#FoodWasteFriday: Low-Waste BBQ
Summer is here and in full swing! Ready to start hosting backyard BBQs again? With covid rates decreasing, we’re sure hoping to have a lot more outdoor gatherings with friends and family! Here are some ideas to host a low-waste BBQ!
Food set out on picnic table.
Time of Day - plan portion sizes while considering the time of the party. People will eat more if the event spans lunch or dinner and also will eat more if alcoholic beverages are served.
Snacks vs. Meals - if you have a wide variety of chips, dips, fruit, cheese plate, etc., people will eat less as a main dish; so plan on a smaller entree portion if you love snacks.
Avoid Spoilage - food is safe at room temperature for no more than 4 hours, half that if it’s sitting in the direct sunlight at any time. Try plating smaller portions of items that will spoil sooner, and restock as needed.
Normalize Real Plates and Utensils - Be brave and cast off those disposable plates! Or, at least consider the thin white paper plates that can be composted. Chances are your everyday silverware can go outside, or consider purchasing an inexpensive set for large gatherings (check your local second-hand store!). Maybe take it a step further and give cloth napkins a try!
Reusable utensils, napkin, and cup.
5. Take Home Leftovers - while you're instructing your guests, ask them to arrive with jars or containers to bring home any leftovers so your home isn’t overwhelmed for days. I’ve done this for years and I promise it’s not weird and your friends will start to look forward to it.
Reusable tupperware
6. Eat a Rainbow - Load up with vegetables and serve less meat. If you do need a flank steak (we get it, we’re fans too), just aim for smaller portions per person (2-3 ounces rather than our wasteful and conditioned 6-8 ounces) and pair it with hearty grilled veggies and side dishes.
7. Decorate - Summer is naturally gorgeous! Ditch the balloons (forever, please) and look to nature. String up some reusable Christmas lights or use some candles. A potted plant or succulent tray from elsewhere in your house or yard can grace the table. Make a centerpiece with fruit from the farmer’s market that can double as dessert!
Sustainable party decorations, cloth tablecloth, plants for centerpieces, re-usable holiday lights.
Have a great time (and remember to invite us)!
