6 Fruit and Vegetable Peels You Should NOT Throw Away

by Maria Konou
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According to research, nearly 20 percent of fruit purchased each year is thrown in the trash. This happens because we have a habit of throwing produce peels away without asking ourselves if we could use them for something more useful. The most logical thing to do is to throw away the peelings of fruit and vegetables because we are taught from a young age that they are waste. However, that is not really the case. There are some fruit and vegetable peelings that we are better off not throwing away because they are very useful and can be beneficial for a number of things. Scientists have found that the peels of some fruits and vegetables are good for our health, and we can use them in several different ways to get the most out of them. What’s more, many of the antioxidants in fruits and vegetables are in the peel or the core! Of course, before you do anything with the peels of delicious vegetables and fruits, make sure they are well-washed. Now, let’s see which peels you should NOT throw away:

There are some fruit and vegetable peels that are beneficial for a number of things

what to do with fruit and vegetable peels

Why You Shouldn’t Throw Away Fruit and Vegetable Peels

#Kiwi peels

Kiwi peels contain three times more antioxidants and fiber than the fruit itself. What’s more, the kiwi fruit peel has powerful anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The skin of the kiwi is actually absolutely safe to eat, so the next time you are making a fruit salad, make sure to include it for those extra nutritious benefits!

The kiwi fruit peel has powerful anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties

fruit and vegetable peels as fertilizer

#Potato peels

Unpleasant at first glance, the potato peel contains about half of the dietary fiber. In addition, it contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamin C. What’s more, potato peels contain many antioxidants that protect against early aging, heart disease, and the appearance of cancerous tumors. And potato peel extract is recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes, as it reduces sugar levels. You can boil the potato peels with other food scraps to make delicious homemade vegetable stock. Or you can also bake the peels in spices to make crispy potato skin chips!

Potato peels contain potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamin C

what can you do with vegetable peelings

#Banana peels

Banana peels can really benefit you tremendously. They have astringent properties that can be extremely helpful for your stomach problems and bleeding wounds. You can also apply them in the presence of bruises and contusions. It is enough to simply rub the affected area with the inside of the banana peel. They can help you relieve the swelling significantly. Also, use banana peels as a natural exfoliant for the neckline, body, and face. They also work wonders in removing warts. In addition, you can soak the banana peels in water overnight, to make the most amazing natural plant fertilizer for your indoor plants.

Banana peels have many diverse benefits that can help you tremendously 

what can i do with fruit peels

You can actually use banana peels as a natural exfoliant for the neckline, body, and face

vegetable and fruit peels as a novel source of antioxidants

#Pumpkin peels

Pumpkin peels contain a good amount of zinc. This fruit peel can also help you fight fungal infections and parasites. Moreover, the high amounts of carotene have powerful anti-cancer effects. The minerals zinc and copper that are found in pumpkin peels can help control acne and brighten dark spots. So, make sure to save these peels the next time you are making creamy pumpkin soup.

Pumpkin peels contain a good amount of zinc that can help control acne and brighten dark spots

fruit and vegetable peels good for you

#Garlic peels

Like many people, you probably throw away garlic peels without a second thought. However, they are an excellent remedy for supporting heart function and preserving youthfulness for longer. You could safely make tea from the scales of the onion or garlic. Or, you can add them to vegetable stocks and soups! Another great idea is to dry the garlic peels, blend them, and use them as a spice!

Garlic peels are an excellent remedy for supporting heart function and preserving youthfulness 

what to do with peelings

You could safely make tea from the scales of the onion or garlic

uses for fruit and vegetable peels

#Orange peels

Orange peels have many different uses around the house. They can be used as a teeth whitener, a natural sponge, to polish wooden surfaces, and many others. You can also eat orange peels since they contain good amounts of vitamin A, folate, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and calcium! Plus, this fruit may help prevent and manage chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Orange peels contain vitamin A, folate, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and calcium

how can orange peels be used

Orange peels can also keep your sugar jar lump-free

are orange peels good for the garden

Here are some ways to make the most out of these fruit peels

do i peel my fruits and vegetables before juicin

These were all the fruit and vegetable peels that you should not just discard. There are many ways for you to limit your food waste, while still getting amazing benefits from fruits and veggies!

Now you know which produce peels can be reused in many beneficial ways 

what to do with fruit peelings

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Maria Konou

Maria Konou is a specialist in the field of digital marketing and fashion. However, she has always had a way with words. That’s what led her to her dream job here at Archzine. She has worked in many different fields over the years, but according to her, being an author has been the most rewarding. Maria is a huge plant enthusiast, loves everything fashion-related, is very sustainably aware, and is always open to learning about new things.