The DNR is encouraging state residents to celebrate Food Waste Prevention Week

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging state residents to celebrate Food Waste Prevention Week, held Sept. 28 – Oct. 4, by adopting simple habits to reduce waste and save money. According to the DNR’s 2020-2021 statewide waste characterization study, wasted food—defined as edible food discarded before consumption or due to spoilage—constitutes the single largest component of trash in Wisconsin landfills. When including food scraps such as banana peels, Wisconsinites sent approximately 854,000 tons of food waste, or 294 pounds per person, to landfills in 2020 alone.

Beyond environmental impacts, such as the release of powerful methane gas as organic material decomposes in landfills, food waste carries a significant financial burden. A recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report estimates that food waste costs each American consumer roughly $728 annually, with residential trash accounting for 30% of overall food waste. Kate Strom Hiorns, director of the DNR’s Waste and Materials Management Program, emphasized that food waste prevention offers a major opportunity for residents to make a positive environmental impact while simultaneously cutting grocery costs.

To help consumers curb waste, environmental agencies suggest focusing on everyday practical strategies. First, understanding date labels can prevent unnecessary disposal; except for infant formula, product date labels are not federally regulated for safety, but rather represent manufacturer estimates of peak quality. Relying on visual inspection and smell is often a more reliable gauge of freshness. Additionally, meal planning and shopping with a clear list—while utilizing tools like the UW Extension Seasonal Availability Guide—prevents impulse purchases and overbuying.

Proper storage techniques also extend the life of groceries and reduce frequent trips to the store. Resources such as Save the Food's Store It Guide and the Natural Resources Defense Council’s "The Refrigerator Demystified" provide actionable guidance on organizing refrigerators and optimizing food freshness. Finally, households looking to establish better habits can utilize the EPA’s "Get Smart: Take the Challenge" tracking tools to establish a baseline for their waste, set manageable goals, and track progress over time.