Ever since I switched my focus from what I was eating to what I was throwing away, I’ve learned a lot. I identify as a creative/emotional eater, so I frequently follow cravings and romanticize food. Unfortunately, this can often result in a lot of waste.

Food Waste Solutions: Learn From Your Trash

Like many others, there are just some things I know I don’t like – the texture of frozen food, American cheese, the flavor of mushrooms, etc. But how did I learn that? From tasting it at one point in my life and saying, “Ew, gross,” before throwing it away. Not all lessons are as straightforward, however, and a lot can be learned from your trash. What kind of food are you throwing away, and at what time of day? Why don’t you like it? How does it make you feel?

These insights led to some really interesting takeaways for me.

Smoothies for Breakfast

I love breakfast food, but over time, I’ve realized that I barely finish breakfast-like foods when I eat them in the morning. My stomach just isn’t ready to eat solids yet. I was consistently throwing out half of a breakfast burrito or bowl of oatmeal. However, when only starting the day with a cup of coffee or tea, I’d immediately become nauseated. Even settling for a bagel or donut didn’t help – half always went in the garbage. Instead, I’ve been experimenting with protein-rich smoothies and drinks. I don’t get stomachaches, but I still feel really full. And to clarify – juice isn’t enough.

I Kind of Don’t Like Meat

Meat production is horrible for the environment — even more so when you consider how much goes in the trash. I eat meat, but my husband and stepson are both vegan, which obviously has had an impact on my meat intake. However, even without them, I find myself increasingly repelled by meat, especially lunch meat. As a Food Studies major, I’ve also read a lot about how meat is made — once you know, you can’t block some of those images from your head. Currently, products like cheese and eggs are still OK with me, but I’ve cut down on how much eat.

Vegetables Are Delicious

I love fruit, but it’s still very sugary — I’m more into veggies. I’ve tried to increase my veggie intake by any means necessary, even eating more raw veggies (more nutrients that way!) I recently had an amazing cabbage salad from Whole Foods that was delicious – their hot bar is one of my favorite ways to try new veggies in smaller portions.

I’m Not Super Into Ice Cream

I used to have a ton of freezer-burnt ice cream in my freezer. You would assume that it was because I loved ice cream, but actually, I could never finish a container. My husband loves ice cream, but I rarely buy it anymore, preferring to get slices of cheesecake or crumble for dessert.

Getting to Know Your Eating Type

Want more insights about your eating habits and food waste? Take our eating-type quiz to get recommendations on lessening food waste at home!