Because
our family values saving money and preventing food waste so much, I am always a
bit taken aback by those who abhor leftovers to the point of outright
wastefulness. We have plenty of family and friends who share the same
priorities that we have when it comes to environmental sustainability and respect
for what went into the food on one’s plate, yet we have those that seem to not
regard these at all. Surely, everyone is allowed to live how they want, but
when it comes to food, there is so much at stake when it comes to wasting it. Besides
simply not wasting your money, you help the environment by decreasing the
methane produced in landfills, and by not squandering the energy, water, and
resources that went into food production in the first place.
Here are a few reasons I think folks
avoid leftovers, and how they can combat this:
·
Economic
Status: Some
families rely on eating up everything they have, but I think others who
view themselves as of a higher-class status believe they may be “above” doing
the same, or don’t “need” to because they can afford to waste. But if you focus
on how being educated about environmental sustainability benefits all and is
also better for the economy in the long-term, you can keep your eye on the
right reasons to be mindful.
·
Distraction:
We live in an age
of instant gratification coupled with endless ways to distract ourselves from
distress. Food can serve the same purpose; perhaps some folks order more
takeout than they need to fill a void or distract. Instead, focus on the
special occasions you do go out to eat or order something yummy. Make it
special, albeit simply less frequent.
·
Lack
of Cooking Confidence:
I think some might be insecure about their cooking ability and/or simply loathe
it, leading to not wanting to bother with leftovers. But kitchen skills need
not be a prerequisite for preventing waste. Opt for easy recipes, think of ways
to refurbish items into new creative meals, and meal plan in advance so you can
have time to prepare things you actually enjoy.
·
Anxiety:
Food borne
illnesses are a real thing, and if you’ve ever had even mild food poisoning in
your life, you might be legitimately nervous to eat “old” food. Read up on the
truth behind expiration and “sold by” dates, as well as protocols and
guidelines for how to store leftover food properly. This will alleviate a lot
of the doubt you may have.
Finally, I think what it comes down
to for a lot of people is thinking they simply “deserve” treats, Doordash
orders, takeout, and other indulges rather than “settling” for leftover food.
Sure, we all deserve treats occasionally, but by shifting our mindset to focus
on more important things – protecting our planet, maintaining our health, and
saving precious money, we can recalibrate our thinking to what we really deserve.
