Waste-free Holidays: Five FAO tips to save money and protect the environment during year-end celebrations

The year-end holidays are fast approaching, bringing families and loved ones together to give thanks for the past year's achievements, look forward to the new year with hope, and celebrate with those we cherish most.

The festive spirit has many positive aspects. However, in an effort to be good hosts, it is easy to over-purchase and over-prepare food that goes uneaten.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), 19% of food in Latin America and the Caribbean is wasted. This means one-fifth of our food ends up in the trash, a stark contradiction considering that 41 million people in the region currently suffer from hunger. To help address this issue, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) shares five tips to avoid food waste, save money, and reduce pollution from decomposing food during this festive season:

1. Shop with Purpose: Plan your meals based on portion sizes per person and buy only what you need. Don't hesitate to choose fruits and vegetables with unconventional shapes or colors and shop from local producers at markets. This also supports your local economy. Take advantage of discounts on perishable foods like ripe seasonal fruits and vegetables to prepare nutritious and healthy dishes, such as soups, juices, and smoothies.

2. A Magical Refrigerator: Set your fridge to 4°C and place perishable foods in the back, where it's colder. More durable items can stay near the door. Move older products to the front as you add new items, ensuring nothing gets forgotten in the back of the fridge.

3. Cook with Love: Often, food is wasted because we do not use it fully. For example, the leafy tops of beets, carrots, and broccoli stems, are rich in fiber and nutrients, making them a great addition to soufflés, omelets, or salads. Remember that food can dehydrate in the fridge over time. Soak vegetables in cold water before cooking to help them regain their original texture.

4. New Year, New Habits: If, despite your efforts, you've over-prepared, store leftovers in sealed containers. Do not leave prepared foods at room temperature for more than two hours. When refrigerating, label containers with the date to track freshness and prevent foodborne illness. Freeze portions when possible. The holidays also highlight social inequalities across the region. Consider donating surplus food to charitable organizations or food banks to reach those less fortunate who suffer from hunger or food insecurity.

5. A Peaceful Farewell: If you cannot preserve food for household consumption, dispose of it in an environmentally friendly way. Explore recycling, recovery, or reuse options in your neighborhood or city. Some apps and platforms facilitate food recovery by organizations that process these items to salvage nutrients. You can also repurpose food waste through composting, enriching your garden with valuable nutrients.