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How much food is wasted during Thanksgiving?
Experts estimate that about 320 million pounds of food are wasted during Thanksgiving each year. Much of this waste comes from over-preparing, leftovers that aren’t eaten, and food that goes bad before it can be used. Reducing this waste can help save money and lessen the environmental impact of landfills.
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What are simple tips to reduce holiday food waste?
Planning your menu carefully, buying only what you need, and portioning food properly can significantly cut waste. Using leftovers creatively, such as making stock from turkey carcasses or turning vegetable scraps into pesto, also helps. Proper storage and safety tools like thermometers ensure food stays fresh and safe to eat.
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Can I use food scraps in creative ways?
Absolutely! Food scraps like carrot tops, onion peels, and turkey bones can be repurposed into delicious stocks, soups, or pestos. This not only reduces waste but also adds flavor to your meals and makes the most of every ingredient.
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Why is reducing food waste important for the planet?
Food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane from landfills. By wasting less food, we can reduce our carbon footprint, conserve resources like water and energy, and help fight climate change. Small changes during holidays can make a big environmental difference.
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What safety tools should I use for a safe Thanksgiving meal?
Using kitchen safety tools like food thermometers, sharp knives, and proper storage containers helps prevent foodborne illnesses. Ensuring your food is cooked to the right temperature and stored correctly keeps everyone safe and healthy during the holiday.
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How can I plan better to avoid overbuying food?
Creating a detailed shopping list based on your guest count and menu helps prevent buying too much. Consider buying near-expiry or imperfect produce, which is often cheaper and just as good, and plan for leftovers to be used in future meals or donated.