I’m not generally a proponent of wasting food. But I’m here today to challenge you to do a little bit of selective pantry cleansing. This may be a little bit painful – but I’m here to hold your hand (and walk with you to the trash can). You can do this. We’re all in this together.
One of the most difficult things for me to do when we began our Healthy Eating Journey was to throw out and stop purchasing foods that I was able to get for little to nothing with coupons. Skippy Peanut Butter, Hamburger Helper, Poptarts, Rice-a-Roni – these and many more were all frequently in my pantry until six years ago when we began to learn the importance of eating real, whole foods. I shed tears, I got heeby-jeebies in my gut, I grieved my old way of life and way of thinking about “food”.
It was a roller-coaster time for me because at the same time I was struggling to clean out my food stash, I was also excited about eating better. I was thrilled to be learning ways to feed my family healthier foods. I was hopeful about the improvements in our health that came with eating nutrient rich foods, instead of pre-packaged foods that were hurting our bodies.
Why did I think I’d miss boxed mac and cheese when
for the same amount of time and effort, we can have this???
Creamy Mac and Cheese
During that transition, many boxes and bags made their way to our trash can. (It helped when ants got into some open boxes of cereal – praise the Lord for blessings that come in the form of little black pests.) Some of our unopened packages of processed foods were given to our local food pantry. Little by little, I transformed our kitchen.
Some of the main ingredients I was focused on getting rid of right away were: High Fructose Corn Syrup and Hydrogenated Oils. I began reading labels, and if those ingredients were in the foods in my home, out they went. Later, I transitioned our noodles and rice to be of the whole grain variety, then I made changes with our dairy products and meat. Slowly but surely, my kitchen became funky, fresh and healthy.
If you’re on a healthy eating journey, I’d like to encourage you to make just one more change today. Throw out something in your kitchen that shouldn’t be there. (Um, don’t toss your husband’s favorite goodies without asking first – this post is supposed to be inspirational to your health, not detrimental to your marriage.) ;)
Let’s walk together to your food stash. What’s in there that isn’t helping you and your family to be healthy? I’m not asking you to throw out everything that isn’t a real, wholesome food unless you’re absolutely ready to take that plunge. Today I’m just asking you to throw out one thing (or set it aside to give away).
In an upcoming post I’ll share all kinds of exciting information about how to replace those bad-for-you foods with delicious good-for-you foods!!! But today we’re just taking a step toward a Funky Fresh Kitchen by throwing out one thing that isn’t good for us. Picture me (and all the rest of the gang who hangs out here) cheering you on while you do it.
Leave a comment on this post letting us all know what you’ve tossed out!!! Use that awesome basketball ability you’ve been hiding all these years and skillfully shoot those boxes of unreadables across the room into the trash so that you can replace it with something delicious and better for you. Share with us what you’re tossing!!! We want to be inspired by you. (Plus, your comment here will be entered in the drawing for our five $10 Heavenly Homemakers Shop gift certificates giveaway!!)
Hey, while we’re on the subject of cleaning out the pantry (and fridge), I’d love to hear how you’re coming on creating your Funky Kitchen. There are still some $2.00 Funky Kitchen coupon codes to be had…get ’em while they last!
kelly says
been there, done that! It was a little scary at first, but so much better for our family. One of the best things we have ever done. =0)
JenJ says
I cleaned out my kitchen last year, and I’m loving it. Still need to make some changes, but I feel so much better! I’m at my parents house this week, so I can’t really clean out their cabinets LOL. I could just imagine what my dad would do if I got rid of all his fake sugars that he is addicted to. I did clean out their fridge! I tossed 8 packages of tortillas that were out of date. One from last year. Disturbing.
DorthyM says
At the moment I have nothing to throw away. But only because the cupboard is quite bare. This is an eat what you’ve got week. I’m mentally throwing out boxes of mac and cheese though. Somehow we always end up with that stuff in the house although I refuse to buy it.
Lisa says
I bought organic palm shortening today. Then I came home and threw out a half-used tub of Crisco. Yay! Now I need an excuse to make pie crust.
Stephanie says
I set aside to give away my last can of spaghetti o’s this is a huge step as I have been savoring every can. They are my favorite comfort food.
sarina says
hmm got rid of some grape “jelly” – pretty much just hfcs and some food coloring…. i didn’t realize it was way past the expiration date – although it still looked “ok” – i wonder what’s really in that stuff?!?! planning to make homemade jam now!
Kristin says
I must have known this was coming. Just last week I got rid of the straggling unhealthy items, a box of pudding, a boxed cake, some vans of non organic fruit and a whole bunch of expired stuff. I even switched from a plastic spice rack to adorable glass jars…you’d love them!
Tiffany says
I did this 2 months ago. It was actually easy once I learned what was healthy and what wasn’t. When I read the labels on the foods we had I gagged and happily threw it out. Thank you so much for this site and all the info you provide. It has helped us switch to a much healthier lifestyle.
Katie says
I’m going to be giving away the koolaid.
Charity says
Oh, you can make the best smelling play doh with koolaid!
that’s the only reason I buy the stuff! and you don’t have to eat it!
Melisa says
Do tell! What’s the play doh recipe? :-)
Charity says
1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon oil, 1 package Koolaid
1/4 cup salt, 2 tablespoons cream of tartar, 1 cup water
Mix flour, salt, cream of tartar and Koolaid in a medium pot.
Add water and oil.
Stir over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes.
When mixture forms a ball in pot, remove.
Knead until smooth.
Put in a plastic bag and refrigerate.
The only issue I have is with blue koolaid… for some reason it does
not set up as well. anyway, you can also use this to get rid of any
flour or nasty oils you have!
Emily says
It’s so true! I made GF stuff using rice flour for my niece and the blue raspberry smelled amazing!
Tracy says
Threw it all away in one fatal swoop last July. Haven’t looked back and we are soooo much healthier and happier! Popping pocorn in coconut oil as I write this as a late night snack for me and DH. Thanks for the fantastic blog!!!
Dorraine says
I am giving away the 3 boxes of Velvetta boxed mac and cheese! YUK! I want to change our eating habits! Time for a pantry overhaul around here!
Dorraine
Tucson,AZ
Karen Morris says
It was so easy to get rid of some things as we have just started on this journey. Some things are harder though. Skippy for instance is still sitting on my shelf, but the Ramen and other boxed items were relatively easy.
