Growing your own food is a great way to look after yourself, your loved ones and the world around you. Some benefits include:

For some handy tips on growing produce in your backyard, on your balcony or even on your windowsill, check out this article by ABC Life.

Sustainable food is food that has been grown or produced with consideration of its health, environmental and social impact. At the shop, this means that we need to think about where our food was grown and made, the materials that it is made from, how it is packaged as well as why and how we are using it. Some things to think about include:

Avoid, reduce, reuse, recycle. The first step to sustainable shopping is to think more deeply about your purchases. Could you grow it yourself? Do you need to follow the recipe exactly or could you substitute an ingredient for something that you have at home?

Get creative and plan ahead! This is an important step in reducing food waste. 

   2.  Is the produce in season?

By choosing produce that is in season, you can support local farmers and reduce the food miles associated with your product. 

    3.  Was it grown or made locally?

Food often travels long distances to get on your plate. This has a significant environmental cost due to the energy expenditure and emissions associated with long-distance travel. By choosing local produce you are also able to support local farmers and build a greater sense of connection and community in your area. 

    4.  Was it made ethically? 

It is important that we grow and raise food in a way that cares for animals, the environment and your health. 

    5.  Packaging 

Packaging is an important part of food safety but sometimes food can come in excess, single-use packaging that can have serious effects on the environment. 

Before buying a product, think about the necessity of the packaging that it comes in. Could the product be bought in bulk to avoid extra packaging? Is the packaging single-use? Can it be recycled or home composted? 

Try and select products with less packaging or if possible, no packaging at all! Avoid, reduce, reuse, recycle.

One of the easiest ways to reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill is to produce less! We have shared some top waste-reducing tips below. Try them today and if you have any to add - let us know!