Monday 3 July 2017

East Gippsland Shire Council will tackle the food waste problem locally thanks to a grant of $1000 from the Andrews Labor Government.

The Council will hold an interactive stall at four of the local farmers markets across East Gippsland. The Council will provide free samples of food which have been made using Love Food Hate Waste recipes, prompting conversations with market-goers about the key messages of LFHW

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing congratulated East Gippsland Shire Council on being one of 10 successful applicants of the Love Food Hate Waste Local Engagement Support Program.

Love Food Hate Waste is a government initiative helping households shop smarter to reduce their food waste, save money, and protect the environment.

Ms Shing said “on average, Victorian households throw away one in every five bags of groceries they buy, costing them $2,200 each year.

“Food waste is an avoidable environmental problem that we can all work towards minimising through simple actions, such as menu planning, using our leftovers, and storing food properly.

“When we waste food, we also waste the resources such as water and energy that were used to process, package and transport that food.

“Food waste in landfill can have direct impacts on climate change. As food waste breaks down it can create methane – a greenhouse gas that can lead to potential environmental and public health risks.

“That’s why the Andrews Labor government is helping and councils and communities work together to reduce Victoria’s food waste problem,” Ms Shing stated.

New research from Sustainability Victoria found confusion around food storage and cooking was leading to unnecessary food waste in many homes. Of those surveyed:

• 48% had thrown away food “just in case” because they were uncertain about the meanings of Expiry, Use By or Best Before dates.
• 46% had thrown away seafood because of uncertainty around how long it would stay fresh
• 43% were unsure how long cooked pasta and rice would last and had thrown it out “just in case”
• 45% of people are unsure which fresh fruit and vegetables can be frozen for later and how long they last

This funding is part of a broader $300,000 grants package to encourage better collaborations between industry, local government, and waste delivery agencies to generate less waste across Victoria.

To find out how to reduce food waste, follow the Love Food Hate Waste Victoria Facebook page or visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.vic.gov.au.