The average family of four loses $1,500 in uneaten food each year, according to the EPA.  And just think of the water, fertilizer, energy, and other resources that went into producing those groceries.  Here's how to do a better job of using up what you buy.

• Store produce properly:  Anything that might wilt goes in the high-humidity fridge drawer; most fruits, peppers, and items that could rot go in the low-humidity drawer to extend their life.
• Wash fruit correctly:  That means washing just before eating for fruits such as cherries, berries, and grapes; otherwise they can get moldy.
• Separate the smart way: Store apples, avocados, bananas, pears, and stone fruits (stone fruits are fruits that have a thin skin and a hard stone or pit in the center with a seed inside) separately.  They emit ethylene gas as they ripen, making other nearby produce ripen more quickly and even spoil.
• Freeze fruits and veggies that will otherwise spoil:  Later you can add to smoothies and stews.
• Go low for meat:  The bottom shelf of the refrigerator is the chilliest, perfect for keeping meat, poultry, and seafood.  Or no meat at all is an option, store tofu and other protein alternatives.
• Don't trust the door for dairy: The compartment inside the door is the warmest spot in the fridge.  Even if it has a shelf to cradle a carton, stowing milk there could lead to it spoiling sooner.

Source: Consumer Reports May/June 2023

Need information on food safety?? Check out the Health Departments page! Food Protection Program | Scott County, Iowa (scottcountyiowa.gov)