Alex Yu, TUS
Apr 15, 2024
As a PhD student at the TUS researching and studying sustainability-related topics, I understand the importance of sustainability in every aspect of life. Living with family – wife and two children, I recognise the significance of minimising food waste not only for the environment but also for my family's well-being. In this blog post, I'll share my top 7 tips for reducing food waste, tailored to my circumstances as a busy PhD student and a family man.
1. Plan family meals mindfully –
With a hectic schedule balancing research, studies, part-time work and family life, planning meals mindfully is essential for me. Before heading to the grocery store, I take inventory of what we have at home, and I have the menus for 2 to 3 days in my mind. Creating a meal plan helps me with buying only the ingredients that I need for cooking.
2. Buy only what you need –
As a responsible person, I try my best to avoid buying excessive groceries by sticking to my shopping list. I also buy in smaller quantities, especially fruits and veg, to minimise the risk of spoilage, and I check the best before and used-by dates. By purchasing only what my family needs, I save money and reduce food waste.
3. Store food properly –
Proper storage is key to prolonging the freshness of foods. I adopt best storage practices for different types of food, and based on the date of use. For example, I put the whole chicken in the freezer and only moved it to the fridge shelf for defrosting one day before cooking the chicken.
4. Get creative with leftovers –
With two growing kids, leftovers are a common occurrence in my household. Instead of letting them go to waste, I try to make new dishes with a combination of fresh food and leftovers.
5. Use every part of the ingredient –
When cooking, I make an effort to use every part of the ingredients whenever possible. Be creative and not afraid of trying new recipes, you can reduce the food waste and surprise the family with new tastes at the same time.
6. Share extra food with others –
Occasionally, I share excess food with friends at TUS or at work. This practice not only maximizes the consumption of the food prepared but also enhances friendship.
7. Feed the cats –
We have regular visitors in the rear garden – a few stray cats. We feed them with leftovers that can’t be reused – for example cooked chicken skins, small and soft bones, and so on. We enjoy the engagement with these little animals while putting less food waste into the bin.