International Day of Zero Waste Food – April 24
Every year on April 24, we mark the International Day of Zero Waste Food – a day that encourages us to reflect on our food habits and to take concrete steps toward reducing food waste.
The reality is that households are the largest source of food waste, which means individuals hold the greatest power to make a difference.
According to the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia, the average Slovenian throws away 72 kilograms of food per year. Households account for 47% of all food waste, followed by the hospitality and food service industry (37%), retail (9%), and food production (7%).
With a few simple habits, each of us can contribute to reducing food waste:
- Plan your shopping – check what you already have at home, make a shopping list, and go to the store on a full stomach. Choose unpackaged fruits and vegetables to take only as much as you truly need.
- Check expiration dates – if you won’t use the food immediately, choose products with a longer shelf life or freeze them.
- Buy local – local food is fresher and travels a shorter distance to reach your plate.
- Keep your fridge organized – place newer items at the back and older ones at the front to use them in time.
- Maintain the correct fridge temperature – for optimal food freshness, keep it between 1°C and 5°C.
- Serve smaller portions – you can always add more if needed.
- Get creative with leftovers – turn fruit into smoothies or desserts, make soup from leftover vegetables, or transform pasta and potatoes into new dishes. Culinary websites are full of ideas and inspiration.
The International Day of Zero Waste Food is a powerful reminder that each of us has an impact – through awareness and small daily steps, we can make a big difference.
Food should never be taken for granted, and by treating it with respect, we honor the environment, the people who produce it, and the valuable resources behind every meal.
