January is swirling with plans for a brand new year. In 2021, why not commit to wasting less food? According to SaveTheFood.org, 40% of all food in America is wasted. Luckily, there are plenty of strategies any individual or family can take to save food, save money, and help the environment. Sounds like a win all around!

Shop with a plan

Making a meal plan for the week and entering the Co-op with a robust shopping list will save you time and help you spend your grocery dollars efficiently. Our weekly and monthly sales provide plenty of opportunities to take a chance on something new (anyone else getting sick of making the same meals over and over again?). When you visit the Co-op with a list, you’ll also be less tempted by those impulse purchases—although we highly recommend treating yourself now and then.

Use up those leftovers

Stuck in the scroll? Get off social media and sift through recipes instead. There are plenty of resources online that help you use up scraps and food that’s slightly past it’s prime. Uneaten food rotting in landfills accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, so anything you can save from the waste bin counts! A few of our favorites: Mac and Cheese made with Parmesan rinds; Apple Cider Donuts made with leftover mashed potatoes; and Stock made with veggie trimmings.

Store food appropriately

Not sure how to keep your berries from molding in the fridge? Wondering whether you should store flour in the cupboard or freezer? The Interactive Storage Guide at SaveThe Food.org helps you extend the life of your groceries and ensure they stay fresh until you need them. From beans and nuts to individual fruits and vegetables, find out when an item is freshest, what its optimal storage is, how to freeze it, and a few tips and tricks for using it up before it really goes bad.

What is your food storage resolution for 2021? Tell us in the comments, and thanks for shopping locally at the St. Peter Food Co-op!