Don’t throw it away, recycle it!
- Kayla Duesler
- Nov 23
- 3 min read
Becoming resourceful in a time when resources have become restricted: Grow your own food from scraps
In today's world, resources are increasingly limited, making recycling and resourcefulness more important than ever. With food insecurity affecting approximately 811 million people globally, many individuals and families are seeking ways to stretch their budgets and maximize what they have. One of the most effective strategies is recycling food scraps to grow new food. This blog post offers practical tips and tricks to help you save money and ensure you have food during challenging times.
Understanding Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is a pressing issue impacting millions around the world. It refers to the lack of reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. As economic conditions fluctuate, many wonder how to make the most of what they have. Adopting a resourceful mindset can turn food scraps into valuable resources that support sustenance for you and your family.
In the U.S. alone, about 35% of the food supply is wasted each year, which could feed 100 million people. By recycling scraps, you can contribute to reversing this trend, saving money, and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.
The Benefits of Recycling Food Scraps
Recycling food scraps not only reduces waste but also provides a pathway to grow your own food. For instance, engaging in gardening techniques like this can lead to a 50% reduction in grocery bills. By reusing what you often throw away, you cultivate self-sufficiency and resilience.
Saving Seeds from Fruits and Vegetables
One simple way to recycle food scraps is saving seeds from fruits and vegetables. For instance, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are rich in seeds that can be harvested and replanted.
To save seeds from tomatoes:
Slice the fruit.
Lay a slice that has seeds on top of soil.
Cover with plastic wrap, place in a sunny spot.
This process can enable you to grow several plants from one tomato, potentially yielding 15-30 tomatoes, depending on the variety.
Planting Overripe Potatoes
Another excellent method is planting overripe potatoes. If you have sprouting potatoes, cut them into pieces with at least one eye each.
Plant these pieces in well-drained soil, and you can expect a harvest of fresh potatoes in about 10-12 weeks, depending on the weather and conditions. This method not only reduces waste but also provides a fresh supply of food, showing how recycling can contribute to your meals.
Utilizing Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are staples that you can recycle into new plants. For example, if you notice an onion sprouting, place it in a glass of water, ensuring the roots are submerged.
Within a week, you will see new green shoots sprouting. You can also plant the sprouted onion directly into the soil. Garlic cloves follow a similar process; bury them with the pointed end facing up to yield garlic heads after a few months.
Embracing Resourcefulness
In a time of limited resources, adopting a resourceful mindset is crucial. By recycling food scraps to grow new food, you can save money and gain access to nutritious meals.
From saving seeds to planting overripe potatoes, many ways exist to maximize what you have. Implementing these tips not only fosters a sustainable lifestyle but also contributes to a healthier planet. Remember, don’t throw it away—recycle it!
