Whether it’s cauliflower leaves or bread crusts, it can often feel like a lot of our fresh food ends up in the bin. And, with the cost-of-living crisis meaning that 85%* of Brits are spending less on food shopping, now is the time to get savvy with cooking habits. The good news is that those scraps you’re throwing away can not only be saved and savoured but many of them are loaded with nutrients, too. Our experts unpeel the health benefits of your kitchen leftovers and the waste-free ways you can use them.
8 meals could be saved each week if we stopped binning our food at home.
Onion and shallot layers
We often peel off layers of onion with the papery outer skin, but this is where antioxidants are most concentrated. Try combining with other veg peelings (carrot, parsnip ends) to make stock. Cover with water, add a bay leaf and peppercorns and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain, divide into portions, cool and freeze.
Avocado stones
Avocados are packed with goodness, but the stone is thrown away when, believe it or not, using it in a ‘tea’ can aid digestion. ‘Place the stone in a pan of water and simmer for five minutes,’ says Emilie Vanpoperinghe, co-founder of Oddbox. ‘Chop finely, then add to your teapot and infuse in boiling water for another five minutes. Strain and stir in some honey.’
15 ways to a SHARPER BRAIN
Hunting for your glasses only to realise they're on your head is frustrating, and we've all marched from one room to another, instantly forgetting why.
TV&REVIEWS
Our pick of what to watch this week, plus the best podcasts and new books...
Tone up in TUSCANY
Head to Italy for a trip that's a treat for body and soul
How healthy are your
Take extra care when using up the food in your fridge this festive season
From burnout to BRILLIANT
These inspiring women climbed back from rock bottomto find joy and fulfilment in their lives
What's on... 2025
We take a glimpse at next year's most exciting events in showbiz
Harry and Meghan UNDER PRESSURE
Divorce rumours, commercial pressures and family angst... are the duke and duchess feeling the strain? Can they get back on track in 2025, writes royal correspondent Emily Andrews
Stabbed OVER A SONG
Shira Javaid id thought her son was having the time of his life at university
Where to find help over the holidays
Need medical assistance during the Christmas period? Help is always at hand...
How to handle HANGXIETY
Battling the booze blues? Take back control with these clever tips