How to Save Money by Not Wasting Food

Intro: Have you thrown out leftovers, and other foods, because you forgot they were there?  Throwing out food that could have been eaten, or buying food and ingredients you already have, is wasting money.  Maybe the problem isn’t you, but the storage containers you are using.

I resolved this problem by purchasing a couple of small bowls with glass lids; they are great.  I can see inside them, and I am able to use all my leftovers, allowing me to save money by not wasting food.  However, they are small; I wanted something with larger bowls and glass tops.  I was not able to find them with glass tops, but I did find a set with different size glass bowls with plastic tops.

I purchased this set of glass bowls when they were on sale around Thanksgiving time last year, and I have really enjoyed using them.  They save me money because I can see exactly what I have in the refrigerator, and I am able to use it, instead of lose it.  They are very convenient to use since they are stackable, and they save space in the refrigerator and pantry.  With the plastic lid removed, and a glass plate or saucer placed on top, I can use them in the microwave.

I also recycle glass jars, and use them for storing foods, both in the refrigerator and in the pantry.  I use them for beverages, hot or cold, and anything else appropriate for their size and shape.

Step 1: Store food and leftovers in clear glass bowls and jars.

Step 2: Look inside your refrigerator and pantry, when planning a meal, to see what you have that can be added to other ingredients to make a meal or a side dish.  This will save money by not wasting food.  Wasting food, even in small amounts, adds up over time, especially if it can be used in another dish.

Step 3: Use leftovers and ingredients you already have; with clear glass containers, you can readily see what’s on hand.  To shop and buy items you already have, is a waste of money and time.

Tips: Even though the glass bowls will need to be purchased, they are reusable for years.

*  Recycling your glass jars will save them from the landfill.

*  Glass is easily washed in the dishwasher, and can be placed on either rack.

*  Glass can also be used in the microwave.

*  Jars are great for carrying soup, stews, etc., to neighbors and friends.

*  Glass storage containers also eliminate the worry over which type of plastic container is safe for food storage.

*  An added bonus - the glass dishes I purchased were made in the USA.

Warnings:   As with anything you purchase and use, always read the manufacturer’s instructions on the proper use.  Some glass can’t be used in ovens with a temperature over a certain degree.  Be sure to read all the instructions.

Comments (8)

Donna Thacker said:

	... Great tips...I always lose things in the fridge!
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December 12, 2009
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djeff37 said:

	... This is a good article on how not to be wasteful. 5*
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January 15, 2010
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kimanesha said:

	... Thanks for the informative article. These tips can help every household.
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January 18, 2010
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tracysmith159 said:

	... Wonderful article. Learning to save food and reuse them is a great way to help save money and not waste food.
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February 17, 2010
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donata said:

	... Great suggestions for saving money...I have learned to eat leftover food instead of tossing it out, especially if it's still fresh. Food cost to much money to waste...that's why I put all leftovers in containers and put in the fridge for later. Thanks for the sharing. 5*****
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February 18, 2010
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cynthiantristan said:

	... I am telling my roommate to buy gla*s containers for the storage and heating of food. He keeps buying plastic containers and when we store something saucy away and microwave it, we have to throw away the plastic containers since the sauce stains won't disappear. I guess I'll buy it. Thanx for the tips and for sharing this well written article.
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February 19, 2010
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Stacy said:

	... Will have to try a few tops you suggested! Might even keep the food for longer periods of time:)
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March 22, 2010
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jswana said:

	... We can all benefit from this one here. I learned the hard way to stop wasting food. Thanks for sharing.
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May 16, 2010
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