Double check what's in your fridge before writing your shopping list.
Before you write your shopping list double-check what you already have in your fridge and freezer! You don’t want another carton of eggs if you already have a dozen that need to be used.
This is the time to compost, worm farm or dispose of any foods that can’t be saved or are unsafe to eat. Be realistic – if you are not going to use it then get rid of it. Make sure that you recycle the empty jars and packaging. While the fridge is almost empty it is a good time to give it a wipe over so it is clean before you fill it with fresh products. Why not use our Easy Guide to Natural Cleaning.
Double check that your fridge and freezer are working correctly – by simply checking the seals you will be able to save on your power bills.
If you have any half empty jars that would be good for storage, take off the lids, empty them out and give them a really thorough clean. Airtight jars are great for storing tea bags, spices, nuts and flour. When you get home from shopping check if the food packaging recommends a particular storage option.
Basics for the fridge
A few handy items can make weeknight dinners a lot easier. Here are a few of our recommendations for the fridge:
- butter/margarine
- milk
- cheese – parmesan and tasty/cheddar
- eggs
- mayonnaise
- yoghurt
- sauces – tomato, sweet chilli.
Check your freezer and basic items
Before you write your shopping list double check what you already have in your freezer! We often put things in the freezer for ‘later’ and then they get forgotten about.
It is a great idea to label and date items when you put them in the freezer. For recommendations on how long different items can be stored, visit the Love Food Hate Waste Food safety section.
Freezing items allows you to reuse or preserve food that you have bought but have not been able to use in time. Freezing leftovers such as soups or sauces can be used as easy meals at a later date.
Do you know what is in your freezer?
Here are some great freezer basics:
- frozen vegetables
- mixed berries
- ready-to-bake bread
- spare loaf of bread or bread rolls
- puff and short crust pastry
- pizza bases
- meat, including fish and chicken.