Dr. Vidushi (Sustainability Enthusiast)
Every time we throw away uneaten leftovers or let fruits rot in the fridge, we’re not just wasting food—we’re wasting water, energy, money, and the efforts of every hand involved in bringing that food to our table.
Globally, one-third of all food produced is never eaten. In India alone, it’s estimated that over 68 million tonnes of food is wasted each year. This isn’t just a moral or economic issue—it’s an environmental one. Wasted food in landfills emits methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide.
Most food waste happens at the household level, which means we have the power to change it—starting in our kitchens.
Simple Habits, Big Impact
How you can begin reducing food waste without changing your entire lifestyle:
Plan Before You Shop
Make a shopping list based on your weekly meal plan. Check your fridge and pantry to avoid buying duplicates. Stick to your list and avoid impulse buys, especially perishables.
Store Smarter
Many foods go bad simply because they’re stored incorrectly. Learn where each item belongs—some vegetables do better in the crisper, while others (like tomatoes and potatoes) prefer the counter.
Love Your Leftovers
Cooked too much? That’s okay. Label leftovers and keep them at the front of your fridge so they don’t get forgotten. Transform yesterday’s sabzi into today’s paratha filling or mix them into a grain bowl.
Use “Ugly” Produce
Odd-shaped carrots or spotted bananas are just as nutritious—and usually cheaper. Use overripe fruits in smoothies, cakes, or even homemade jams.
Understand “Best Before” Dates
“Best before” doesn’t always mean “bad after.” Use your senses—smell, taste, look—before tossing food.
Compost What You Can’t Save
Not everything can be saved—and that’s where composting helps. Vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and even tea leaves can be composted at home. It reduces landfill load and gives you nutrient-rich soil for your plants.
Make It a Family Habit
Involve everyone in the household—track what’s getting thrown, host a weekly “fridge clean-out” meal, or challenge kids to come up with recipes from what’s left in the pantry.
Reducing food waste isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress—one smart choice at a time.
Let’s Rethink Our Plates
Food is too precious to waste. Every morsel saved is a win for your wallet, the planet, and the millions of people who go to bed hungry each night.
So next time you’re about to bin that last roti or half a cucumber—pause and ask: can this still be used? You’ll be surprised how often the answer is yes.