Debbie says
We too did the ‘change’ to healthy eating a little over 3 years ago. The most difficult thing for me to throw out was the condensed soup (especially the Cream of Mushroom and Cream of Chicken) as I used them ALL the time to make casseroles. Since then, I have found recipes for those soups and make them myself WITHOUT the MSG!! ;)
Melody says
A while back I switched from veggie oil to evoo (and now I have some coconut oil waiting in the wings), but today I found a bottle of the veggie stuff had made its back into my cabinets. It’s going bye-bye.
Amber J. says
One of the best things that I have recently gotten rid of and replaced is grocery store syrup…never again!! It’s only the real stuff from here on out. My kids even ask me to bring it along if we are going to someones house and we might need syrup!
carrie says
My husband and I did this about 2 years ago after watching a documentary on food. It was amazing how many things we found in the pantry that we needed to toss even thought we “thought” we were eating healthy. Now we really are :)
Brooke says
Funny you should post this b/c today I threw out about 4 or 5 things that were in my pantry that were not healthy. I need to go through my pantry more, still…
Sharmista says
I did this back in the spring when we went on GAPS. Major overhaul! But, just last week, I found a box of cheerios that was lurking on top of the pantry, way up high in the back where I can’t see! It got tossed immediately!
Hannah says
I really wanted to toss the nesquick, but I went for the bbq sauce and italian dressing instead. I haven’t found a recipe for dressing my husband likes as much as Kraft italian, but now I am on a mission since the bottle is in the trash:) I promise nesquick is really the only thing left that would fail the funky fresh kitchen test.
Bhriana says
my pantry is stocked with mostly good things ~ can’t think of anything I’d toss out. Healthy stuff most of the time makes it easier to permit less healthy stuff the rest of the time :)
Shannon says
Just got rid of my last bag of Korean Shin Ramyun Spicy Hot Ramen Noodles. Last time I tried to eat it I couldn’t do it, but somehow I left it in my cupboard. Not there any longer! Woohoo!
Shoshana Kleiman says
I started over 2 years ago removing “nasty” stuff from our cabinets. The hardest was to throw out the instant ramen soups and instant potato-like add water cups.
Susan Robinson says
What a great idea! It might be hard to totally clean out the pantry all at once, but everyone can get rid of one thing at a time!
Cathy B. says
I’m getting rid of some leftover candy canes and little mints we were given. I’d rather have the space in my pantry and the sugar out!
Heather Lei says
Anything in a box. Although that may have had more to do with the bug infestation. Yuck.
Sara says
I set aside some random boxed food to give away. That was about 6 months ago. I guess I’ll just go right ahead and throw it away. I’m happy to say that our kitchen is generally healthy.
Kristina says
Did this a couple years ago, but now my hubby always complains there is nothing here to snack on. I’m content with some almond butter, bananas, cheese, a piece of fruit, etc. looking forward to your upcoming posts!
jenn foy says
jelly beans. i had a craving today and bought some. now they’re in the trash. thanks for the inspiration!
Margaret says
This will be hard. I already have this sick feeling down in my stomach. It will be like throwing money in the trash. BUT…we need to eat healthier. I am looking forward to the post on how to replace the bad with the healthier.
Tahlor says
Setting aside some Hamburger Helper to take to our church food bank! I had bought a bunch on sale literally weeks before I found this site!!
Brenda says
I tossed a big handful out of the “candy drawer” in the kitchen. I plan to do this every couple of days until the drawer is empty and officially retired!
Nichole Kennedy says
Set aside a box of blueberry muffin mix…why I have that, I don’t know, when you have so many healthy muffin recipes on your site!
Kara says
Bye Bye chocolate flavored syrup!
Beth the mama bee says
Here’s my current new struggle. While I was at home full time (the past 5ish years) with the kiddos we were able to do really well with eating whole foods. I made most of our foods from scratch and we didn’t have the packaged foods. We are part of a meat CSA and grow a nice produce garden and still shop at the food co-op for grains, etc… but here in the last month, I am back to work teaching and the kids are in school. We have lunches to pack, homework when we get home, sports and such in the evenings, my work to catch up on in the evenings, etc. The last three trips to the grocery store I noticed I’ve been throwing some things in the cart for school lunches that I’m not proud of. My kids had never eaten a fruit roll up and now they have a box in the pantry. I always make our granola bars and granola…. we have a box from the store now. I’m seeing a slide back in our eating! It’s a slippery slope. I’m tried last night to make up some granola bars and do some baking for the next few days, but I didn’t get anything else done. I’m going to have to start packing my weekends with prep cooking or something….
Sara says
Bye bye JIF…I’ve loved you for so long…I’m finally ready to part ways…it’s been comforting yet unhealthy.
Kellie says
A few months ago, I found an expired can of vegetable shortening in the pantry. I gladly walked that out to the trash can!
Shannen says
mac n cheese is going
in the trash…..
Mandy B. says
I have been reading labels like crazy and trying to make healthier choices. I threw out breakfast cereal with high fructose corn syrup and “fake” maple syrup. I have bought real maple syrup and it tastes so much better. I also have started to make my own flavored coffee creamers after reading the guest post on your blog from Deliciously Organic! We are buying more fruits and vegetables and I have been putting my bread machine to good use! Thanks for having such a wonderful blog!
Holly White says
Last week we finally made the transition from white sugar to raw sugar. That’s been the biggest one our family has made yet. I’m still working on transitioning out our vegetable oil. So far the budget can’t quite afford the transition.
Jennifer Hogue says
I will be looking over my pantry these next few days. Recently found your site and another whole foods site and am rarin’ to go. I have boxes of rice mixes and cereal, cereal ‘bars’, and lots of other stuff to donate! Thanks for your hard work.
Amy T says
I started cleaning my cabinets out over the weekend because we are getting a new kitchen in a few weeks. I am embarrassed to say I had a jar of corn syrup in there! I can’t for the life of me remember why I would need that stuff. . . But it is now gone for good.
Reading previous posts, I noticed others throwing away vege oil. This item is actually on my grocery list this week.
Should I replace it w/coconut oil? I only use it for baking and already use EVOO for cooking.
Laura says
Yes, vegetable oils aren’t the greatest. :( https://www.heavenlyhomemakers.com/healthy-fats
JanaC2 says
We did this several years ago with the discovery of food allergies… in our immediate and extended family. My nephew’s corn allergy motivated me to read labels and uncovered some surprising discoveries about corn in our food supply. Suspecting my son’s behavior issues were related as well, I began phasing out all corn additives.
Then, my children were diagnosed with severe food allergies to multiple substances and the cleaning frenzy began once again. I blog to keep myself sane and to help make sense of all the conflicting information we as parents are “fed” about our food!
