We often discard food, not only during special occasions but in our daily lives. However, it’s simple to plan meals thoughtfully and safely repurpose cooked food.
Wastage of food is a global concern, with approximately 17% of the world’s total food production, exceeding 930 million tons, being discarded, as reported by the UN Environment Programme Food Waste Index in 2021. Shockingly, 61% of this waste occurs within households.
Simultaneously, 3.1 billion people worldwide struggle to afford or prepare nutritious meals for themselves and their families. Additionally, wasting food translates to squandering vital global resources like water, land, and electricity used in the food production process.
Festive seasons are notorious for excesses and an abundance of leftovers. Sadly, many of these leftovers end up forgotten in refrigerators until bacteria and mold render them inedible, leading to their disposal.
To enjoy festive meals while minimizing waste and avoiding foodborne illnesses, a few straightforward tips can be followed. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization provides a 15-point list of suggestions to reduce food waste, including buying only what is needed, understanding expiration dates, storing leftovers properly, and donating excess food.
Leftover food, if not handled correctly, can contribute to food poisoning. Adhering to the four Cs—cleaning, chilling, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination—when storing and consuming leftovers is crucial for preventing stomach upset.
When it comes to safely reusing leftover food, cooking is the most effective method to eliminate any potential fungi or bacteria causing foodborne illnesses. Guidelines from the US Department of Health and Human Services emphasize the importance of using leftovers within three to four days, as refrigeration only slows down bacterial and fungal growth.
It’s essential to be vigilant about signs of spoilage, such as unusual smells, tastes, or textures, and to cook food until it’s piping hot to ensure its safety. Whether preparing a dish for the first time or reheating leftovers, thorough cooking is crucial, with the goal of reaching a temperature where steam rises from the food for several minutes.
