Summer is here and with it lots of fresh fruit to sweeten our day! But what happens to the leftover fruit waste that we often thoughtlessly throw away? This can be used up, in this way preventing food waste. This summer, we want to discover our fruity creativity and show that organic peels and similar waste are much too versatile to be simply discarded. Let’s find some ingenious ways to recycle and reuse leftover fruit waste. 

 

Idea 1: Fruity fashion statement 

 

Fruit prints on shirts are extremely trendy. Yes, you heard correctly! With a small amount of paint and fruit that is no longer edible, you can design your own personalised t-shirts. Strawberries, apples, lemons – the possibilities are endless. Simply cut the fruit in half, coat it with some paint and press onto the shirt. There are special fabric paints that adhere to textiles and are very suitable for fruit printing. These are available in a variety of colours and provide good coverage. Voilà! You have a unique fruit motif that is sure to attract everyone’s attention.

 

Idea 2: Lemony refreshment from zest

 

When it’s hot outside, there is nothing more refreshing than a cool drink with ice cubes. But how about if your ice cubes not only cooled your drink but also released fruity aromas? This is where leftover fruit waste comes in! Peel the zest of organic citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes or oranges, and add them to the ice cube tray. Fill the tray with water and place in the freezer. The citrus ice cubes are not only decorative but they also give your drinks a refreshing twist. See here for more tips on drinking the right amount during the summer!

 

Idea 3: That smells sustainable! 

 

But that’s not all! The peel of citrus fruits not only has an intensive aroma but can also be used as an air freshener. Dry the citrus peels and place them in cupboards, drawers or even in your car. They release a natural, refreshing scent and eliminate unpleasant odours in an environmentally friendly way. Did you know? When it comes to the subject of recycling, Dole is a true expert. Dole not only supports the sustainable cultivation and packaging of fruit but also undertakes innovative projects to reduce waste. Dole’s aim is to reduce the waste arising from the harvesting and processing of fruit by 50% by 2030. By then, all salad processing plants should also be operating in line with the “zero waste principle”. In addition, Dole plans to ensure that all packaging can be recycled or composted by 2025. 

 

Idea 4: Wellness moments for fruit fans

 

Bath products are another creative idea for leftover fruit waste. How does that work? Simply place dried leftover fruit waste like lemon or orange peel in a cloth bag and use it as a scented bath essence by hanging the bag on the tap while you fill the bath. Enjoy the fruity scent! Alternatively, you can add it directly to the bath water. These little wellness hacks also make wonderful gifts for your nearest and dearest.  

 

Idea 5: Crunchy topping with vitamin power

 

It’s getting crispy! A fruity dessert topping can be easily conjured up with leftover fruit. To do this, dry the fruit and chop it up into small pieces. This makes a delicious topping that you can sprinkle on desserts like yoghurt, ice cream or cake. It’s equally delicious on salads, porridge, sandwiches or smoothies. Our tip: orange and raspberry porridge!

 

We are completely enthralled by leftover fruit waste!

 

Your Dole team