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Australia’s peak nutrition body is calling on Australians to put an end to food waste on the eve of Clean Up Australia Day, where thousands of Australians will help clean up their local environments by collecting and removing rubbish.

Studies show Australians throw away more than $5 billion worth of food each year, or more than $1,000 for the average household of four. And food waste makes up 15 per cent of the 20 million tonnes of waste that goes into landfill in Australia each year.

The CEO of the Dietitians Association of Australia, Claire Hewat, said: ‘Australians throw away as much as 20 per cent of the food they buy. That’s the equivalent of buying five bags of groceries and throwing one away, which is costing us the earth – in more ways than one.

‘We all need to take responsibility for food waste by making smarter choices in the supermarket and at home. By being less wasteful, we can all save money and reduce our impact on the environment.’

She said simple steps, such as planning meals in advance, using a shopping list, cooking realistic portion sizes and storing food properly can make a huge difference to the amount of food which ends up in the bin.

‘Wasted food just rots in landfill, producing potent greenhouse gases such as methane, which has even more impact than carbon dioxide,’ said Ms Hewat.

DAA’s tips to reduce food waste:

•    Plan meals in advance. Check what you have already in the fridge, freezer and cupboard, and then make a shopping list. At the shops, buy only what you need – including the right quantities.

•    Buy foods with minimal packaging or recycled packaging. Foods such as rice, pasta, legumes, oats and nuts can be purchased in bulk, providing good value for money.

•    Cook the right amount. For example, 65 to 100g meat and one cup of cooked rice and pasta are the recommended serve sizes for adults for these foods.

•    Chill or freeze leftovers. Instead of throwing out last night’s leftovers, take them to work for lunch.

•    Store food properly. Make use of your fridge crisper for fruit and vegetables, which will keep them fresher for longer.

•    Get a compost bin or worm farm for any waste you do have or, better still, some chickens in your yard if you have the space.

March 2011

Source: Dietitians Association Australia