Lea says
I am starting in phases… first the really obvious like Ham. Helper and canned dinners. Then the crisco, canned veggies. I am excited to eat and cook better for my family. We tried the healthy version of Ramen posted the other day and loved it! Thanks for your gentle and reassuring support!
Jes says
We just went shopping last night, so I can’t throw anything out without my husband’s objections. However, we did splurge on real maple syrup instead of the fake corn syrup kind. Does that count?
Joanna S says
Leftover candy is now out the door!!! Had to do it while the kiddos were occupied. :)
Lisa H. says
It’s been so long since I had to toss anything…. I am very blessed to have been eating well for more than 25 of my 48 years.
Do not be afraid to toss and replace with something better. It is like putting off the old man and putting on the new… something the Lord works in us all the time.
Thanks for this very helpful series of posts. I so enjoy your site!
Michelle Y says
I’ve gotten rid of everything with HFCS…except Worcestershire Sauce. I know it’s possible to make you own though…so that’s on my to do list. Then I can toss the storebought HFCS-laden stuff.
Carrie says
I have already gotten rid of a lot, but right now I have ditched normal butter, and switched to organic. It’s an expensive switch becauses I can get the cheaper butter for $1.99 or $2.99 on sale, and the cheapest I can get organic butter is around $5.25 for a lb.
Claudia Kaczmarek says
I am slowly changing my family’s eating habits with the things that are less noticeable like using coconut oil and more natural ingredients. With some pretty picky eaters, slow and steady is the way to go for me.
Julie says
Gonna have to throw away some leftover candy too!
Lisa @ Happy in Dole Valley says
We’re already so far down the road on our journey to better and healthier eating that there isn’t too much that would need to be tossed, BUT I know I’ll find something if I go dig deep. :)
Like you, Laura, we make our own versions of all our old favorites (and we love, love, love your mac and cheese!!).
Thanks for all you do here! ~Lisa
Laurie Plath says
When I realized I had two full cans of shortening in the cupboard, instead of throwing them out, I made goat milk soap, then shredded it and made homemade laundry soap with it.
Mayira says
We’ve been slowly changing over our kitchen, and already gotten rid of most of the unhealthy items.
Theresa says
I read your post, went to the kitchen cabinets and started reading the labels. Oh my, I am shocked of all the things hiding deep in the back of my cabinets. The hardest part was trying to figure out which 1 thing to part with- so I decided to throw them all out. I found a box of cake mix (not sure how long that has been there), 3 boxes of popcorn, a box of breakfast bars and a jar of light corn syrup (we didn’t cook with the corn syrup, we needed to keep this on hand when my ferret got really ill. But now that she has passed, I’m not really sure why I was holding on to it.) Thank you for this post and guiding me in the right direction:)
Crystal says
Great to see so many comments! The only thing left in my pantry is Joe’s O’s cereal for those mornings I need help and saltine crackers for an easy snack!
Pat says
I have been on my journey for a couple of years and it seems everyday I learn something new. I finally got rid of the Chicken Bouillon Cubes. They were full of MSG and even polyunsaturated fats. Your site is wonderful and chalk full of very valuable information. God Bless!
Beth @ Turn 2 the Simple says
I think the last thing that needs to be tossed would be pretels — they are just such a quick easy snack for the kids that grab and go and last in the purse well…any ideas that don’t require me to make a new batch every couple of days? I make everything else from scratch.
Rhonda L says
I wish I could say that there wasn’t much in my pantry to throw out but unfortunately there’s plenty! We are low on money for the moment so we’ve been eating better as we can and using the rest up slowly…but I did look before work this morning and yuck! Soybean oil in a pudding mix!!! What’s that about?? Anyway, that craps gone and never returning!!!
Thanks for the encouragement Laura! I’m definitely going to be reading labels much closer now!!!
Mary says
The only yucky thing I have left are saltiness carckers… Out they go!
Angela says
Thanks for the prompting. I have a shelf of do not eat foods. I have been meaning to take them to a local food bank but haven’t gotten around to it yet.
Felicia says
I have tossed Cisco, corn syrup, hamburger helpers, white fours, white and brown sugar, cake mix, and can of spaghetti o’s. Oh my, I have more to do, but i’ll get there.
Heather in Michigan says
mine was salad dressings and sauces on the fridge door. Old, old, old. I make salad dressings now and they get eaten (yum!) before they ever have a chance to get old!
Jessica says
Thanks for the inspiration… I feel like I am living half way… to healthy… need to take that extra step
Laura says
I have some microwaveable instant mac cheese packets that I will not eat, they were given to us and I am going to give them to the food bank.
Carey L says
We’ve been trying to purge and replace for a few months now, but this post prompted me to grab a few things that have been hanging out and just cut them loose!
Gail E says
I’ve been able to cleanse our pantry shelves of everything that shouldn’t be there except for the cans of mushroom soup (my husband’s favorite go to fast food). He refuses to settle on anything else yet…I’m gently working on him, but he’s stubborn so it will take time.
ms.p says
why not try to make your own homemade cream of mushroom (doesn’t take any longer then open the cand and heating)
Heather says
I got rid of my favorite marshmallow fluff . . . no more fluffer nutters!
Holly says
Ok Laura, the crisco and marshmallows are going in the garbage! Thanks for the prompting today!
Debra H says
I found a box of very old (expired in 2006) microwave popcorn. Disgusting! Now – gone.
Kristi says
We have completely transitioned to this healthy lifestyle. It took us 3 years to completely transition. So, I do not have anything left to throw out which is good :). YEAH!!! I love the idea of taking it slow though – it is more encouraging that way. :)
Tiffany (As For My House) says
Thanks for the nudge – we’re moving, and needed to thin out, anyway!
We mostly don’t have much of that stuff around anymore, but I did find a cake mix, a box of Hamburger Helper, and some instant sauce mixes that were really full or ick!
Lauren says
I’ve been getting Skippy Natural peanut butter for a while now. It doesn’t have any hydrogenated oils or corn syrup. It does have refined sugar, though. Not sure if we’re ready to take the step to more expensive pb…and my husband doesn’t like it if there’s not a little something sweet in it. ;-)
As for what to get rid of…How ’bout the leftover “instant breakfast” mix that I bought years ago? It’s long been removed from its original packaging, but I imagine the ingredients aren’t fun! Maybe I’ll give away the free hot cocoa mix that I got last winter…
Kristy @ Little Natural Cottage says
Oh my! How well do I remember my first pantry cleansing! I felt SO overwhelmed by all the changes I needed to make.
