Barbara Ingham

Each year, about 40 percent of food supplies in the U.S. are uneaten, wasting at least 160 billion pounds. One source of food waste results from consumers or retailers throwing away wholesome, healthy food because of confusion about the meaning of dates displayed on the label.

Community groups often host food drives at various points during the year to fill local pantry shelves. Donors can enhance the value of their gifts by ensuring the food is safe, nutritious and of high quality.

Students are heading back to school, and many of them will be carrying lunches they bring from home. Home-packed lunches can take many forms: hot or cold, homemade or pre-made from a store.