Aussies cutting food waste

NEW research suggests 90 per cent of Australians believe they have a responsibility in ending food waste in our country.

Data from not-for-profit End Food Waste Australia reveals Australians are embracing new habits to cut down on the 7.7 million meals wasted every day.

Six months since launching The Great Unwaste campaign, substantial improvements are being made in behaviours and perceptions around household food waste.

Just over three quarters of Aussies (78 per cent) say they now intend to incorporate regular leftover nights into their weekly meal plans.

People’s intentions to use simple tips such as checking recommended serving sizes have also jumped from 42 per cent to 65 per cent.

The Great Unwaste campaign director Mandy Hall said reducing food waste is a rewarding opportunity for households to be involved in.

“No one likes throwing food, or money, in the bin”.

“The Great Unwaste shows that reducing food waste doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or fun in the kitchen”.

“Learning to love your leftovers and prepping your meals for the week are opportunities to get creative, cook smarter, and enjoy food even more!”

Food wate behavioural expert Dr Mark Boulet emphasised the signs are encouraging to suggest food reduction is being seen as achievable and not overwhelming.

“By focusing on realistic and flexible solutions, more Australians are seeing the benefits of wasting less and saving more.

“Small daily changes, as simple as checking who is eating before cooking and following recommended portion sizes, soon turn to habits, leading to long-term change in how we consume and value food.”

To learn the best ways to be “unwasted”, head to thegreatunwaste.com.au