#USA #Harrisburg #Food Waste #Frozen Foods #Grocery Savings

New Strategies to Help Families Cut Grocery Waste and Save Money on Food

The kitchen fridge often tells a familiar story of neglected leftovers and wilted greens. A recent report from the National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) reveals startling statistics: the average American family squanders a staggering $1,500 annually on groceries that end up being discarded. On a national scale, this food waste equates to $382 billion worth of surplus food each year.

In an era where households are tightening their budgets, it's essential to reassess how we shop, store, and utilize frozen and refrigerated foods. Tricia Greyshock, President and CEO of NFRA, states, "Families want to save money while eating healthier and reducing waste, but they often lack the time to make complex meal plans." However, simple adjustments in food purchasing behavior can yield significant savings and lesser waste without complicating meal preparations.

Revealing New Insights

The NFRA’s 2025 Food Waste Insights Report emphasizes the benefits of utilizing frozen and refrigerated foods to combat waste before it begins. These products feature longer shelf lives, versatility, and continuous freshness. The data indicates that nearly 50% of Americans are opting for frozen foods due to their longevity and that 64% find these foods advantageous for managing their grocery budgets.

5 Smart Swaps for Saving Money and Reducing Waste

1. Berry Smart: Skip fresh berries that spoil quickly and select frozen ones instead. They offer the same taste and nutrients without the waste. Just toss a handful into smoothies, yogurts, or muffins, and save the rest in the freezer for future use.

2. Veg Out (the Smart Way): Invest in frozen vegetables flash-frozen at peak ripeness. They often retain more nutrients than 'fresh' produce that has spent days on transport.

3. Protein, on Pause: Buy proteins such as chicken, fish, or beef in bulk and freeze them in portions. This not only saves money but reduces the frequency of store visits and prevents valuable protein from being wasted.

4. Dinner, Done: Keep a few frozen meals ready for those busy evenings when cooking isn't an option. They can be a more economical choice than takeout while minimizing waste.

5. Love Your Leftovers: Quickly freeze leftovers rather than letting them linger in the fridge. Portion them into containers for easy access and planned lunches or dinners later in the week.

Small shifts in habits can yield significant financial benefits, potentially saving families hundreds of dollars each year while simultaneously keeping good food from the trash.

Eva Goulbourne, a food systems strategist, advises, "Many aren’t aware how swiftly minor food waste accumulates. The frozen and refrigerated aisles provide intelligent solutions — foods that remain fresh longer, cater to busy lives, and help families maximize their grocery dollars. Reducing waste doesn’t necessitate a drastic change in eating habits; it simply means using what you purchase more wisely."

Perfect Timing for Holiday Meal Planning

The festive season often sees heightened levels of household food waste, with overbuying, excessive cooking, and leftovers slipping into oblivion. Greyshock notes, "The holidays are notorious for food waste. This year, plan strategically; choose frozen sides to heat and serve, opt for dishes that can be made in advance and frozen, and keep the fridge organized so that nothing is lost at the back."

Marketing Director Kate Landis adds, “There’s no need for families to overhaul their eating habits. Frozen and refrigerated products provide flexibility, enabling you to cook when it fits your schedule, rather than being dictated by the perishability of the ingredients. They allow for reduced waste, increased savings, and continued enjoyment of beloved meals.”

Small Changes, Big Impact

Reducing household food waste by just 50% can save a family around $750 each year — enough to cover a family vacation, a month's groceries, or several tankfuls of gas.

To support families in minimizing waste and maximizing the value of their groceries, NFRA's Easy Home Meals platform offers a variety of free resources:

• - Storage tips for frozen and refrigerated foods.
• - Quick and family-friendly recipes incorporating freezer staples.
• - Meal planning strategies to minimize waste.
• - Smart shopping guides tailored to budget-conscious shoppers.

Explore EasyHomeMeals.com for more recipes, helpful tips, and inspiration to get the most out of every meal and every grocery dollar.

About the National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit organization that represents all sections of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. It engages in national promotional events across the year while providing essential consumer information, including food safety guidelines and meal preparation assistance through its Easy Home Meals website and social media channels. To learn more, visit nfraweb.org and easyhomemeals.com.