. Reuse takeout containers too!
Composting is become more and more present in Canadian communities. Take advantage of the programs in your area to reduce the amount of garbage you produce. If this isn’t in place where you live, you can always opt to make your own and use it for a fruitful garden in the summer months!
Beyond composting, many of the veggie scraps we discard often have more to give! Save good veggie ends, greens or peels to make a rich broth. Store them in the freezer until you have enough to make a stock. If you’re eating meat, same goes for bones!
Much of food waste comes from how we plan meals (like always forgetting to eat that spring mix you buy) and reusing leftovers. Get creative with salads or soups where you can mix leftovers with fresh produce. Having an idea of what meals you'd like to make while shopping also helps reduce waste from buying things you won't get to eat in time.
Reducing waste in the kitchen also means considering how far your food travels. Choose local and seasonal produce when its available. Seek out farmers markets near you or look for local farmer subscription boxes which can be delivered to you.
Making a Greener Cleaner
Many household cleaners can be filled with chemical ingredients which could be harmful to both you and pets. You'll be surprise to learn that you can easily replace these for solutions you probably already have in your kitchen. Vinegar and baking soda to the rescue!
Counter Top Cleaning
- 1 part vinegar
- 1 part water
- 10 drops of lemon essential oils
Cleaning your Cookware
- ½ cup baking soda
- ¼ cup vinegar
Products that Stand the Test of Time
Much like buying food, the cookware you use can have an effect on your eco-footprint. Replacing scorched or flaking cookware can be costly when you add it up over a lifetime and also means contributing to more waste. All of our cookware, including Enamelled Cast Iron, Stainless Steel and Toughened Nonstick Pro is backed by a limited-lifetime warranty which makes it a great choice is you are trying to follow the "buy it once" or "buy it for life" philosophy. Although more of an investment now, you're sure to be reaping the benefits of these products for years to come.