Five years and many baby steps later, I can honestly say that our kitchen is “funky, fresh and healthy”!!! ;-) And it feels so good to have it that way!
I love these posts, Laura- you are an inspiration!
melanie says
I know there are boxes of JELL-O and pudding mix in there. And corn syrup. :p But those are for rare occasions.
In the mixing bowl right now it’s 7-grain cereal, rolled oats, fresh-milled whole wheat flour with butter, honey and brown sugar => soon to be shaped into bread. Some of it I will give to our 77yo friend whose bday is today.
Soooo, while I still buy some Skippy, I also have a bucket of EastWind in the fridge.
Here a little, there a little ;-)
melanie says
Oh, and following the bread with a double batch of YOUR
butterscotch cookies with HOMEMADE butterscotch chips :D
If it’s a hit with the family, the fake chips can GO!
Holly T. says
I am unable to part with my Costco-sized box of Goldfish crackers for fear of backlash from my 4-year-old and 2-year-old. (I know I should try to make my own little cheesy crackers but haven’t gotten there yet. I’m cutting myself some slack since I’m 9 months pregnant.). I’ve gotten rid of canned Spaghettios, boxed cake mixes and NutriGrain bars.
Maura says
Goldfish crackers are fine. Go easy on yourself. The main items are the packaged and prepared food full of hydrogenated oils, corn syrup, sodium, sodas, MSG, etc. If you are feeding you family lots of fruits and veggies, then by all means let the kids have Goldfish as a treat. We do and have no guilt in it at all. Relax!
Amanda says
When and if you get around to trying some goldfish substitutes — definitely not now or with a newborn :), this recipe is good: http://goodcheapeats.com/2010/09/cheddar-coins-aka-healthy-cheez-its/
It says they taste like cheez-its, but they reminded me more of goldfish crackers. Plus, they’re easier to make than most crackers because you slice them off.
Victoria says
This is hard for me. We are already down to little to nothing (food and cash). I currently recieve food stamps and this is our funds to get food. (My paychecks are less than $100/wk & the bf is self-employed so his pay is different on a daily basis, so we rely on food stamps.) Plus I have 2 people in the house who are not happy and refuse to give up their favorites. I’m allowing time so it can sink into their heads that I will no longer be buying junk, processed, sugared, and refined foods. I’m making my menu plan for the whole month since we do rely on food stamps and that only comes around once a month. Mind you I have 8 mouths to feed. I get $600 in food stamps. Any suggestions grocery shopping?
Laura says
I’d focus on buying ingredients, as opposed to buying pre-packaged foods. If you buy brown rice, beans, whole grain pastas, whole wheat flour, raw sugar, eggs, cheese, fruits, veggies, butter and the like – I think you’ll be able to stretch the $600 and buy great, whole foods that you can do all kinds of yummy things with!!!!
april says
Rice-a-Roni — you are so phony!!
Katelyn Lee says
I’m throwing out our bleached sugar and replacing it with evaporated cane sugar. I can’t bring myself to buy sucanat yet. It’s just sooooo expensive. But we’ll get there :)
Samantha Marshall says
I threw away a lot of condiments…ketchup, salad dressings. I am slowing making my own at home!
Kristi says
I am still in the process of converting my family after just learning about all this in May. They are slowly coming around. My hubby is the most reluctant. I have been able to throw out jell-o, cake mixes, ramen noodles, corn syrup, canola oil, etc. But he still has Kraft macaroni & cheese and some Pringles he won’t part with. I’ll leave them there until he is “convicted”. :) My 4 year old daughter loves marshmallows. The ingredients in those are nasty. I have to come up with something better for her. I’m definitely working on it and have limited how often she can have them.
Lisa says
Shortening!!!! See-ya, crisco!
Stephanie says
Everything white…rice, sugar, flour and even table salt. That was the start of us eating healthy. Now it’s on to canned foods…fruits & vegs.
stephanie says
Our journey began several years ago when I realized the ritz crackers and cereal I was feeding my baby was actually making him sick. Once we figured this out we switched over to fresh fruit and veggies for most of our snacks and added in our own homemade nut mix as our kiddos grew. We still eat not so good stuff on occasion, but we stress that it is not good to eat those types of food all the time because they do not feed our bodies. We are hoping to bring our kids up with a healthy balance and one that they won’t run away from once they leave our home.
Christa says
We’ve switched from corn oil to strictly olive oil for cooking and canola for baking.
Kristi says
Hmmm, throwing out what we’ve already bought is hard to do! I’m using up what I have, and am making an effort to buy more basic ingredients to cook from scratch. For our family, we aren’t headed towards an all-organic path, but we are making efforts to use more whole grains, eat more fruits and vegies, eat less sugar, etc.
Kristi says
I was much like you 9 years ago with all of the coupon food…..I grew up a junk food junkie and really didn’t know any better until I moved from CO to CA and my Pastor and his wife ate differently. I was still in denial that my food was bad but eventually more info came out….I researched things to death…my first change…the symbolic moment was going from Skippy to all natural peanut butter. I just did it….nobody knew the difference and nobody complained….now I am an organic, wheat grinding, raw milk drinking lunatic and wouldnt ever change back. Love your blog….I talk about you like I know you when I share information….we are BFFs you know…..
Jessica M. says
I know! When I tell my husband stuff I say “Laura at Heavenly Homemakers
says…”. Like I just talked with her on the phone! I showed him the website’
so now he understands :)
McKinsey says
I’m guilty too of referring to Laura as my best buddy. I tell my husband, “This is how
Laura does it!” Maybe we should start a Laura Fan Club lol!
Kristin W says
I just threw out some old Kraft “Free” salad dressing. What is IN that stuff anyway?! Ick!
Maura says
chemicals and sodium
Lisa M says
OK – I just placed 5 of the “Blue Box” Mac & Cheesees in the box for the food pantry…. Just can’t let the kids see it….. But I’m ready to try your creamy mac and cheese!
Erin S says
We’ve been on the healthy eating journey for over a year but things still occasionally sneak in the pantry. I really need to get rid of the Ritz and Wheat Thins and try a few cracker recipes I’ve been saving. Thanks for the gentle push!
