Recyclable and reusable packaging
It is possible to have zero waste in the kitchen! Between packaging, waste, plastic bottles and single-use accessories, there is plenty to think about... You have new options at your disposal. Buying in bulk as well as using healthy and eco-friendly accessories like paper towels...etc. here are some green tips and tricks to limit waste in your kitchen.
Cooking at home for less waste
Let's put it this way: when you're in a hurry, convenience foods are a lifesaver. But they're not good for your health or the environment. Cooking basic recipes at home can help you reduce the amount of plastic packaging you use, save money and eat healthier.
Short on time? With a batch approach to cooking, you can create a weekly meal plan and cook it with your family on Sunday afternoon. You'll have a fantastic time, and you'll be even happier knowing that the only thing you have to do the rest of the week is heat up your home-cooked meals!
Reduce your packaging waste
This is one of the most important basics of zero waste. However, there is still a lot to do. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste are generated. Packaging accounts for 60% of this total. So it's time to switch to a zero waste kitchen. And the trend is really in favor of it, isn't that encouraging? Here are some tips:
Locate a bulk food store or grocery store (buy local or seasonal produce).
- Stop using single-use dishes and accessories (cellophane, paper towels...).
- Practice waste-free dishwashing.
- Sort waste into recyclables and compostables.
- Eliminate the use of single-use utensils.
- Plastic bottles and plastic in particular should be banned. There are other options. Consider the good old glass water bottle.
Tips for reducing food waste
In no particular order, here are some suggestions for reducing food waste. In France, each person throws away an additional 20 kilograms of edible food each year, of which 7 kilograms are still packaged :
- Ayez toujours le réflexe de contrôler les dates de péremption avant d’acheter des aliments pour ne pas avoir à les jeter par la suite.
- Avant de faire vos courses, faites une liste de tout ce que vous avez dans votre réfrigérateur et vos armoires.
- Faites un plan alimentaire pour la semaine en fonction de ce que vous avez toujours.
Opt for reusable food packaging
Reusable food packaging is ideal for bulk shopping, transporting food outside and storing food for long periods of time at home.
Bee Wrap, a beeswax food wrap, is a must-have item for reducing your daily waste. It is used in the same way as aluminum foil or cellophane. Finally, beeswax packaging is good for the environment because it allows you to take food, sandwiches and snacks outside without causing waste. Quick tip: show it to your stores and stop accepting their disposable packaging for 100% waste-free shopping!
Use leftovers!
Plan meals that allow you to reuse leftovers:
- Use partially broken or overripe fruits and vegetables to make compotes or pies;
- Roast vegetables to cook leftovers;
- Make a salad or gratin with leftover pasta and rice.
- Meat and fish can be made into croquettes or skewers.
- Make French toast with leftover bread and crumbs.
Adopt appropriate practices to avoid wasting water
Water waste can add up quickly, especially in the kitchen. Between dishwashing, washing, cooking, etc... Therefore, you need to develop good habits. First and foremost, make sure your faucet is not leaking. This could lead to a lot of waste.
There are basic gestures, which are not always obvious:
- While washing dishes, don't leave the water running.
- Instead of pouring the cooking water down the sink, pour it into a basin and soak your dishes in it.
- Let the water you used to cook your pasta cool before using it to water your plants.
All of these small steps can save a lot of money in the long run.