Get Savvy WITH STORAGE
How you store your food can not only extend its life, but it will also free-up valuable space in your fridge, freezer and cupboards
Most of us will resonate with having cupboards full of mismatched Tupperware, out of date jars of condiments and half empty packs of pasta. Organising your cupboards is no doubt a job that’s been on your to do list for some time, but tackling it can make a huge difference to your meal planning and food waste. Here’s how…
CHOOSE YOUR CONTAINERS
Start by deciding how you want to store your goods. Labelled Kilner jars work well stacked on open shelving, enabling you to see everything easily, but they might not be the best space-saving option for cupboards. Glass storage containers such as Sistema Brilliance are perfect for storing leftovers – they’re microwavable, freezer-safe and dishwasher proof.
HAVE A SPRING CLEAN
Go through your fridge and cupboards one at a time, recycling any broken tubs and disposing of anything that’s out of date. Give the shelves a good wipe down and you’re ready to start afresh.
STOCK UP
Make a list of all the nuts, seeds, grains, tinned items, spices and storecupboard staples (such as soy sauce, nutritional yeast, etc) that you use regularly and fill your jars or containers – ideally at your local zero waste store. Buying in bulk online is also a great way to save money. Stock your fridge with fresh fruit and veg – see below for storage tips to keep things fresh for longer!
EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR FOOD •
Keep fruit and veg apart in the fridge. Ripe fruits release a gas that causes things around it to ripen and go bad. Store fresh greens with a kitchen towel in the bag or container to absorb excess moisture and prolong life. Keep onions and garlic in a cool, dark place away from potatoes (these release moisture and will speed up decay). Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place and not in a plastic bag. Use a freezer for things that go off quickly, such as berries and spinach. Store nuts in reuseable plastic bags to save space. Herbs won’t last long, so use them quickly or keep them in the freezer so you always have a supply.
“Go through your fridge and cupboards one at a time, recycling any broken tubs and disposing of anything that’s out of date.”