Kaitlin Messmer

I will sign up for Fridge Check Friday emails, sent by Hennepin County but open to everyone, to prompt me to check my fridge for food that needs to be used up and for hacks on storing food to keep it fresh.

I will resist the suggestion to buy the quantity advertised on sale and only buy what I know I will eat.

I will resist impulse buys by eating a snack or meal before going grocery shopping. Those who grocery shop on an empty stomach spend 64% more than not-hungry shoppers.

I will learn about food labels and not throw food out just based on the date on the package, but instead check the smell and color to see if it has gone bad.

I will create an "Eat First" area in my fridge to prioritize food that needs to be used right away for my household of 4.

I will organize my refrigerator to maximize shelf life based on the temperature and humidity of different spots.

If I am missing an ingredient for a recipe I will find a substitute I have on hand and use that instead.

I will freeze fruits and veggies, such as overripe bananas or avocados, to use later in smoothies.