Grocery shopping only a minor expense? Think again.The average American family of four spends $9,200 a year on food, rounded to $10,000 when paper goods and personal-care products are added to the mix.
How much of that food ends up in the trash? According to a study conducted in Tompkins County, N.Y., it's around 40 percent. In a similar study by Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab, a whopping 93 percent of those surveyed admitted that they buy foods they never use.
A new book called "American Wasteland: How America Throws Away Nearly Half of its Food" by Jonathan Bloom, there are several ways to curb food waste.
First, it's important to combat refrigerator clutter. The average family of four squanders more than $40 worth of food each week. Take inventory of the ice box and try not to purchase food, especially fresh vegetables and fruits, that you don't eat. Bloom suggests that shoppers should make a detailed food list and to plan out their meals before heading to the grocery store.
Second, pay attention to the fridge's temperature. The average unit should be 37 degrees Fahrenheit with the freezer set at zero. Also, keep veggies in crisper drawers armed with humidity controls.
Finally, invest in produce containers with top vents and bottom strainers. This will help keep the produce longer. Also, food dehydrators can stretch your food-budget dollar to the end of the year, according to this story by Consumer United Advocate.
Click here to learn more about Bloom's "American Wasteland."
