Ramadan is one of the most important times of the year for Muslims all over the world. It is a time for reflection, prayer and fasting, but it can also be an opportunity to reduce our food waste. Muslims are encouraged to practise virtuous eating habits by reducing their food waste and focusing on sustainability in all aspects of their lives.
This Ramadan, let us focus on mindful consumption by planning meals ahead of time and shopping for only what is necessary, intentional eating and ensuring minimum food waste. This will go hand in hand with moderate consumption; thereby not only will this be an act of ‘ibaadah, but it will also be fulfilling the rights of your body.
Before Ramadan:
Plan how you want your Ramadan to go. If you are living with your parents and/or family, and are used to your parents mainly preparing iftar – why not try something new and plan a handful of dishes that you would want to share with your family and loved ones?
During Ramadan
When grocery shopping, buy in bulk to minimise packaging waste and avoid over-purchasing food that will eventually expire before it can be eaten. Buy local, whenever possible, to help support the local economy and reduce carbon emissions caused by shipping food over long distances.
Wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer, and eat and drink. But do not be excessive – verily God does not love the wasteful ~ [The Holy Qur’an, 7:31]
Another way to reduce food waste is to practise portion control. Portioning out meals into smaller servings can help avoid overeating or throwing away leftovers, leaving more room for creative meal planning in the future with ingredients already on hand.
Eat of the good things We have provided for your sustenance, but commit no excess therein ~ [The Holy Qur’an, 20:81]
Lastly, repurposing leftovers into recipes like soups or casseroles can help reduce the amount of food being discarded.
The Bottom Line
In addition to the Qur’an, many hadiths, or sayings of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, encourage moderation. It is important to have these verses and hadiths at the forefront of our mind as guidance, as not only will this be an act of worship, but will also support us mentally and physically.
In this blessed month of Ramadan, may Allah SWT forgive our shortcomings, grant us good health and allow us to establish habits that are the most pleasing to Him, Ameen!
Stay tuned for our next blog, where Juleyka will be providing beneficial tips on how to have a balanced Iftar during Ramadan.
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