Ways to reduce our environmental food footprint
It is estimated that over one-third of the food produced in the US goes uneaten. Oftentimes, this leads to perfectly good food ending up in a landfill, adding to the greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. Understanding expiration dates and the safety of dairy — and how to use up that last little bit — are vital in preventing food waste.
Here are some ways to use up those delicious and nutritious dairy products you have in your fridge.
Milk
Milk is affordable, accessible, and a one-stop-shop for good nutrition. Each 8-ounce glass provides 13 essential nutrients; the key is to get those nutrients in your body and not down the drain. Discover ways to use the milk in your fridge, including a recipe for Cheese and Vegetable Strata, and avoid wasting this nutrient-dense food.
Cheese
From breakfast to dessert, cheese ranks high in yum factor. In addition to being tasty, it’s a fermented food that’s good for immune health; it also helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles. So, to avoid throwing away all that goodness – use the different cheese varieties in your fridge and follow our recipe to whip up a Fromage Fort Dip, delicious both hot or cold.
Yogurt
Yogurt is versatile — in the kitchen and in your body. It’s good for your bones, blood pressure, and immune system plus it’s easy to digest because it’s low in lactose and provides good bacteria. Learn more about yogurt’s versatility in the kitchen and discover a great recipe for making Frozen Yogurt Bark.
Fruits
Crunchy apples, tender berries, and juicy oranges — all fruits deliver healthful benefits. They provide fiber, vitamins, electrolytes, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory plant compounds. Here’s a creamy, easy, protein-packed yogurt fruit dip is a delicious way to enjoy the fruit you have on hand.
Vegetables
Vegetables are full of nutrients our bodies need — they provide antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But vegetables don’t age well, so here are some tips to use what you have. We’ve also got a quick taco recipe that’s an easy way to use leftover veggies.
Looking for more ways to reduce food waste at home or school?
Visit the EPA website for tips and toolkits designed to help with food waste reduction.
