War on Food Waste in Australia

Climate change and the decline of the environment is a growing concern that is a major topic of discussion among the global community. Along with industrial activities, such as fossil fuel burning, land clearing and agriculture, lack of food sustainability and food wastage have played a significant role in contributing to greenhouse gas emission. Food waste impacts the environment due to agriculture and the increased use of water, land, energy and various resources used to mass-produce and distribute.

Asian Culture—History in ‘Non-waste’ Mindset and Cultural Practices

While food waste and care to the environment has recently captured the attention and concern of many globally, for centuries the concept of ‘not wasting’ has been a key cultural value across Asia. For instance, in Japan, the term ‘Mottainai’ is used to express regret or distaste in resources wasted. Similarly across Korea and China, cultural values in minimizing waste have impacted current waste disposal methods. In Korea, food waste must be disposed separate to general waste, allowing for more effective food disposal. Utilising all ingredients in one pot recipes and all-in-one sauces, such as oyster sauce and soy sauce, is common across China. Incorporating a wide range of ingredients is an effective method in minimizing food waste.

Practical and Easy Asian-inspired Recipes to Minimize Food Wastage in Your Everyday Life

Having a good understanding of the various applications and recipes from common ingredients in the kitchen can aid us in fighting food waste. An absolute staple to any Asian kitchen is rice. Combining cultural values and staples like rice, Asian Inspirations, brings recipe ideas inspired by minimising food waste.

For more rice inspired recipes check out some of these:

• Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
• Oriental Fried Rice
• Ochasuke (Japanese Green Tea Rice)
• Chicken Congee
• Sesame Rice Cakes