Wasted food is costing Whatcom County residents money. Every year the average U.S. household loses about $1500 by throwing away uneaten food. Almost 35% of food produced nationally each year goes uneaten, which wastes resources and money, and causes significant environmental damage. American households waste enough food annually to fill one million dump trucks (NRDC).
April 1-7, 2024, is Food Waste Prevention Week, and Whatcom County residents can take steps to reduce the amount of food wasted locally. Whatcom County Health and Community Services, Sustainable Connections, RE Sources, and WSU Extension are all participating in Food Waste Prevention Week activities. The community can join local organizations for an engaging and informative event at ‘Ono Kitchen and Bar on April 1 at 6:30 pm for the Food Waste Prevention Trivia Night. Test your knowledge of food waste prevention while enjoying great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Bring your friends and family to compete for prizes and learn practical tips to minimize your food waste.
Although waste occurs at each step of the food production chain, most food waste occurs in households. Consumers can take the following steps to reduce food waste and save money:
- Shop wisely: Plan meals, shop with a list, and avoid impulse buys.
- Properly store foods: Keep older food toward the front of the refrigerator so it will be used first, and freeze items before they spoil.
- Understand date labels: Learn the difference between “use by” and “best by” dates on food. Many food items are fine to eat past their “best by” date.
- Donate edible food: Check with your nearby food bank and the health department for guidelines around donating food.
- Manage your food waste at home: Learn to compost your food waste, or, if available in your area, sign up for curbside compost collection through your local waste service.
Washington state is working to reduce food waste by 50% by the year 2030, preserving water, labor, energy, and land that is used to make and transport food. Whatcom County households can help reach this goal by taking simple steps to reduce food waste locally and save money along the way.
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