Lisa says
My hubby and I used to eat Hamburger Helper quite often when we were first married. Now 17 years and 4 kids later, it’s not my idea of a healthy meal. I had one lone box of Cheeseburger Macaroni (our favorite!) in the cupboard. I have no idea how long that box sat in there until one day I finally decided I’d fix it and the kids would have something they had never had. I looked at the expiration date…….. It was 3 years past! yuck. So my children were saved from eating garbage. It all turned out good in the end. Now I don’t even go near that section of the store.
Alyssa says
I’ve given away a lot of the pre-packaged flours, white sugar and store-bought jams/jellies, but I have a hard time reconcilling “being a good steward” of my resources when I willingly waste things I’ve spent money on. I’m working on the “once they’re gone, replace them with homemade or something healthier” plan… :)
Shannon says
Nothing too unhealthy in there though I have a bag of split peas from 2 years ago that I will throw out.
Amanda says
I fished out the Jell-o. I’m pretty sure I can turn that into a preschool craft though…I bet that stuff would be good for painting or something. I’m not going to lie though, there’s a box of brownie mix in there that I’m keeping (I promise my kitchen isn’t as bad as this is making it sound!).
Shonda says
I felt the same way too, but I like that I’m finding similar old favorites on websites like yours. Thanks for transforming our eating habits!
Amanda says
We have been making a lot more from scratch over the past year, and I wasn’t sure my kids were wild about it until I made a box of hamburger helper casserole mix for supper last week. They didn’t even want to eat it! I suppose the rest of that will be going to the food pantry.
Colleen says
Hi Laura! Love your site!
I remember that time VERY well as it was just a few short months ago. I, too, started by pulling out all of the things that had HFCS, hydrogenated oils and ANYTHING with SOY and GMO corn!!! My son helped and we did it one bag at a time. We choose to donate all of the food to a local food bank around the corner from his school. While not the best stuff for people to eat, I figured there were people without any food who would appreciate it.
Here I am, 4 months later, with none of the aforementioned products in my pantry – all of it having been replaced with coconut oil, ghee and organic versions of everything. I still struggle weekly to make food that tastes good to my family that is also healthy. It’s a shame that chemicals taste better than real food and we have to re-teach our palates what “REAL” food tastes like.
Martha says
Okay…after much trepidation and desperately reading this over and over again, I threw out a brand new (never opened) economy size bottle of pancake syrup–I hated reading the label of what is in that junk! All I could think about was that it cost so much at Sam’s club. Then all I could think about was how good our new bottle of pure maple syrup will taste on our waffles and pancakes. I also threw out the 10 pound bag of enriched bleached flour. I have since replaced it with 100% whole wheat flour that I got from a local organic wheat farmer. Thank you for the hand holding…
Cristina says
We live in south Florida where summertime means hurricanes, so from June to November we keep some emergency non-perishables around. This unfortunately has included ramen noodles and chef boyardee! It pains me to throw out food, but since our mail carriers have food drives twice a year, instead of serving these foods I will set them aside for their next drive around Thanksgiving.
susan says
i should get rid of my mac & cheese boxes, and i have some lard that i bought that was partially hydrogonated :-( i was so dismayed when i saw that.
Rhoda says
Slowly we are making the changes. I’ve always preferred to make things from scratch like my mom, but we still have a way to go. Our biggest nemesis–the Korean noodle soups (think SPICY ramen) we buy that are remniscient of some Vietnamese foods for our adopted children from Vietnam. Don’t know if it is a blessing or not that I can’t read Korean and actually know what the ingredients are!
Rachel Maier says
Thanks for the challenge! I’m tossing the sugar free, fat free jello pudding.
It used to be my husband’s go-to dessert (he has an insatiable sweet-tooth, but doesn’t like to eat helping upon helping of refined sugars and fats every night…). About two weeks ago we were talking about how we can make our pantry (which is almost 100% stocked with organic, whole ingredients) even MORE healthy, and he finally said that he’s ready to give up his weakness–the sf, ff pudding. I promised him I’d find a healthy alternative that he’d enjoy just as much, and I did! (I’m sure many folks know about this already, but we made chocolate peanut butter banana “ice cream” by blending frozen bananas with peanut butter, cocoa powder, a sprinkle of sucanant and a splash of milk. Blend until desired consistency–we like ours thick like ice cream.
Buh bye, Jello Pudding. Hello healthy treats.
Sarah S says
our pantry shelves have been pretty healthy for a couple years now, but I did go through my fridge and threw out lots of old food…but joy of joys, It didn’t go into the garbage-we threw our stuff to our two pigs!! :-) They were very happy…. :-)
Kelly says
Yup, I got the marshmallow fluff, too. Sigh.
Kathy McConnell says
I’ve thrown away a box of keylime bar mix, a box of lemon mix, 2 bottles of snowcone syrup, 4 or 5 boxes of crystal light drink mix, a slim fast snack bar. Most of these have been in my cupboard for more years than I care to think about. Thanks for the inspiration to throw them away. I guess my husband isn’t the only pack rat in the family. Have a great day everyone! God Bless : )
Sara says
I got rid of hot cocoa mix, bisquick (which is labeled “heart healthy”!?!), metameucil (of all things), and cappucino mix that was just going to sit there forever anyway.
McKinsey says
A year ago is when I found your site Laura. I really feel like God led me to your site to change our path to better health. I can’t tell you how many bags of trash we had each week that was full of boxes upon boxes of frozen pizzas, cans of ravioli, soups, rices, cereal, fruit snacks, cheetos, soda cans, etc….An unreal amount of JUNK. Now half of our garbage is composted because of all the veggies and fruits we eat. I haven’t bought a loaf of bread since last october, we grind our own grain, we found a great beef supplier of grass fed beef, I buy raw milk from a mennonite lady three miles from my house, I have a food co-op I buy from monthly. We aren’t 100% organic because here in TN organics are super expensive unless you grow it yourself. But I do as much as I can afford
God is good!!!
Cher says
began the healthy foods journey a few years ago. Thankful to be able to shop my love through feeding my husband healthy whole foods. Thanks for your blog.
Hayley says
First of all, love your blog :)
I’ve been doing this “real” healthy eating for a few months now, but I am ashamed to say that I still have some Crisco in my fridge…that’s getting tossed as soon as I hit the door!
Jen says
I tossed out some instant potatoes!
Michelle says
Choosy mothers toss Jif.
Julie says
I have been doing the same things. We try to eat as healthy as possible. My 15yo son is having the biggest problem with it though. He dislikes everything healthy. My 2 daughters have caught on well though. I have two others (son, daughter) that struggle but not as much as my older son.
Anyway, I feel guilty about giving the junk to a food pantry. I know this stuff kills us and makes us unhealthy so why would I give it to the less fortunate? But then I think, something is better than nothing. Right???
