“So, are you making any resolutions this year?” If you’re like me, that sequence of words sounds like nails on a chalkboard. Some years I couldn’t care less about trying to come up with the perfect resolution. Other years I have one in mind, but don’t feel like broadcasting it to the world.
This year, I’m throwing caution to the wind and telling y’all: In 2013, I’m going to address one of my most embarrassing food habits. No, I’m not referring to my peanut butter cup addiction. I’m talking about reducing the amount of food I throw away.
I’ve read the headlines and seen the reports: I know I’m not the only lazy consumer out there. According to a report from the Natural Resources Defense Council, American families throw out about 25% of the food and drink they buy. Media coverage of food waste points the finger at everything from bulk purchasing to confusing expiration dates, but frankly, I blame myself.
So far, my plan for turning this resolution into reality consists of:
- Downloading apps like Consume Within
- Consulting The Flavor Bible when I need inspiration for what do with leftovers
- Buying a cute compost bin for my apartment
- Listening to Tristram Stuart’s TED talk every time I throw out a bunch of kale
If all else fails, I may put a sign on my fridge that says “EAT YOUR FOOD.” Put that way, how hard can it be?
(I’ll let you know…)
By day, Meg is a Consumer Strategist at Iconoculture, helping clients in the food and beverage industry understand consumer behavior. By night, she is a graduate student at Boston University pursuing a Master’s degree in Gastronomy with an emphasis in food policy.