Here is a finding that should change how you shop: in Hong Kong, a YouGov poll found that 25% of residents either believe food is unsafe after its "Best Before" date — or aren't sure. That means roughly one in four people in this city is routinely throwing away perfectly edible food based on a label that has nothing to do with safety.

Here's an uncomfortable fact: the average household throws out roughly a third of the food it buys. In Hong Kong, that works out to around 71 kilograms per person per year — and roughly HK$1,700 of food, dollar for dollar, ending up in the bin.

The good news is that most household food waste is driven by a small number of fixable habits. You don't need a composter, a vacuum sealer, or a degree in sustainability. You need twelve small changes, and they'll save you money the same week you start.