The Food Waste-Saving "Use Me First" Swag Hack to Live By

In a world where food waste is a growing concern, innovative solutions are always welcome. Enter The Swag’s simple yet effective “Use Me First” coding system, a game-changer in the realm of getting the most out of your produce. 

The Problem:
We've all been there—excitedly reaching for an avocado, only to discover a forgotten half hiding behind the fresh veggies in the fridge. The disappointment is real, and so is the impact on our wallets and the environment.

The Swag Solution:
Picture this: A Swag bag with a specific colour trim (say, a Small Red Swag, for example) designated as the guardian of your oldest produce. This "Use Me First" coding system is is a strategy to help you make the most out of your groceries before they spoil. The simplicity of this hack is its brilliance.

How it Works:

1. Choose your colour:
Designate a colour Swag (we like red because it’s reminds the kid’s of an “alarm!” so we will use this in our example below) -  exclusively for your oldest produce. The colour acts as a visual cue, making it easy for you and your family to identify which items need to be used first.

2. Implement the System:
When the produce in your Swags has dwindled down, you’ll almost be ready to do your next shop. Place all of the older items, or anything close to their expiration date, into the Small Red Swag. This could include fruits, vegetables, or herbs that need to be consumed promptly. This process also  gives you more time to wash your other Swags. 

3. Fridge-Friendly:
Store the Small Red Swag prominently in your fridge crisper (or shelf), at the front and centre, to make it easily accessible and so no one will miss it! The vibrant colour helps ensure that it catches your eye every time you open the fridge door.

4. Use Me First Mentality:
Train yourself (and the fam!) to reach for the Red Swag first when planning or prepping meals. By doing so, you're not only minimising food waste but also ensuring that your oldest produce gets the attention it deserves and does not get mixed in with the newer produce. 

Benefits of the "Use Me First" Hack:

  • Reduced Food Waste:
    The primary goal of this coding system is to minimise food waste. By consistently using the oldest items first, you're actively participating in the fight against unnecessary food disposal.

  • Cost Savings:
    Wasting less food means saving more money. The Swag's "Use Me First" hack allows you to maximise and extend the value of your grocery purchases by ensuring nothing gets missed or forgotten.

  • Streamlined Meal Planning:
    Simplify your meal planning process by incorporating the "Use Me First" mentality. It adds an extra layer of organisation to your kitchen routine, making it easier to create delicious meals without the worry of forgotten ingredients.

We know that every small effort contributes to a sustainable future (and your bank account), and that's why The Swag's "Use Me First" hack stands out as a practical and user-friendly solution. By incorporating this coding system into your kitchen routine, you're not just reducing food waste; you're creating a more efficient and mindful approach to your grocery management. Embrace a dedicated coloured Swag, and let the "Use Me First" hack transform the way you see and use your produce. Your wallet and the environment will thank you!