Making the most of every meal

Environment
Published on: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
It is easy for food to go to waste in a busy household. Leftovers get pushed to the back of the fridge, fresh produce spoils faster than expected, and plans change during the week. 

While it might not seem like much, it all adds up. The average Australian household throws away around 265 kilograms of food each year, costing up to $2,500. That is a significant amount of food that never gets eaten, along with all the time, energy and resources used to produce it. 

When food is thrown away, the impact goes beyond the bin. Food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmental issue as well as a household one. At the same time, many people are facing rising grocery costs, making it more important than ever to make the most of the food we buy. 

The good news is that reducing food waste does not require big changes. It often starts with simple habits. Planning meals, storing food correctly and using what you already have can all make a difference. Understanding the difference between use by and best before dates can also help avoid throwing away food that is still safe to eat. 

Even small changes can have a noticeable impact. Making the most of what is already in your fridge or pantry not only reduces waste, it can also help stretch your grocery budget further. 

Start reducing food waste today. The City of Swan is a member of The Great Unwaste, an Australian initiative packed with practical tips and ideas to help households waste less. From smarter shopping and storage to creative ways to use leftovers, there are simple actions you can take right now. 

Want more simple ways to reduce waste at home? Curries and pastas are often even better the next day. Pack them for lunch or plan a leftovers night to make the most of what you have already cooked. Leftover veggies, roast meats or cheese can also be turned into a quick and tasty toastie, making it easy to use up what you already have. Small habits like this can go a long way. 
 
Explore our Waste-wise tips  or visit The Great Unwaste for practical ideas you can start today. 
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