An eco-friendly Christmas: reduce food waste!

November 30, 2023 - By Anne-Marie Lacroix

Temps de lecture 3 minutes

The magic of Christmas is upon us, bringing with it joy, excitement and, of course, delicious holiday cooking. However, this season can also bring considerable food waste. Food waste accounts for approximately 30% of the waste generated by Canadian families[1]. To make the most of the holiday season while minimizing the impact on the environment and your budget, here are a few practical tips for avoiding food waste.

1. Careful meal planning

Create a well-thought-out menu based on the number of guests, avoiding overloading the table with excess dishes. Here’s a handy guide to help you estimate portion sizes for different types of food.

2. Use food you already have

Take an inventory of your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Use the food search engines on recipe sites to inspire you to use your leftovers or use these anti-waste tools.

3. Buy local and foods that are in season

Opt for local and in-season ingredients. Not only are they fresher and tastier, but it also reduces the carbon footprint of your meal. Here’s a calendar to help you plan your meals according to the season!

4. Buy in bulk

Bulk foods are not to be overlooked. It allows you to buy the right quantities (which limits waste) and save money!

5. Pay attention to best-before dates

Be sure to check the best-before dates on products before you buy them. Also, remember that dates on products say, “best before” not “best after». Here’s a guide to help you assess the real shelf life of foods and which ones you can afford to keep and eat after the best-before date.

6. Refrigerate perishable foods quickly

Once you’ve finished eating, wrap and refrigerate perishable foods, like meat, immediately to preserve freshness and avoid waste. Refrigerate within two hours of eating.

Consult this guide to food preservation.

7. Use leftovers creatively

Instead of throwing them away, turn them into delicious meals for the days ahead. Use vegetable peelings to make homemade broths and turn leftover bread into croutons. Turkey sandwiches, soups and casseroles are great ideas for reusing Christmas leftovers.

Check out the Ultime Fit platform for some meal ideas!

8. Manage portions

Let your guests serve themselves. This way, they can choose appropriate portions and avoid wasting food they don’t like as much, or food served in too large quantities.

9. Share with those in need

Donate surplus food to food banks or local organizations that help people in need.

10. Invest in reusable containers

Opt for reusable containers to store leftovers. You can also offer some leftovers to friends and family. If you’re the guest, bring along reusable containers.

By following these tips, you’ll enjoy delicious holiday meals while helping to reduce food waste, which is good for the planet and your wallet! Advice from a nutritionist can also help you plan a worry-free Christmas meal.

Happy Holidays!

[1] Government of Canada, Taking stock: Reducing food loss and waste in Canada, 2019

An eco-friendly Christmas: reduce food waste! is a post from Nautilus Plus. The Nautilus Plus blog aims to help people in their journey to fitness through articles on training, nutrition, motivation, exercise and healthy recipes.
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