When money is tight, it gets harder to throw food away. But there are times when food must be thrown away for safety. This happens when:

• Food has spoiled
• Food is part of a recall or outbreak
• Food has not been properly refrigerated or stored

This lesson has taught you many ways to keep food safe, so you do not have to throw it out. Below are a few more ideas that can help you save money while preventing foodborne illness.

1. Make smaller purchases when shopping

This will help you make sure your family eats the food you purchase before it spoils.

2. Make a grocery list before every visit

Having a list helps you know exactly what you need. This can help keep you from buying something you already have. Having too much of something means it could spoil before you use it.

Deeper Dive

After you finish this lesson, consider taking our free lesson called Making a Meal Plan. It will show you how to create grocery lists that help you save money and time.

3. Choose frozen or shelf-stable foods.

Frozen foods can last for 3-4 months in the freezer without losing quality. Shelf-stable foods can last for a long time, too. Use the FoodKeeper app to help you know how long food can last without spoiling. Note: This link will open in a new tab.