Cutting down on food waste can save you serious cash.
Check out how I extend the life of these super-healthy but super-perishable foods.
Even though I live alone, my freezer is always packed full.
Getty Images / Westend61 / Frank Bean / Siri Stafford
Not only is this better for the environment, but also it helps me save money.
The average American throws away around$1,300 per year from wasted food.
Needless to say, being mindful about how you store your food can save you some serious cash.
Here are six foods you should always buy frozen to save money.
Berries
I love fresh, in-season berries as much as the next person.
Frozen berries are super versatile, too.
Plus, they can be stored in the freezer for several months.
Spinach
You have probably heard that it’s a good idea to eat more dark, leafy greens.
Instead, I always have a few packs of frozen spinach on hand.
Sure, you’re free to’t use frozen spinach for, say, a salad.
Look no further.Green peasandedamameboast an impressive 4 and 9 grams of protein, respectively, per half-cup serving.
Plus, each has 4 grams of fiber per serving.
This protein and fiber combo helps make peas and edamame super-filling, affordable foods.
I am always finding new dishes to add them to.
This makes dinner planning a breeze because I can plan around the proteins I already have.
Not to mention, my weekly grocery shops are way cheaper.
Bread
A few years ago, I started making my ownhomemade sourdough bread.
It takes some time, but it’s a process I love.
Since it’s presliced, I can easily grab as many pieces as I need to.
And I never have to worry about opening a bag to find mold on my beloved bread.
This also helps me justify buying fresh whole-wheat bread when I don’t make my own.
Fish
Fish has a notoriously short shelf life, only aboutone to two days in the fridge.
One way is by keeping fish frozen until you are ready to use it.
As a bonus, it typically thaws much faster than poultry or red meat.
These foods have notoriously short shelf lives, so are common sources of food waste.
Storing them in the freezer helps you cut down on waste and, in turn, save money.
For more on how I use them, check out thesemake-ahead meals I swear by for busy weeks.
