Smart Ways to Reduce Food Waste: Creative Tips for Using Leftovers

Food waste is a growing global crisis. These proven tips from experienced home cooks and sustainability experts help you minimize waste effectively.

Globally, at least 1.2 billion tons of food is wasted annually, potentially reaching 2 billion tons. Much of it is discarded because produce doesn't meet aesthetic standards for sale. Shockingly, 30 to 40 percent of food that reaches supermarkets ends up in consumers' trash bins.

We can do better. Governments, development agencies, and organizations like the UN must collaborate to cut waste across the supply chain—from farmers and producers to supermarkets and households. You can start today with simple changes. Here are practical, battle-tested strategies:

• Plan portions carefully if you dislike freezing or storing extras. Or cook extra intentionally to freeze for later.
• Repurpose leftover meat into spreads or salads the next day.
• Transform odds and ends into salads: meat, veggies, pasta—anything goes.
• Freeze leftovers and dedicate one day a week to enjoying them.
• Turn vegetable scraps into nourishing soup.
• Got several small portions too tiny for one? Stir-fry them together in a wok.
• Bake savory pies from miscellaneous leftovers.

For more inspiration, check out The Kliekjeskookboek with 101 recipes built around leftovers. Available for €13.49 on AKO.nl.

Got your own go-to tips for leftovers? Share them in the comments below!