Ugly Fruit, Misshapen Veggies
Food waste is clearly an environmental problem: In the United States alone, Americans throw away approximately 63 million tons of food each year.
Enter the ugly produce market. For-profit companies selling misshapen fruits and vegetables argue that they are saving perfectly healthy food from becoming waste. Consumers, too, who subscribe to such services believe they are acting both nobly and ethically. But is any of this true?
On today’s short and sweet episode I’m answering a listener’s question as to whether ugly produce subscriptions are worth the hype.
Here’s a preview:
[2:30] 3 things the ugly produce business doesn’t want you to know
[5:30] What *actually* happens to imperfect foods at farms and packing houses
[10:30] Reducing food waste in our kitchens: What’s working for Stephanie right now
[12:00] How and why to embark on a Use-It-Up week
Additional learning:
- The Murky Ethics Of The Ugly Produce Business (via The Atlantic)
- Farms Aren’t Tossing Perfectly Good Produce. You are. (Via The Washington Post)
- Want more episodes like this one? Check out #177: Becoming A Zero-Waste Chef
* Thank you to Wholesome Bakery for sponsoring this week’s episode! Use promo code SUSTAINABLE for 10% off your first order.
* Thank you also to Simply Earth! Get your free 80ml essential oil diffuser here.
* Leave a voicemail with your question and I’ll answer it on-air! Here’s how: State your name then leave the show a message at (508) 960-9046.
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2 thoughts on “Ugly Fruit, Misshapen Veggies”
Thank you so much for this! I’ve been feeling a tad guilty for NOT buying that so-called ugly produce…even though I do participate in a CSA program for my fruits and veggies. What you said makes SO much sense, now that I think about it. Farmers are already operating on such thin margins….why would they waste ANYTHING?
You are so welcome! Happy the episode resonated with you. -Stephanie
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