Simple Solutions to Food Waste You Need to Know

Let’s have a chat about food waste. Not exactly the most thrilling topic, I know—but stick with me, because it’s a much bigger problem than most people realise.



Every year in Australia, we toss out a huge amount of perfectly good food. We’re not just talking about the odd mouldy strawberry or that forgotten bag of spinach at the bottom of the fridge—70% of the food we waste is actually edible. That’s food that could have been eaten, money that could have been saved, and resources that didn’t need to go to waste.

Why Food Waste is More Than Just an Annoyance

Throwing out food isn’t just bad for the wallet—it’s also bad for the planet. Food waste is a major contributor to climate change, and because the cost of food is linked to demand, wasting food also drives up grocery prices. At the same time, we’ve got people across the country struggling to put food on the table.



And in case you’re wondering what we waste the most? Bananas, bread, and veggies. Yep, the things we buy the most are also the things we chuck the most.

Easy Fixes That Make a Big Difference

So, what’s the solution? It’s not about being perfect, it’s about making small changes that actually stick.

For starters, before you bin those sad, floppy veggies—try reviving them. A carrot that’s gone a bit bendy? Stick it in a glass of water and watch it come back to life. Seriously, it works.

And while we’re at it, stop putting tomatoes in the fridge. Just… don’t do it. They’ll taste way better if you leave them out.

If You Can’t See It, You Won’t Eat It

One of the biggest reasons food gets wasted is because it gets forgotten. If you can’t see it, you won’t use it. An organised fridge and pantry can help prevent that, and making sure leftovers or soon-to-expire items are in clear sight means you’re more likely to use them before they go off.

And if you’ve got more food than you can eat in time? Freeze it. You’d be surprised what can go in the freezer—some things might even shock you.

The Wrap-Up

Cutting down on food waste isn’t about making your life harder—it’s about making a few easy swaps that actually save time and money. So next time you’re about to chuck something, pause and think—can it be saved? Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you.

Want to learn more about food waste at home? Find out if your council is part of the @ HOME Program here.