We all have been guilty of throwing away food scraps and items that have passed their expiration dates or don’t seem to be fresh enough for consumption. However, did you know that some of these “expired” foods can actually be reused for maximum health benefits, wallet, and the environment? Yes, you heard it right. Health experts have revealed some surprising ways to give a new life to these overlooked ingredients. So, before you toss them in the trash, read on to discover the hidden potential of these food items.

1. Over-ripe bananas.

This fruit is often discarded when it starts to turn brown and mushy. But before you do that, consider this – those overripe bananas are actually packed with vitamins and minerals! According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, overripe bananas contain a higher level of antioxidants compared to their younger and greener counterparts. These antioxidants are known to boost our immune system, fight against chronic diseases, and even slow down the process of aging. So, instead of throwing them away, why not use them to make a delicious and healthy banana bread? You can also freeze them and throw them into smoothies for a creamy and nutritious treat.

2. Vegetable Peels and Scraps

Whether it’s potato, carrot, cucumber peels, onion skins, and celery ends, most of us tend to discard them without a second thought. However, these peels are actually packed with nutrients and can be used in various ways. For instance, potato peels are a great source of fiber and vitamin C.

Instead of discarding potato, cucumber, carrot peels, onion skins, and celery ends, collect them to make a flavorful vegetable broth. Simply simmer the scraps in water with herbs and spices, then strain. This homemade broth can serve as a base for soups, stews, or cooking grains. You can also toss them in olive oil, season with some herbs and oven-bake them for a delicious and healthy snack. Similarly, cucumber peels contain a high concentration of antioxidants and can be used to make a refreshing and nutritious juice or added to salads for some extra crunch and nutrition.

3. Unappetizing Broccoli Stems

Most of us tend to discard these tough stems and only eat the florets. However, studies have shown that the broccoli stems actually contain more nutrients than the florets. They are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to any meal. Don’t believe us? According to a 2017 study published in the International Journal of Food Properties, the stems of broccoli contain almost 30% more calcium and 60% more iron than the florets. So, instead of throwing them away, slice them thinly and add them to stir-fries or soups for an extra dose of nutrition.

4. Over-ripe Fruits

Overripe berries, or apples might not be ideal for eating raw, but they’re perfect for baking. Use them in muffins, breads, or smoothies to add natural sweetness and moisture.

5. Stale Bread

Don’t throw away stale bread! Transform it into breadcrumbs or croutons. For breadcrumbs, pulse the dried bread in a food processor. To make croutons, cube the bread, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake until crispy. These additions can enhance salads, soups, and casseroles.

6. Citrus Peels

Citrus peels are more versatile than you might think. Use them to infuse flavor into teas, marinades, or baked goods. Alternatively, candy them for a sweet treat or dry them to create homemade potpourri.

7. Coffee Grounds

After brewing your morning coffee, don’t toss the grounds. They make an excellent addition to compost due to their rich nitrogen content. Additionally, used coffee grounds can serve as a natural deodorizer for your refrigerator or as an exfoliating scrub for your skin.

8. Bones and Meat Scraps

Leftover bones from poultry, beef, or pork can be boiled to create nutrient-rich bone broth. This broth is not only flavorful but also packed with collagen and minerals beneficial for joint and gut health.

9. Herb Stems

Instead of discarding herb stems like those from parsley or cilantro, chop them finely to add flavor to sauces, marinades, or salads. They offer the same taste as the leaves and reduce waste.

10. Potato Peels

Potato peels can be transformed into a tasty snack. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake until crispy to make homemade potato skin chips.

11. Eggshells

Yes, you read that right. Eggshells, which are usually thrown away, can actually be used for multiple health benefits. According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, eggshells are a rich source of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals that are essential for healthy bones and teeth. You can add crushed eggshells to smoothies or sprinkle them on top of your oatmeal for a boost of calcium.

You can also use them as a natural fertilizer for your plants by crushing them and adding them to the soil. Rinse them, let them dry, then crush them into small pieces before sprinkling around your plants. This practice can help prevent blossom-end rot in tomatoes and peppers.

12. Composting

When reusing isn’t feasible, composting is an excellent way to recycle food scraps. Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, benefiting your garden and reducing landfill waste.

Bottom Line

Now that you know that these overlooked food items can be reused for maximum health benefits as well as make a positive impact on our finances, and the planet, we hope you’ll think twice before throwing them away. Not only will you be reducing food wastage, but you’ll also be giving your body a much-needed dose of nutrients. So, the time you’re about to toss those kitchen leftovers, consider these creative, nutritious, and practical alternatives. Your body will thank you for it! 

Reference

1. Healthline. (2023). 10 Clever Ways to Use Food Scraps. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/uses-for-food-scraps

2. Better Homes & Gardens. (2023). Creative Ways to Reuse Food Scraps. Retrieved from https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-to/food-scraps

3. Martha Stewart. (2023). How to Reuse Food Scraps to Reduce Waste. Retrieved from https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-reuse-food-scraps-to-reduce-waste-8620406

4. University of Georgia Health Center. (2023). 10 Things You Can Do with Food Scraps to Reduce Food Waste. Retrieved from https://healthcenter.uga.edu/10-things-you-can-do-with-food-scraps-to-reduce-food-waste