As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s becoming increasingly imperative to find innovative ways to stretch a dollar, particularly when it comes to food. Plus, as we collectively move towards a circular economy to reduce waste and minimize the effects of climate change, food waste has become a critical issue that all Canadians can take steps to avoid.
Stop Food Waste Day (April 24th), an annual event established by Compass Group – one of the world’s largest food service providers – serves as a reminder of the staggering amount of food that goes to waste each year, with over 50% of all food in Canada heading to landfill annually. In light of this, it’s time to roll up our sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and explore unconventional methods to utilize every bit of our ingredients. Leading the charge in the fight against food waste in Canada, Compass Group Canada’s sustainability initiatives in campuses, hospitals, long-term care homes and sports and entertainment venues across Canada provide valuable insights into how we can adapt to reduce food waste across the nation. Spearheading efforts to raise awareness of Stop Food Waste Day, this year, the organization is sharing valuable tips from Canadian culinary expert Chef Kory Dippuchio.
“In the kitchen, creativity becomes our greatest weapon against food waste. Embracing unconventional methods and innovative approaches, we can unlock a world of flavor possibilities while combating a critical issue,” said Chef Kory, Corporate Executive Chef at Compass Group Canada. “Stop Food Waste Day reminds us that every ingredient holds potential, and to always think twice before throwing food in the bin.”
One of the most exciting avenues for fighting food waste lies in utilizing every part of the ingredients we cook with, even the seemingly odd or overlooked ones. We’ve got a few unique kitchen hacks that not only cut costs but also transform food scraps into culinary delights.
Embrace the Odd Parts:
- Date Pits for Coffee Alternative: Instead of discarding date pits, consider drying and roasting them for a unique coffee substitute.
- Citrus Peels for Candied Treats: Transform citrus peels into delightful candied peels, perfect for snacking or as a garnish for desserts.
- Dried Coffee Grinds and Cocoa: Combine dried coffee grinds with cocoa powder for an intense flavor boost in baking recipes.
- Pineapple Skins for Tea or Tenderizing: Pineapple skins can be used to make nutrient-rich tea or as a tenderizing agent when brining meats.
- Coffee Grinds for Gardening: Repurpose used coffee grinds in your garden to enrich the soil with valuable nutrients.
Maximizing Summer Fruits and Veggies:
- Sangria with Peels: Use leftover citrus peels in sangria for a refreshing twist to a classic summer drink.
- Leftover Fruit Jam: Cook leftover fruits with chia seeds to create delicious jams.
- Seasonal Panzanella Salad: Combine leftover veggies into a hearty panzanella salad.
- Fruit Leather: Turn fruit scraps into homemade fruit roll-ups for a tasty snack.
- Wilted Greens Pesto: Whip up pesto using wilted greens like kale or lettuce, ensuring no greens go to waste.
The Art of Pickling:
- Preserve Produce for Winter: Pickling is an excellent way to savor the last of summer’s bounty throughout the winter months.
Adopting simple yet effective practices can extend the shelf life of perishable items and minimize food waste year-round. Tips such as storing salad greens with paper towels, keeping herbs and asparagus hydrated, and separating fruits and vegetables to prevent premature ripening can make a significant difference in your produce shelf-life.
Finally, let’s not overlook the potential of kitchen tools like the zester, which can elevate dishes with minimal effort. Whether zesting citrus for tea or adding zest to various recipes, this versatile tool can unlock a world of flavor possibilities while using up the entire fruit.
Stop Food Waste Day serves as a reminder for individuals and communities to rethink their approach to food consumption and waste. Whether at home, in schools and institutions, or other large-scale hospitality venues, by embracing creativity in the kitchen, utilizing every part of our ingredients, and adopting sustainable practices, we can make meaningful strides towards reducing food waste and building a more resilient food system for generations to come. Join us in celebrating Stop Food Waste Day by embracing these tips and inspiring others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference, one meal at a time.
For more information, visit www.stopfoodwasteday.com