Rachelle says
I’m tossing out a box of cookie brownie bars. It’s one of the last things in my pantry that I’ve been hanging on to. They are so good!
Stephany says
I just so happened to be going grocery shopping today (making sure all that went into my cart qualified as healthy, wholesome, REAL food. When I came home to put things away I had to do some rearranging and decided to toss some things I had been holding onto (welch’s strawberry and grape jelly, hersheys chocolate syrup, canola oil, old olive oil). I was a little sad about the waste but I know this is a step that must be taken in order to eat more healthy and feed my family more healthy foods. Thank you for walking us through these steps. Now I am off to work on week 3 and 4 menu planning and grocery lists. Have a blessed day!
Lyndsay says
Our family has always bought in bulk at the local Sam’s club. Before we started really eating healthy, I made sure I had things like boxed mac and cheese, spaghettio’s, etc to make when we needed a quick meal. Then, this summer, we started really planning what we would put in our bodies. I gave in the other day and tried to feed my two youngest a quick lunch of spaghettio’s so we could get out the door for something. They wouldn’t touch it! I plan on giving the rest of those, plus a lot of our other canned and boxed foods away.
Carrie says
I got rid of Crisco too.
Tiffany says
I honestly don’t need to toss anything, but wanted to encourage others to take the plunge :)
You will never regret feeding your family healthy meals from scratch…you all will feel better physically and feel great about yourself for taking the best care you can of what God has blessed you with!
Jenny C. says
I have been struggling with wanting to toss a jar of store-brand raspberry jam for a few weeks now (which contains HFCS). Laura, you’ve given me a good excuse to take the plunge! I made 6 small jars of strawberry jam this summer. I guess we’ll eat that until it runs-out and then I’ll find a more healthy brand of jam to use until I can make more next summer.
Thanks for the inspiration!
Carmen says
I really need to toss the doritos that are in our pantry – those things are awful (in terms of healthy/natural).
Jessica says
Several years ago when we decided to eat even better than we were, I stopped buying anything with high fructose corn syrup and artificial food coloring. I also threw out canola oil and replaced it with palm shortening or coconut oil.
teresa says
Going to toss out some chips.
Jennifer Morbeto says
It began shortly after my firstborn. He was born with kidney disease. It began with homemade baby food, then as he began to eat table food, nothing with high fructose corn syrup and food coloring, as well as an assortment of other food products that were a no..no for him. We too began to eat more vegetables, make everything homemade, and then now in the last few months, he was also diagnosed with allergies. (He is now four) No gluten, no dairy, no soy. Boy, was that hard. No butter, no margarine, everything you could possibly go naturally and organic. Out goes bought ketcup (we were buying the one without high fructose corn syrup, salad dressings, and a lot easy packaged baked items, etc. Over the years we have become very health conscious of not only him, our other two children, as well as ourselves. Everything we make is homemade. I love your website just for that! God Bless!
Lyn says
There is nothing more motivating than a hurricane that puts out the electric to clean out the fridge. :) We were able to salvage our freezer items thanks to family. However, the fridge items had to go. On the positive side, my fridge is so nice and clean!
We eat pretty healthy; not all organic as it’s just too expensive here. I do cook from scratch though, and that is a big part of eating healthy I think. It’s something that most people can do, even if in small batches here and there when time permits.
Heather says
I just tossed out a box of some kind of instant noodly type thing that someone gave me…it was expired and not something we’d eat these days so it headed out the door!
Heather
Linnea says
I’m going to toss some Coke Zero. It’s actually in the fridge because my mom likes to drink it, but I have moments when I’m tempted to have a little. (I just miss that fizzy burn!) But I shouldn’t drink it, especially since I’m pregnant, and she shouldn’t either… ;)
Melissa says
We purged our kitchen and pantry a year and a half ago when we decided to cut out all refined sugar. I had a hard time throwing unused things away. I bagged them all up and determined not to use them, but my husband was the one to finally get the bag in the trash. He’s the best, very suportive, even when he’s not 100% convinced. :)
Debbie says
Refined sugar stays, only because my husband does not care for the sucanat the rest of the family used. I just finished our Mayo today and am thinking that maybe it is time to start making it on our own. Also, ran out of dishsoap and dishwashing detergent this week and we are experimenting with making it on our own. When we ran out of ketchup, I tried making it on our own and was never fully satisfied, so for now- I think that we will just be sticking to Hunts (that is hfc free) unless I find a better brand that the family will eat. We made the switch to making our own nut butters a while ago and now it seems foreign to have a jar of peanut butter around the house.
Kristy says
I am tossing my bag of pancake mix, because, really, it’s not hard to make better pancakes from better ingredients!
Denise says
Ugh! So much to throw away! I started by throwing away an old box of hamburger helper.
Shannon says
I just did this last weekend. I feel so much better knowing that my family is eating only good, wholesome foods that are doing good in their bodies. I was a saddened a bit, as well, but it was very worth it. I gave all of my packaged foods to neighbors in need and/or want. I am not to judge, so if they choose to eat it, I prefer to give it away rather than toss it.It is such a small step, but so very empowering. Anyone that wants to take this path and doesn’t know just where to start, this is a great first step!
As for my “funky” kitchen…I have to say that I too am a fan of jars. Quart sized mason jars to be specific. I cleaned out the cabinets (see above) and put all of my *good* ingredients into jars, with labels of course – I sway to the OCD side. :-) I was amazed at just how much room I have in my cabinets after all the junk was purged! I am a full time student with three children and a husband with a non traditional work schedule. I cook on Saturdays to prepare meals to freeze. That being said, my freezers look just as “funky” as my cabinets.
It is such a blessing to know that I am in the company of others striving for the same good for our families!
Stephanie says
Where do you find the time to make all your meals? Some days hot dogs is just the best I can do. What do you feed your family when you’re pressed for time and just don’t have time to make from scratch?
Love your blog!
Deb says
Threw away some Crisco and Truvia sugar. The sugar came in a cute little container. I am going to keep that; I’m sure I can find something else to store in there. I’ve been slowly changing over from the processed foods I used in the past. My husband really enjoys his snacks but for regular meals he basically eats what I put in front of him. If he doesn’t like something I never make it again, but I’m glad to say he’s generally easy to please. My next project is to wean him off of canned soups. So far I have three homemade soup recipes he absolutely loves. I just need to make ahead and freeze so he can have it whenever he wants. Love the site, by the way!
