Just a few stats:
- One-third of all food goes uneaten
- 96% of that uneaten food ends up in a landfill
- The average family of 4 spends $1,500 a year on food that goes uneaten
But the waste doesn’t stop there.
It has a HUGE spillover effect that you might not think about…
All of the resources (land, water, energy, etc.) that went into producing, transporting, and storing that wasted food have also gone to waste.
In a year, that amounts to:
- Enough water and energy to supply more than 50 million homes
- Greenhouse gas emissions of more than 42 coal-fired power plants (not including any emissions caused by the food after it’s sent to a landfill)
- Agricultural land equal to the size of California and New York state
Woah, right?
Beyond health and fitness, these are all BIG reasons to make sure you have ninja-level grocery shopping habits.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll be doing something good for the planet!
Here are some quick food-saving tips:
- When you build your weekly meal plan, start with foods you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry — paying special attention to foods that need to be used up soon
- Make a list of items you need — and stick to the list when you’re at the store!
- Include quantities on your shopping list so you don’t buy too much (e.g., “chicken breast – 8 servings”)
- Don’t buy large quantities unless you know you’ll use it all before it spoils
- Store food properly, especially perishables like fruits and veggies
In the words of Howard Zinn: “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.”
You’ve got this!
Committed to Your Success,
Lyonel Lumarque
P.S. Speaking of what a massive impact “small acts” can make, what’s one small habit you could change or add to your routine this week that could lead to big results? Going for a 15-minute walk in the morning? Trading your soda for sparkling water?
If you need ideas, let’s chat. I’d be more than happy to help you find your quickest path to health and fitness.
Grab a spot in my calendar HERE!