Tesco has shared a tip that could save shoppers a huge £260 on their food bills each year.
A new study by the supermarket giant found most shoppers don't take stock of what is already in their kitchens before heading to do a food shop. Despite most shoppers (65%) realising this would help them to reduce food waste, some 80% don't always do this, and instead hit the aisles or order in a takeaway without checking what they already have.
This leads to increased spending, duplicate purchases, incomplete meals and ultimately, food ending up in the bin as ingredients are overlooked and left to spoil, Chronicle Live reports.
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The research, commissioned by Tesco via YouGov, also revealed that three quarters of UK households have thrown away forgotten items lurking in cupboards, fridges and freezers that they never got around to eating. The amount of edible food an average UK household wastes each year equates to approximately £800.
As the cost of living increases and many households are seeking ways to be savvier with their budgets and their food, Tesco is encouraging shoppers to make a shopping list and take stock before they shop, order in a takeaway or even go out for dinner.
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.”
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