If you’re like me, you have a
fridge full of leftovers that keep getting pushed to the side until finally
(weeks later) they get thrown out. The guilt starts to sink in when I’m
emptying containers full of food into the garbage, ultimately throwing my
money away. But what I don’t always realize is that I am also contributing to
the estimated 90 billion pounds or $107 billion worth of food that goes
uneaten each year. For a family a four,
this translates to about $1,500 worth of food wasted annually!
March is National Nutrition Month®
and the Academy
of Nutrition and Dietetics is reminding us
to Go Further with Food. This years
theme encourages us to eat healthfully while reducing food loss and waste. With
the help of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a little planning I
started doing these three things to save nutrients and money. Give them a try!
1.
Make a Game Plan –
meal planning is one of the best ways to save time and money. I make a list of
meals for the week that include lots of healthy foods like lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, veggies and low-fat dairy. I
also choose meals that I can easily throw together on busy weeknights. Then I
check my freezer and cupboards to see what ingredients I already have on hand
before heading out to the grocery store. Need some recipe inspiration? Visit https://whatscooking.fns.usda.gov/
2.
Watch It – your mind can
play tricks on you, stay one step ahead and make sure you know what portion
sizes are just right for you! Visit https://www.choosemyplate.gov/ for your personalized meal plan.
3.
Love your leftovers - using leftovers to create delicious and
nutritious meals all week long is a great way to Go Further with Food. Check http://www.clintonhealth.org/foodsafety/ to make sure you are reheating foods to safe temperatures.
Ready to have some
fun?! Click here
to find out if you are a MyPlate Master.
KayLeigh Raville, RD, CDN, CLC
Public Health Nutritionist
KayLeigh Raville, RD, CDN, CLC
Public Health Nutritionist
