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Seasonal Highlights: FOOD WASTE

A recent report from Refed revealed that to food quality, not safety. If an item or friends, or donate them. Check

37% of the United States’ food waste comes has no mold, o smell, discoloration, out Freedge.org to fi nd a community
from homes. So let this Earth Month be or signifi cant change in texture or refrigerator near you. Of course, local
the start of a zero food-waste habit. This appearance, it’s fi ne to eat. food banks also accept canned and
new lifestyle starts by doing things a little • Freeze. Storing many foods at very low nonperishable items.
di erently. temperatures can extend their lifespans up To reduce the amount of greenhouse

Here are a few ways to eliminate household to 12 months. Freeze leftovers in single emissions bubbling up from landfi lls, keep
food waste: portions so that the correct amount can as much food out of them as possible. This
be thawed and eaten. practice is good for your environment,
• Shop with a plan. Buying groceries with
a purpose increases the likelihood you • Be a clever chef. If you end up with more wallet, and community.
will consume them. Plan your menu for food than planned, don’t throw it away. Source:
the week and get ingredients that will Add leftover meats, vegetables, fruits, https://www.rts.com/resources/guides/food-waste-
work for more than one meal. mushrooms, and herbs to soups, stews, america/
• Understand food labels. Labels are salads, or desserts. https://www.fdareader.com/blog/understanding-
guides, not laws. “Expires on,” “Use by,” • Share. If there’s no way you can use expiration-dates-and-date-labels
“Best before,” and “Sell by” dates refer some groceries, o er them to neighbors

Nutrition Note: NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH

Join the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics body, so eating di erent foods, including
and registered dietitians in celebrating your favorite cultural dishes, is essential.
National Nutrition Month®. National Fresh, frozen, and canned foods are similar
Nutrition Month originated to promote in nutrient quality, so consider utilizing all
positive behaviors and habits to stay healthy. of them. Frozen and canned foods usually
This March, focus on how you can Fuel for cost less than their fresh versions and take
the Future® by examining how food and less time to cook.
beverage choices impact your health and well- • Making tasty foods at home. When you
being now and over time.
cook at home, you control what is going
You and your family can lay the foundation for on your plate. You can customize fl avors,
a healthy future by: ingredients, and preparation methods while

• Eating with the environment in mind. meeting your and your family’s nutritional
Purchase more seasonal produce, locally needs. Plus, you’ll spend less money
grown foods, and brands focused on can be a ordable, especially with proper cooking at home than dining at a restaurant.

sustainable practices. Try including meatless planning. Create a shopping list that includes Encourage your family or friends to eat
or plant-forward meals in your diet. together (even virtually) when possible.
seasonal produce, plant-based proteins, and
• Visiting a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist canned and frozen fruit and vegetables. Many things infl uence our health, including
(RDN). Dietitians can help you navigate Community resources like SNAP, WIC, what we eat. Contact a registered dietitian if
your unique nutrition concerns. They are and food pantries and banks are helpful you are having trouble meeting your or your
nutrition experts. Ask your primary care programs that o er food assistance to those family’s nutritional needs. They can provide

provider for a referral and fi nd an RDN who are eligible. individualized recommendations to help you
specializing in your needs. • Consuming a variety of foods from fuel for the future.
• Staying nourished and saving money. every food group. Varying your food Source:
The cost of groceries can add up, making choices helps you get all the nutrients https://www.eatright.org/national-nutrition-
eating healthy and managing your needs needed to stay healthy now and as you age. month-2023
challenging. However, nourishing foods Each food group plays a role in fueling your