Cut food costs and help the environment

According to the Holyrood campaign, we throw away 630,000 tonnes of food each year — adding up to £1 billion annually and contributing to the climate change problem.

However, by drawing a line under your shopping list, you can save an average £470 a year — that’s £40 a month.

Environment secretary Richard Lochhead explained: “If we used up all the food and drink we currently waste, it would cut carbon emissions equal to taking one in four cars off Scotland’s roads.

“This year’s campaign is encouraging Scots to recycle the food they can’t use, by using food waste collection services, or by composting at home where those services aren’t available.”

Iain Gulland, director of Zero Waste Scotland, recommends planning ahead before food shopping. He said: “Things like checking the cupboards and fridge before and making a shopping list can really help.

“If you’re tempted by multi-buy offers, make sure you can freeze or share the extra items if you can’t use them up in time and don’t forget to check date labels and store food properly.”

Backing the campaign is Glasgow resident Jane Ward.

She commented: “I check to see what I’ve got so I can roughly plan out menus for the week, I also write a list before I go shopping and ticket to that.

“Now I resist these impulse buys and stick to my list so I don’t waste food. I’m saving around £10 to £20 a week on food shopping.”

For more tips on wasting less food, recycling more and local food waste collection services, go to greenerscotland.org.