How to waste less food

Using your food waste caddy is step one. Wasting less food is step two. We have information here about how to waste less and save money.

Last updated: 16th April

Don’t just recycle it - waste less

Using your food waste caddy is step one. Wasting less food is step two.

Across the UK, millions of tonnes of food are wasted every year. Much of it could have been eaten. Evening meals and fridge clear‑outs are two of the main causes.

Reducing food waste saves money and helps the environment.

Simple ways to waste less food

You can waste less food by making small changes:

  • plan meals before shopping
  • check your fridge before buying more
  • freeze leftovers
  • understand food date labels
  • store food correctly

Buy only what you need

Reducing food waste starts before you shop.

  • Take a quick photo of your fridge before shopping
  • Plan meals using what you already have
  • Buy loose items where possible to avoid overbuying

Make food last longer

  • Use by dates are about safety — do not eat food after this date
  • Best before dates are about quality — food may still be fine after this date
  • Freeze food you’re not going to use in time
  • Keep your fridge set below 5°C

Tips on how to waste less food

Get tips on meal planning, storing food, freezing leftovers and reducing food waste at Love Food Hate Waste.