Judy Simmons

will sign up for Fridge Check Friday emails, sent by Hennepin County but open to everyone, to prompt me to check my fridge for food that needs to be used up and for hacks on storing food to keep it fresh.

I will watch 1 videos or documentaries to learn about the scope and scale of food waste in this country.

I will learn about food storage and store food based on best practices to keep it from spoiling before it is used.

I will volunteer 4 hours to support existing community food waste reduction and recovery efforts like gleaning or for a food bank.

When I try a new food or recipe, I will only make a small amount first to make sure my household likes it.

I will freeze leftover food items or meals for later. The freezer is my food-waste-reduction friend!

I will learn about food labels and not throw food out just based on the date on the package, but instead check the smell and color to see if it has gone bad.

I will observe how much my family members eat and learn how many portions will match our life stages and appetites.

Bigger carts make us feel like we need to fill them! Use a hand basket to improve grocery store discipline and prevent over-purchasing.

I will buy loose produce with a reusable bag or food from the bulk section to get the exact quantity I need.