Day 3: Three French Hens—Cook Sustainably for the Holidays
12 Days of Christmas: Sustainability Style
Celebrate the holiday season while making sustainable choices! This Christmas Blog series will not only get us ready for the holidays, but it will share some advise on adopting eco-friendly habits and discovering thoughtful gifts that make a positive impact on the planet. Each day includes product recommendations that encourage greener shopping.
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Did you know that in the U.S., roughly 40% of food goes to waste each year? That’s like buying three French hens and tossing one straight into the trash! During the holidays, food waste spikes by 25%, with uneaten leftovers and overambitious menus leading the charge. It’s not just a waste of delicious potential (I love leftovers!), but also of the water, energy, and resources used to produce that food.
By making eco-friendly choices in the kitchen, you’re not just saving the planet—you’re saving money too. Sustainable cooking isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and making conscious choices for consumption. So, if you’re going to channel your inner Top Chef this holiday season, why not make it eco-conscious? After all, the planet deserves a seat at the table too.
Tips for a Sustainable Holiday Feast
Cooking sustainably starts with a few mindful changes in how we shop, prepare, and serve food during the holidays. Here are some practical tips to get you started:
Plan Your Portions
Avoid food waste by planning your holiday menu with realistic portions. Use online tools to calculate serving sizes or get creative with leftovers to make delicious soups, sandwiches, or casseroles.Source Local and Organic Ingredients
Support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint by sourcing seasonal, organic produce. Farmers' markets are a fantastic place to find fresh ingredients grown close to home.Ditch Single-Use Plastics
Say goodbye to cling film and plastic bags! Opt for reusable storage solutions that keep your ingredients fresh while reducing waste.
Sustainable Product Ideas
Here are some sustainable kitchen essentials that make great gifts—or additions to your own home—this holiday season:
Organic Cotton Reusable Produce Bags
Replace single-use plastic produce bags with these durable, breathable alternatives. Perfect for fruits, veggies, and bulk pantry items, they’re a small change with a big impact.Compostable Food Storage Wraps
Beeswax wraps are a game-changer for storing leftovers or covering bowls. They’re reusable, biodegradable, and add a touch of eco-chic to your kitchen routine.Sustainable Cookware, Like Cast-Iron Skillets
Invest in cookware that lasts a lifetime. Cast-iron skillets are versatile, durable, and free from toxic coatings. They’re also fantastic for creating those perfectly crispy dishes everyone loves.
10 Sustainable Kitchen Finds
Here’s a roundup of sustainable kitchen products to help you cook more consciously:
The holiday season often comes with a spike in waste—from excess packaging to uneaten food. By choosing sustainable products and habits, you can make a difference, one meal at a time. Supporting eco-friendly practices in the kitchen not only reduces your environmental impact but also inspires others to do the same—truly something to savor.