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Tip 1

Plan First, List Next

Your meal plan and your list are like peas in a pod – so it’s best to do them together. Go through your pantry, fridge, and freezer to see what you already have, then make a meal plan so you can work out what you need to put on your list. Always make sure to plan for at least one Unwaste Night each week where you’ll eat leftovers or dig into a freezer surprise! Life rarely goes to plan, so learn how to meal plan flexibly.

Tip 2

Organise by category

Grouping your list by category (like vegetables, dairy, grains, meats) will mean you can quickly get what you need without zig-zagging between aisles. It will also help reduce temptation to grab impulse buys. This way, you’re unwasting time while you’re unwasting food – a win-win!

Tip 3

Be Specific

Once you get to the shops, it’s easy to forget how much mince your recipe said to get, which can lead to buying extra just in case. This is easily solved by simply writing down how much you need straight onto the list.

Tip 4

Substitutes and Swaps

If something you need is out of stock or it’s more expensive than usual, have an alternative in mind to keep your meal plan on track. Swapping beef stir fry for chicken will taste just as delicious, and substituting fresh for frozen veggies is just as nutritious. Try the Saveful App for meal ideas with swappable ingredients.

Tip 5

Tick, Tick, Tick!

Whether your list is on paper, or you use a shareable list app – mark off items as you go. Not only does it help you keep on track, but every little ‘tick!’ is oh so satisfying when you know you’re unwasting. Remember, once you’ve got your list – stick to it! If you see an item on special that you hadn’t planned for, ask yourself if you have room to store it, or a plan to use it. If the answer is no, you might end up buying food that ends up wasted.