Food waste is a big issue in the U.S., with nearly 40% of all food going uneaten. Dairy products, in particular, account for a significant portion of this waste. Approximately 20% of all dairy products are discarded each year, resulting in costs of over $10 billion annually to Americans. Meat is another valuable food that requires proper storage to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
With a few simple storage tips, you can extend the life of your dairy and meat products, save money, and support sustainability efforts. Here’s how:
Milk & Dairy Products
- Store Milk Properly – Keep milk on the bottom shelf of the fridge, where the temperature is coldest, rather than in the door, where temperature fluctuations can cause it to spoil faster.
- Freeze Extra Milk – If you have more milk than you can use before it expires, freeze it in small portions (ice cube trays work great!). Thaw in the fridge and use it for cooking or baking.
- Use Dairy Before It Expires – Plan meals around dairy products that are soon to expire. Add yogurt to smoothies, cheese to pasta dishes, and sour milk to pancakes or muffins instead of tossing them out.
- Hard Cheeses Last Longer – Keep cheese wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap to maintain freshness. You can also freeze shredded cheese for future use.
Meat & Poultry
- Keep Meat Cold – Store raw meat on the lowest shelf of your fridge to prevent juices from contaminating other foods. Keep it at or below 40°F.
- Freeze Before It Spoils – If you won’t use fresh meat within a few days, freeze it in an airtight package. Label with the date so you use it before freezer burn sets in.
- Thaw Safely – Always thaw meat in the fridge, not on the counter, to prevent bacteria growth.
- Use Leftovers Creatively – Turn last night’s cooked meat into sandwiches, stir-fries, or soups to reduce waste.
Reduce Waste & Save Money
By storing dairy and meat properly, you’ll not only waste less but also get the most out of every grocery trip. Farmers work hard to produce nutritious food, and by making a few small changes, we can ensure it’s eaten, not wasted!
