Waste management is one of the most overlooked factors when it comes to running a food service operation, and very often leftover food is thrown away without thinking twice. Eye-opening research by Solid Waste Corporation Management Malaysia (SWCorp) reveals that Malaysians waste 25% of food during the process of preparation, production, and consumption.
One way to combat this troubling issue is by keeping an eye out for products with price control and price fluctuations. Determine the stability of these prices and make ingredient changes on the menu as you see fit. Otherwise, you may also consider cancelling an item out indefinitely if the cost of an item outweighs the profit in the long run.
Activating alerts for weather reports is also an excellent method to keep food waste in check. Your business may experience a decrease in diner footfall during the monsoon and rainy season, so be sure to prepare fewer ingredients to minimise wastage. Otherwise, there are various creative methods to repurpose leftover ingredients to good use.
Animal bones and organs
The rule of thumb is whatever’s left of the animal that doesn’t sell (bones, fillet, skin), throw them together and make a stock! Not only does this save you money on purchasing additional ingredients, the recipe itself is extremely simple – your leftovers, plus water, onions, celery, carrots and a bouquet garnish.
Orange peel
There’s a myriad of ways to utilise this versatile ingredient; from shredding them into zest as a condiment to boiling them in hot water to create your own fruity infusion, be sure not to throw any of these out.
Leftover vegetables
From carrot tops to onion ends, these leftovers may seem miniscule in quantity but the amount does grow substantially over time. Blend them together and include it as an ingredient in making fritters – the perfect finger food for snacks and appetisers. You can also toss them into your stock for a boost of flavour.
Eggshells
Don’t throw out eggshells without a second thought. Instead, grind them into a fine powder and sprinkle it over the garden. It gives a boost of calcium to the soil and encourages the healthy growth of plants.
