Most shoppers are wasting money by not checking what they have at home before heading to the supermarket, according to new data.
In a consumer survey, commissioned by Tesco via YouGov, 80 per cent of Brits don't always take stock of what's in the cupboard before a shopping trip, despite 65 per cent acknowledging that doing so would help them limit food waste.
Not only does this put more food in the bin, but it also leads to increased spending due to multiple purchases and not using spoiled ingredients. As the cost-of-living crisis continues, unnecessary spending is the last thing households want, especially amidst increasing food prices.
Now, the supermarket giant is encouraging shoppers to take one day a week to use up supplies before heading to the supermarket, as doing so could help shoppers save over £250, reports Wales Online.
Tesco's research showed that 75 per cent of UK homes regularly bin foods from the fridge, freezer and cupboards that they never get round to using. Findings show this equate to approximately £800 worth of wasted food per household annually.
Tesco is encouraging the nation to implement a Use Up Day where once a week, people cook a meal using up food already in their kitchen, without needing to go out to buy more. By adopting this simple food hack, the average family could reduce the amount of food thrown away at home by a third, which equates to a potential financial saving of £260 per year.
This weekly kitchen clear out helps shoppers to take stock to see what food they already have, making it easier to write a list of what is needed before going out to buy more food.
Tony McElroy, Tesco Head of Campaigns said: “At Tesco, we want our customers to be able to get more out of their food shop whilst keeping delicious meals on the table. That’s why we’re encouraging shoppers to implement a weekly Use Up Day, take stock of what they have in their kitchens and make a shopping list before going out to shop.
"A little planning can help to spend less and reduce food waste, helping both our pockets and the planet.”
To provide inspiration, chefs at Tesco have compiled their top 5 budget and waste-friendly recipes to help everyone make the most of the most forgotten about items, all costing less than £1.50 per serving.
Tasty recipes from Chefs at Tesco to inspire Use Up Day
- Chilli bean soup with cheesy garlic bread – perfect for using up bread, tinned beans, onions and chopped tomatoes
- Tomato and pesto spaghetti – perfect for using up tomatoes, pasta, pesto and lemons
- Slow-cooker sausage and butter bean casserole – perfect for using up any sausages, peppers, pitta breads and cheese
- Banoffee pie – perfect for using up bananas, milk and biscuits
For more recipes and tips on reducing food waste, visit the Tesco food waste hub here.
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