Over the past two years, households in the Upper Clutha have taken part in the popular four week programme, gaining practical tips, tricks and waste-free recipes to help them monitor and reduce their food waste. With New Zealanders throwing away around 157,000 tonnes of food every year (roughly equivalent to the weight of 2.4 million sheep!), food waste is more than just an annoying fridge clean-out, it’s a nationwide problem and one that starts in our kitchens. That’s where local chef and zero-waste champion Evelyn Vallillee comes in.
Evelyn and the Wastebusters team will get the programme underway on Thursday 30th April at the Lake Wānaka Centre. Participants will enjoy a delicious dinner cooked by Evelyn, learn more about Every Bite, pick up simple ideas to keep on top of grocery shopping with minimal waste, and receive the resources they need to get started at home.
Previous participants have called it “game-changing”, “super helpful” and, at a time when grocery bills continue to rise, “a life saver when it comes to shopping.” It’s a fun, judgement-free programme with ideas that can be tailored to every whānau and household. “Reducing food waste doesn’t mean giving up delicious meals,” says Evelyn. “In fact, with a bit of creativity, a few tricks and some flexible recipes, it’s easy to make meals go that bit further while saving you time and money. That’s what Every Bite is all about.” Every Bite begins on Thursday 30th April at 6pm with a launch event at the Lake Wānaka Centre. Early bird tickets are on sale now, costing $15 (before March 31st), which includes dinner and drinks at both the launch and wrap events and all take-home resources. All proceeds go to the Wānaka Food Bank.
