Recent research by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that a growing number of people are choosing diets consisting primarily of plant-based foods, which have been found to have many health benefits and tend to be better for the planet than diets high in meat. However, WHO experts recommend that people on plant-based diets pay special attention to this key area. They could benefit from including more meat in their diet: reducing food waste.
The Food and Drug Administration estimates that inefficiencies and health concerns cause the nation’s food supply to be thrown away approximately 30-40% of the time. The movement advocating for reduced waste—known as the “nose-to-tail” movement—encourages people to utilize all parts of an animal to prevent such waste.
Eating “stem-to-root” style—where you eat all parts of food rather than just its fruit or vegetable part—can reduce food waste and save money. You can also learn to like foods that taste different than what you’re used to.
Here are 10 parts of fruits and vegetables that people usually consume but may not be aware you can also eat:
- Beet Greens
- Leek Greens
- Carrot Tops
- Broccoli Stems and Leaves
- Banana Peels
- Potato Peels
- Watermelon Rinds
- Kale Stems
- Apple Cores
- Onion Skins