Since there will be smaller Thanksgiving gatherings due to the pandemic, that means the chances of food ending up in the garbage may be higher this year. 
 
That's why the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) came up with some tips to make sure you don't waste your food this holiday. 
 
The USDA estimates the average American family of four loses about $1,500 each year due to food that's left uneaten.
 
If you are having a smaller than normal gathering, considering preparing only the favorite family side dishes, or cut the recipes in half. 
 
Save the scraps for future cooking
 
-While you are preparing dishes, save the scraps for the future. For example, use meat trimmings and vegetable peelings for soups. 
 
Be creative with your leftovers
 
-Extra rolls and bread that are getting stale can be made into bread pudding. Try your hand at making homemade turkey stock with the bones, or make turkey chili with leftover meat. Whip extra buttermilk or cream into French toast batter. 
 
Store or give away leftovers 
 
-Place food in clear containers marked with the contents and date. That can increase the chances that the leftovers in the fridge will be remembered and actually eaten. If you have guests who want leftovers, let them choose their favorite dishes so that their takeaway food containers match what they will really enjoy. For example, guests who only like white turkey meat would likely waste a leftover drumstick or wing.
 
Donate to your local food bank
 
-If you end up with extra cans of food after your feast, consider donating them to your local food bank to help those in need.