Healthy Cities Illawarra and Hidden Harvest are teaching people how to be food smart

Healthy Cities Illawarra has partnered with Hidden Harvest to provide a hands-on experience to change the way people think about food waste while learning to cook.

The Food Smart Workshop and Dinner program is being offered to childcare centres and parent groups with 12 groups already selected.

Participants learn to make delicious and creative meals from common leftover ingredients, as well as how to reduce the amount of food they throw away through better shopping, planning and storage techniques.

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"Some food waste is unavoidable, such as teabags, bones, eggshells and coffee grinds which can't be saved, most of the food wasted in our homes is avoidable," said food waste educator Berbel Franse.

"Waste usually happens when we buy too much, cook too much or don't store food correctly.

"By making a few simple changes at home, we can reduce food waste, eat well, save money and the environment."

Participants measure the food waste at the start and end of the program to monitor the progress of their food waste reduction.

They also receive a free tool kit with items such as bag clips and food huggers to help them keep their food fresh for longer. 

The average NSW household throws away $70 of edible food each week, with research indicating families with children are amongst the top food-wasters.

The program has received funding from a NSW Environment Protection Authority grant, funded from the waste levy.

Groups interested in taking part should email berbel@healthyillawarra.org.au 

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