Cassie Musick says
I have shopped at Whole Foods for nearly 6 years now, and although I mostly buy whole foods, I do purchase some processed foods as well. I try to steer clear of buying processed foods, even from Whole Foods, but I don’t feel as bad when I do because WF does not sell anything with hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, or artificial colors or flavors. Now, when my family eats the “other food” (when we visit family), we can tell a difference in the way that we feel.
Melissa H says
I’m throwing out croutons, salad dressing, and a WIDE variety of other things!
Priscilla F. says
Yeah, it hurt a little to get rid of some things, but it helped to have a weevil infestation that MADE me clean my pantry. And what were those weevils eating? My healthy wild rice and dry beans. They wouldn’t even touch the white rice and other so called food items. We indulge on chips every so often, and keep a few not so great items on hand (marshmallows, rice crispys) for that “have to take something and be there in 1 hour dessert” sort of thing. A little more work to cook healthy? Maybe, but when you get in the swing of it, and PLAN AHEAD it’s not bad, even with a 3 yr old, 1 yr old, and one on the way, needing food NOW! Even banned the microwave to the basement a yr ago, thought I’d never make it, but haven’t missed it at all, and food tastes SO MUCH BETTER HEATED NATURALLY! Again, PLAN AHEAD.
Suanna says
The only thing I could find at this time is a box of cake mix, that I purposely bought last week to make for my daughter’s birthday. Things have been so hectic around here that I didn’t feel like I will have a chance to make a cake from scratch. The icing will be from scratch though.
Amber S says
I have cut many processed foods and preservatives, but I got FREE coffee creamer- disgusts me when I read the label, but tastes so good! I will start making my own- get rid of the fake liquids!
sarah says
I just did this a few days ago! The church did a housewarming party to me and hubby (the new minister) when we moved here, and I just couldn’t bring myself to throw out those gifts! Many were donated to the food pantry, some were eaten (confession), and I just threw out some peanut butter, fruit gelatin, pudding, and icing. The icing was pretty painful, but I know how rotten I’ll feel after eating all that sugar anyway.
Jaime G says
I just tossed Jiffy Biscuit Mix. It was painful until I read the ingredients list…ugh!
Ruby says
I’ll throw out the sugar free jello that’s probably past the the date anyway…yuck!
Ruth says
I just tossed a box of Ghirardelli chocolate muffin mix. I almost went in after it thinking that I could make this one last box and then never purchase another box. Oh the pain!
The Chick @ Fat Chick Fed Up says
I recently tossed my canola, corn and vegetable oils as well as shortening. Happy to say my pantry is now well-stocked with organic coconut oil!
Rose says
Tossing marshmallows and kool-aid.I have also tossed the ranch dressing a few months ago because I have been making the Heavenly Homemakers BRAND….We LOVE it! Thanks for your site and information !
Erin S. says
Potato chips! We had several half full bags leftover from easy summer lunches. They are awful for us, I know.
Wendy M says
Did our quarterly cabinet cleanout for the food pantry at church. I got rid of a huge bottle of ketchup and some short dated stuff I know we won’t consume. I filled a box with this and some other items that I used coupons for, to get free stuff for the food pantry.
Kelli Green says
We recently did the “pantry dump” and it felt so good! Even more so because we gave a lot of it to a family in the neighborhood that is unemployed at the moment. They were so grateful and were even inspired to start eating healthier when they are more financially stable.
Donna says
I see that someone said they tossed their truvia…I hate that stuff! The stevia in it is so bitter. I stopped using sugar altogether about 2 years ago, and now only use USA made, birch xylitol. My son (and I) haven’t had any problems with oral health since making the switch, and my kidney functions and blood sugar levels have both stabilized thanks to the xylitol. Question: Is cold pressed olive oil and peanut oil healthy? Those are the two I use sometimes, instead of my coconut oil.
Laura says
Olive oil yes, peanut oil – I’m not sure but I’ve not heard of it being on the healthy list. :)
Linda says
I’ve been doing this very gradually. So every time I pull out a can or box of something from the pantry, I will use it but I will look for how to make it myself the next time. So far, I haven’t found anything I can’t make myself!
crystal says
I did this last weekend. I threw out bisquick, cheese its, cheese nips and cookie mix.
Rebecca C says
I’m waffling on the cream of mushroom soup b/c I haven’t found a good substitute for the few recipes that call for it (my military son’s favorite dish, so I HAVE to make it when he comes for a visit!) There are not too many items in my pantry that need to be tossed, but I’ll commit to getting rid of the last of the canola oil instead of using it up.
Rebecca C.
Malissa C. says
Your post could not have come at a better time! I have been struggling with feeling bad about feeding my family items that I now know are not good for our bodies, but not wanting to part with my stockpile :) Thanks for giving me the encouragement to just take the plunge and donate the food! I am donating so much food that it would take too long to write it all here – let’s just say it is my three-months-worth-of-food stockpile!
Katie says
I have also been doing this over time and have stopped buying lots of items like cereals and snacky foods. Great post to encourage me to do more!
Rebecca says
I have tossed/donated quite a bit the past several months… Hamburger helpers, margarine & vegetable oils, Jif peanut butter…
I was a couponer as well before making the switch to healthier eating and it is still hard for me sometimes… just to actually spend money on our food. It’s worth it though!
Maura says
I was also a hard-core couponer before making the switch. I was spending only $200 a month to feed my family. I got so much free and cheap food…if you can call it food, that is!! We make a lot from scratch nowaway and buy whole, natural foods. I now spend about $500 a month on groceries. It is hard to go from $200 to $500 as that is $3600 more a year on food. But, I know it is an investment into our health.
C Dazey says
Husband posting here on behalf of his wife…I took a short trip through our pantry, and have to honestly say that I am so blessed by my wife’s efforts over the past couple years to switch our family over to healthy, REAL food. While our pantry is not perfect (whose is???), it was such a blessing to see so many real ingredients and options on the shelves!
Thanks for the encouragement you provide to her each day!!!
Kristine A says
Thanks for the challenge. I have been making some small changes and we have been enjoying many of your recipes!
I filled a bag for our church food bank.
Valerie Ringuette says
I just got my wonderful hubby to agree to get rid of the potato chips!! This is HUGE ladies!
Brighid says
That balance between food that’s been extruded and time/money can be hard. Like so many readers, we’re working on it!
tealady3 says
I do use coupons but no longer use them on food,because it is all basiclly junk food.So now I use them on toothpaste and other care products.
