Take our food waste challenge this autumn

Help the planet and your pockets by reducing food waste

Although Surrey residents are already actively reducing how much food they throw away, there is still more that can be done. So why not challenge yourself this season and see how much money you can save?

Cost of living pressures and rising food prices mean that there is no better time to start thinking about how we can reduce food waste. By saving money on your food waste, you are not only saving money for yourself. You are also helping your council save money on disposal costs, which can be spent on other essential services.

Saving food waste and money is easier than you may think. Check out our tips below.

Store it right

Make your food last for longer by storing it right.

• Rethink your fruit bowl. Apples, bananas and peaches shouldn't be stored with avocados, lemons and grapes as they spoil quicker.
• Worried about cheese going off? Chop it into small pieces and freeze on a baking tray. Once frozen, you can pop it into a container and pull out what you need, when you need it. Ideal for sauces and cooking.

Try reverse meal-planning

Instead of making a meal wish-list, check your cupboards for what you already have and make a meal from that. You might be surprised to find what's lurking in your fridge/freezer and cupboards. It could even be enough for a whole week's worth of meals!

Love your freezer

If you cook too much of something, like bolognese or curry, pop it into the freezer. Then all you need to do is pull it out and heat up on those busy weeknights when you have no time to cook.

If you'd like more tips and information on how to reduce your food waste, visit our food tips webpage.