Food waste in America is staggering, with millions of pounds discarded each year. Let’s think back to last week: did you discover spoiled food hiding in your fridge? It’s a common issue that can hit your wallet hard and harm the environment.

Globally, about one-third of all food produced is wasted, as reported by The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In the U.S., individuals waste an average of one pound of food daily. Nutritionist and holistic coach Melissa Kathryn highlights that food waste not only deprives those in need but also contributes to landfill issues as it rots.

Moreover, research published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics reveals that the average household discards $1,866 worth of food annually. In total, this waste represents 31.9% of all food consumed, totaling around $240 billion.

If you often forget to check expiration dates or overlook ingredients in your fridge, it’s time for a change. Here’s how to tackle it.

Optimize Your Produce Storage

Have you ever considered how your fridge organization affects food waste? Celebrity chef and nutritionist Serena Poon suggests that better organization can help reduce spoilage. Visibility is key; arrange your fridge so that produce nearing expiration is easily seen. Label and store items like spinach or older fruits at the front.

Designate a shelf for “Eat Me First” items. By prioritizing these products, you’re reminded to consume them before reaching for other groceries, minimizing waste and saving money in the process.

Explore Composting

Not all food scraps are edible, and sometimes we end up with ingredients no one wants to eat. Instead of tossing these into the trash, consider composting, as suggested by Poon. Affordable indoor or outdoor composting containers are available, designed to minimize odors. As you add scraps and some water, they’ll eventually transform into nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Composting enhances soil health and can create a sustainable cycle. If you have a garden, this soil will reduce the need to purchase commercial products, benefiting your plants.

Even if you lack outdoor space or gardening skills, you can still compost. Check your local government’s website for composting programs, as many offer free drop-off services at designated locations, like farmer’s markets.

Emphasize Meal Prepping

A common mistake leading to waste is shopping when hungry or without a plan. Kathryn advises checking your pantry and fridge before making a grocery list to avoid duplicates. Be specific about quantities to ensure you buy only what you’ll use.

Meal prepping is also essential. Board-certified naturopathic doctor Dr. Olivia Audrey, ND, BCDN emphasizes that planning meals in advance helps manage portions and incorporate any excess into other meals throughout the week.

For instance, if you prepare rice for lunch but have leftovers, consider using them for dinner. Meal prep doesn’t have to mean repetitive meals; varying flavors can make all the difference.

Decipher Food Labels

Kathryn points out that understanding food labels can significantly reduce waste. The terms ‘best by,’ ‘sell by,’ and ‘use by’ often mislead consumers. Manufacturers estimate these dates, but they aren’t definitive indicators of food safety. Instead, rely on sight, taste, and smell to assess food quality. The USDA doesn’t regulate these dates, leaving it up to consumers to judge freshness.