I myself love a well stocked organized pantry
Amber says
I toss holiday candy – chocolate easter bunnies, lollypops, etc. that well meaning friends and relatives give the kids.
savedbygrace says
Thank you for the extra push- I filled 4 bags to take to our church pantry- slowly making the transition!!! Thank you for your encouragement, wisdom and time invested in this ministry!!!
Jill Roper says
I got rid of 4 things. Thanks for the challenge.
Lorinda says
I’ve been making small changes in the pantry.
White flour hasn’t been here in several years, and Ham.Helper in 9 years. Thank you for sharing how you care for your family.
Meg says
We eat mostly whole foods but I do keep one cupboard full of my husband’s favorites, unapologeticaly stocking goldfish crackers, processed peanut butter, special K, splenda and more. He loves the way I cook and he eats at the table happily but I see no reason he can’t make his own choices and keep on with the processed stuff if he wants it. This has been our happy medium and when I see him opting for his green smoothie every morning I know it works for us! :)
Wendy Hawkinson says
Soy products! They are just bad for you. I had no idea until my son was diagnosed w/ autism and soy was one of the allergens that was in the top 3 to avoid. It’s so hard–soy is in everything.
Thank you so much for the coconut oil tip. We had to get rid of canola and vegetable oils (bad bad bad)and coconut is awesome!
Janeen says
I’ve been much more careful about what types of food I purchase. I used to get hamburger helpers for next to nothing, but I haven’t bought one for a very long time! Hooray for for small steps!
theluckykiwi says
I love this idea, and I’ve been trying to do the same thing in my kitchen. Instead of buying boxed or frozen entrees, I started learning to make my own. Learning proper cooking technique and studying other chefs has really been rewarding in terms of being able to provide my family fresh, unprocessed, local food. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this, if you feel like checking it out (and maybe joining me?): http://theluckykiwi.wordpress.com.
Jen says
Two and half years after making the switch to healthy, whole foods, I’m FINALLY throwing away the 2 bags of butterscotch chips I’ve had since my couponing days! The “best by” date is November 2009. :) I’m trying your recipe soon!!
lyss says
I guess one of the only processed foods we buy is boxed cereal. I know, I know. We mostly just eat it on Sunday mornings, because cooking just doesn’t work for me on Sundays! I used to make granola often and I need to get back to it. Maybe when the weather cools!
One thing I am going to just throw away is a stick of margarine leftover from making treats for VBS. I hate to throw away food, but I haven’t wanted to use it, either! You’ve reminded me it’s not worth eating.
Laura S says
I’ve been tossing out the fake food gradually for about a year now. Meals I have pretty much covered with cooking from scratch, but snacks are hard for me. It’s so easy to pick up a bag of snack mix at the store to have in the car on the days we are shuttling from school to an activity. I’m working on it though, slowly but surely.
Kirstin N. says
I threw away 2 packages of diet iced tea mix. Don’t even know where they came from! Amazing what you find in your pantry when you really look!
Jennifer T says
Boxed mac & cheese is my challenge ~ my kids love it (of course) and it’s such an easy go-to lunch when I’m busy. I don’t have any remaining to throw out, but I’m challenging myself to stop buying it. I will try your mac & cheese recipe this week, trusting it will convert all of us :)
Kelly Phillipson says
Tossed out the organic kid bars (because their first ingredient was organic sugar).
Karen says
I just tossed out a big bucket of candy!
Andrea watts says
We tossed out egg salad
allie zirkle says
we cleaned out our panty a few months back, blessing others with lots of cereal and snacks.
Tiffani says
Our store-bought canned food is being replaced by food I’ve home-canned myself over the last few weeks. It’s awesome!
Patricia Hinshaw says
my pantry is my secret garden, it has a locked safe of no distruction. Im the only one who enters. I’m partial to what stays and what goes or needs updated. I love making my own spices. by the way I homesschool and I’m passing this on to my daugher, whose also health conscience.
Stacy Gelinas says
A little story about our journey…
Here’s to wishing I would have done this sooner… We have been making our way to healthier options over the last few years, but to my horror and heartbreak not soon enough for my oldest daughter. She was diagnosed with non-celiac gluten intolerance this summer… I know it is not life threatening but in my mothers heart I know it is related to the packaged and processed foods I bought and fed her. It has a bright side though!!! She has lost a healthy amount of weight in the last few weeks, has tons more energy, and she used to complain about hurting all the time (mainly her lower back, which we now know wasn’t her back it was her digestive system!!) it has been a great transformation, and we are almost enjoying the transition and trying new foods!!! God is so good to us!!!
Lyn @ Life Lyn Style says
I just got done cleaning out and taking inventory of our freezers. They weren’t so bad. I did find 2 boxes of Gu Gurt. The pantry is 50% done. It’s hard to throw away food, but then at church today someone asked me about helping someone out. Now, I have a home for many things.
Jean says
I stopped using artificial sweeteners a while ago. It was one of the last things to change since I have been diagnosed with diabetes and thought I needed them. Anyway, I still had quite a few bottles of diet iced tea with lemon in my pantry. I emptied them in my laundry room sink and put them in the recycle bin. So glad they’re gone and it made room for 6 quarts of grape juice I canned last week! :o)
Susan Alexander says
Gosh, I’m really not sure what to throw out right now… We are just at the start of REALLY trying out a healthy eating habit and most of what I have in my pantry that is “not good” is either for the kids or something that my husband usually dearly loves (and has agreed not to eat for now). So… I hate to say it, but I think it all stays for now! Post this again in December and I may have a different take! ;)
Valerie says
I just threw away a jar of brightly colored gum balls that have been in our pantry since last year Christmas. I have made changes towards more real food several years ago.
Elizabeth Ginter says
I’m slowly replacing the processed foods in our pantry for healthier versions…its one of the reasons I started following this blog! Thanks for all the encouragement, Laura!
Stacy says
We already eat mainly real foods, but I did find some candy that I had stashed when my children brought it home from church (seriously, why do people feel compelled to give our children junk all of the time?!).
Patti says
I’m so glad I have found this site! I’ve been trying to do some of this on my own and not quite making it! My husband loves his sweets and his boxed cereals. He also only wants turkey(deli) sandwiches for lunch! Any suggestions? We have switched to organic raw sugar and honey to make most of the sweets, but I’m stumped on what to do to change the rest!! HELP!
Laura says
Here’s a series I wrote on Simple Steps Toward Healthy Eating which might offer some suggestions! https://www.heavenlyhomemakers.com/category/simple-steps-toward-healthy-eating