Calls To Cut Christmas Food Waste

Over 40% of households are wasting food - because they're serving portions that are too big.

A study out today suggests that we are binning 4.2m tonnes every year - that is nearly £500 by every household.

Fifers are being urged to watch how much food they're buying over Christmas, when larger meals are traditionally served.

Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said: “Christmas is the one time of year when we do our upmost to avoid wasting food, turkey sandwiches become a staple of the post-Christmas diet, and I believe this good practice should be repeated all year round. 

“In 2010, 15 million tonnes of food were wasted in the UK. Living costs are rising fast, but we can combat this by using food more efficiently. Furthermore, if producers can reduce waste then consumers will see the cost of their weekly shops reduce. 

“The Scottish Government must look to communicate with producers, suppliers and consumers to create a more efficient food chain. 

“Laws have recently been passed in France which will force retailers to crack down on animal waste or face hefty fines.  More inclusive home economics lessons could help teach youngsters the value of creating dishes using leftover food.

"Raising public awareness and creating targets for suppliers to meet could also incentivise a reduction in food waste. Finally, large retailers should also have dispensation to donate perishables still within date to homeless shelters and charities.”