Top 4 Most Commonly Wasted Foods and How to Save Them

In Romania, we throw away around 2.5 million tons of food every year. That means not just wasted resources, but lost money and a serious environmental impact. Fortunately, much of what ends up in the trash could be easily saved. Here are four of the most commonly discarded foods, and some practical ideas for how to use them smartly.

1. Bread is the most frequently thrown-away food in Romanian households. It dries out quickly, especially if not stored properly.

How to use it:

• Croutons for soups or salads

• Breadcrumbs for coatings, meatballs, or crispy toppings

• Garlic toast or reinvented sandwiches

Good to know! You can freeze bread if you won’t eat it in time, it keeps perfectly.

2. Overripe fruits, like bananas, bruise easily, and apples, pears, or plums soften quickly, but they’re still perfectly edible.

How to use them:

• Smoothies

• Banana bread or muffins

• Baked fruit with cinnamon

3. Dairy near its expiry date (yogurt, milk, sour cream) is still safe to use in cooked dishes, as long as it doesn’t smell or taste off.

How to use them:

• Pancakes or fluffy doughnuts

• Savory tarts or cheese pastries

• Sauces for pasta, creamy soups, or dressings

4. Sprouting potatoes or soft vegetables. Many people throw them out immediately, but as long as potatoes are firm and don’t have green spots, they’re still fine to eat. The same goes for slightly soft carrots or zucchini.

How to use them:

• Creamy soups or stews

• Oven-baked chips

• Roasted vegetables with herbs and olive oil

Good to know! The scraps can be composted if you have a garden or houseplants.

Each food saved means money kept in your pocket, less strain on the environment, and a small step toward a more mindful lifestyle. No need for drastic changes, just try looking at your fridge with fresh eyes.