Food waste

Research suggests Australians are wasting at least $700 million a year on ditched fresh fruit and vegetables. Most households claimed to throw out more than $100 worth of spoiled produce a year. Busy families that buy then throw out fruit and vegetables because they have no time to cook are big culprits, but working couples with no children are the waste generation ringleaders. Older people on tight budgets were least likely to let food go bad. Food Science Australia experts said correct refrigeration temperature and proper storage kept food in good condition, warded off poisonous bacteria, and cut waste.

Herald Sun February 1, 2002