Small Changes, Big Impact: Making the Most of Surplus!
This Food Waste Action Week, we’re shining a light on our members. Every day, thousands of you shop surplus and turn great products into delicious meals at home, reducing food waste while saving money along the way. As Food Waste Action Week highlights the importance of cutting waste, our members are already leading the way through smarter shopping and the creative use of leftovers.
Small changes, big impact
Sometimes the smallest changes in our daily routines can make the biggest difference to your wallet. In the kitchen, a little creativity can go a long way, whether it’s trying a new recipe, making the most of what’s already in the fridge, or discovering an ingredient you might not normally pick up.
Our members are full of great tips when it comes to getting creative with surplus finds. From building meals around what’s already available, to cooking in batches and storing meals for later, these simple habits help stretch budgets while reducing food waste.
Cooking with what’s available
Many of our members share inspiration on building meals around what they already have. Instead of shopping with a strict list, they look at what’s available both in the fridge, and on our shelves and create meals from there. This simple change can reduce food waste and often leads to trying new ingredients or recipes that you might not have tried before.
Craig's veggie stir fry
Stephanie’s homemade ice cream
“I used 2x Skyr coconut yoghurts and a bunch of over ripe bananas blended together. Total cost was 50p for two tubs full! A great way to avoid waste."
Batch cooking and planning ahead
Batch cooking is another favourite among our members. When they spot a great surplus deal, lots of you choose to cook larger portions that can be stored or frozen for later.
From turning bags of fruit and vegetables into pasta sauces, chutneys or jams, to transforming cream into homemade butter, surplus ingredients can easily become staples for the weeks ahead or even thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Chrissie’s homemade roast tomato soup
Marilyn’s homemade strawberry jam
"Now I’m stocked up on my favourite jam!"
For many of you, these small habits quickly become part of your everyday life. Helping you stretch your budgets while enjoying delicious home cooked meals.
Inspired by our members
We’re always inspired by the creativity of our members and the ways they make the most of surplus food every day. Whether it’s discovering a new favourite recipe, preparing meals for the week ahead, or simply trying something different, these small changes can have a big impact.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Member Spotlight blog for recipe ideas shared by our community.
Together, these everyday choices help make the most of good food and show that with a little creativity, surplus ingredients can become something great for you, your wallet, and the planet.
Keep your eyes peeled for our next member spotlight post on our Facebook page to showcase your surplus cooking skills!
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