How to teach the next generation about food waste

Running to the store, buying more than we need, and throwing out food that can be used in new ways seems to be the norm for many of us. Instead of planning our meals ahead of time and taking stock of what we have, we create an overwhelming amount of waste by not being resourceful.

So, what can we do to stop this? One way is to teach the next generation about frugality, seasonal produce, the value of food and gratitude. This will help ensure future generations value the hard work of our food producers and the enormous efforts they go to so that we have food available year-round.

These 6 simple steps will help you teach your kids how to value food and consider the impact of throwing things out without care.

Teach awareness and gratitude

We can’t simply tell our kids not to waste food. We have to lead by example and encourage them to be grateful for the food they have right now. While it may not seem like it, changes in climate or food supply chains can influence produce availability. Think of the times gone by where our elders were tasked with making meals out of (literally) nothing because of global influences that strain the food supply. Dishes such as this water pie are born from times of lack. Starting from a place of gratitude for what we have right now helps put things in perspective and helps us think creatively about making do with what we have. 

Get the kids to do a grocery audit

An easy way to teach kids about the value of food is to include them in your grocery planning. The next time you’re writing out your grocery list, give the kids a pen and paper and ask them to plan what they’d like to eat. Get them to list the ingredients needed, then ask them to check if you already have the ingredients or if you need to buy more. Teach them to become aware of what they have already, so you don’t overspend at the supermarket.

Get the kids to help create snack menus 

Kids love snacks, and one way to help use up the ingredients you already have is to get the kids involved in creating ‘use-it-up platters’. 

Ask them to pick from the ingredients you already have and create after-school snack platters. It will help you and your children become aware of how much you’re spending on snacks that are often thrown away.

Teach the kids to cook

If the kids are old enough, teach them how to make simple dishes. Try these pizza scrolls or pea and fetta fritters, or even these easy kid-friendly turkey meatballs. Instilling an interest in cooking will help kids appreciate what is on their plate.

Eating out? Order one meal to share instead of individual meals for the kids

Monitoring food waste can be more difficult when you’re eating out. It’s easy to throw away what you don’t finish or send a half-eaten plate back to the kitchen. Reduce the amount you order when dining out by sharing a dish with the kids instead of ordering individual meals. You’ll not only teach the kids about compromise, but they’ll learn to share and appreciate that they have choices. 

Get creative with leftovers

Thinking up new dishes is creative, but thinking of how to reuse leftovers is really creative. Leftovers can be re-cooked and served with a twist. Vegetables can be chargrilled and used in a Mediterranean salad. Leftover beef can be turned into a deep-dish pie. Rice can be made into a hearty rice pudding, and even leftover bread can make this warming number. 

Small steps in this direction will help future generations become aware of the value of food production. It’ll not only help maintain a standard of value and gratitude, but it will also help their hip-pocket and reduce food waste too.

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