Canadians create over 50 million tonnes of food waste, resulting in major financial losses and substantial greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, fruits and vegetables account for most the food waste produced in Canada.
Due to improper storage or over-harvesting, perishable items can be easily spoiled. Love Food Hate Waste reports that every day in Canada, about 1,200,000 tomatoes, 1,225,000 apples, 555,000 bananas, 2,400,000 potatoes, and 470,000 heads of lettuce are wasted.
In case you are experiencing a bountiful amount of produce in your home garden, there are many ways to make good use of surplus. Here are seven different ways:
1. Preserve your pickings
With a little time and effort, you can preserve your food through canning, freezing, pickling, fermenting and dehydrating. Learn more about the different preservation methods here.
2. Donate to a local food pantry or food rescue organization
Search for local food pantries and food rescue organizations that accept fresh produce to donate to those in need on an on-going, seasonal and emergency basis.
3. Start a produce stand in your front yard
A simple “FREE” sign taped to a basket or table will help your produce find a good home. You could even consider getting your neighbours in on a collaborative growing effort.
4. Cook a meal for a neighbour in need
Preparing a meal for a busy friend or neighbour is a wonderful way to show you care. Bringing over dinner to a family with a medical situation or to a new parent can be a lifesaver during overwhelming times.
5. Barter for goods and services
Ask around and find people who will be happy to swap or trade other items or services such as weeding or watering assistance in exchange for garden-fresh produce.
6. Make veggie-filled goodie bags
If you plan on having guests over, fill paper bags with garden-fresh fruits and vegetables and hand them out as your guests leave. You may even include your favorite recipes for cooking inspiration.
7. Compost it
If you have exhausted all other options, let the produce get past the point of edible ripeness and transform leftover fruits and veggies into a nutritious soil for your next growing season.