How do we prepare food?

A good diet is important for our physical and mental health, however, many people lead busy lives, so they don’t have time to plan and cook nutritional meals every day. Consumers needing quick meals quite often resort to ready meals, which may not be very nutritional and may be high in salts, fats or sugars. Manufactured food normally has a knock on impact to the environment as they are packaged in plastic trays, foil trays, cellophane and cardboard.

It is important for consumers to know how to prepare food safely and to explore ways of preparing and disposing of food waste in a way that will lessen the impact on the environment.

Food preparation

The way in which we choose and prepare food can have an impact on sustainable consumption. In this section, the way in which waste caused from food should be dealt with is also considered. Read more

Methods of food preservation

There are various ways in which food can be preserved but it is essential that guidelines are followed on food packaging or any appliance used in order to ensure food safety. Some foods cannot be frozen, smoked or pickled, but the packaging should provide information and advice on storage. Read more

Cooking food

Consumers have a choice of the different types of fuel they choose to cook with but whether it is gas, electricity or microwave, it is important to follow manufacturer guidelines and cooking instructions on packaging. This will ensure that food is prepared as it should be and that your home and family are kept safe. Read more

Eating out and festival meals

Many consumers enjoy eating out with family and friends, either to celebrate a special occasion or for a special treat. Eating out can also be good for the local economy. On festive occasions, consumers also tend to buy special food and drink to celebrate. It is important to consider which food choices to make when eating out or treating ourselves to a special or luxury food for a festive occasion. In this section, the cultural needs, dietary requirements and ethical standards that are linked to eating out and festive meals are (...) Read more