Uncover the Truth About Holiday Food Waste in Bozeman
Holiday Meals and Their Significance
During the holidays, there's an abundance of food. One woman prefers a good elk steak, while another looks forward to cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning. Stevie has an old family recipe for rolls, and Adam, being Italian, loves Cioppino. These meals hold a special place in people's hearts and traditions.
For many, there's often more food than needed. So, the question arises: how do we strike the right balance? Adam suggests trying to buy only what's necessary for each meal and not purchasing more until it's used for lunch or dinner. This simple yet effective approach can help reduce food waste.
Reducing Food Waste at the Bozeman Co-Op
Rory Sandoval, the general manager of the Bozeman Co-Op, reveals some shocking facts. Waste increases by 25% around the holidays between Thanksgiving and Christmas. With up to 17,000 customers a week during the holiday season, it's a significant issue.
The Co-Op has been taking steps to reduce food waste. They are very thoughtful about the food they buy, ensuring they have enough but not too much. When there is extra food, it goes to local food banks. Last year alone, they donated 14 tons of food.
Composting as a Solution
Anya, shopping with her baby Auggie, emphasizes the importance of composting. Sometimes, it's inevitable, but at least it doesn't end up in a landfill. The Bozeman Co-Op has a huge composting operation. In 2023 alone, they diverted 96.5 tons of waste from landfills through partnerships with Happy Trash Can.
Anyone interested in reducing food waste can bring their holiday scraps to the bins behind one of the Co-Op's locations. It's a simple way to make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable holiday season.
Remembering the True Spirit of the Holidays
Stevie, excited to make her family's rolls, hopes people remember that the holidays are about coming together and enjoying the fruits of the harvest, not just about buying and showing love through purchasing. It's a reminder to focus on the true meaning of the holidays.