By Josephine Agbonkhese

Repurposing food scraps like fruit and vegetable peels into delicious bites can be one interesting way to reduce food waste in your kitchen. Aside impacting the environment, this choice can also reduce the strain on your finances and personal well-being. Here are three easy zero-waste snack ideas you should try.

1. Dried Mango Peel Chips
   Mango peels are often discarded but can be turned into a delicious, nutrient-rich snack.

Ingredients:
Peels from 2-4 ripe but firm mangoes (washed thoroughly)
Optional seasonings: chili powder, Tajín, lime juice, honey, or cinnamon (to taste)
1 tsp olive oil or coconut oil (optional, for crispiness)

Equipment:
Oven or food dehydrator
Baking sheet (if using oven)
Parchment paper

Method:
-Wash mangoes thoroughly.
-Peel using a vegetable peeler or knife.
-Remove any excess fruit flesh for a cleaner chip.
-Place peels in a bowl. Toss with olive or coconut oil.
-Season with chili powder or Tajín for a spicy kick, lime juice for tang, honey for sweetness, or cinnamon for warmth.

Bake: Spread peels evenly on a baking sheet. Preheat oven to135°F (57°C) or the lowest setting.
Bake for 8-12 hours, flipping halfway until crispy and golden brown.
For dehydrator method, set dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dry for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy.
Let chips cool completely.
Can be stored in airtight container for up to 1 month.

2. Crispy Potato Peel Chips
   This snack idea helps transform all your potato peels into crunchy, savoury chips perfect for snacking.

Ingredients
Peels from 4-6 potatoes, rinsed and patted dry
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or garlic powder

Method
Prep Peels: Ensure peels are clean and dry. Toss with olive oil, salt, and optional spices in a bowl.
Bake: Spread peels evenly on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Serve: Cool slightly and enjoy immediately.

Crispy Banana Peel Chips
Banana peels are edible and can be turned into tasty, zero-waste snacks too.

Ingredients
Peels from 3–4 organic bananas
1–2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
Spices: salt, pepper, paprika, or cinnamon (optional, from bulk bins)
Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice for tanginess

Method
Prep Peels: Wash banana peels thoroughly and pat dry
Cut slices into thin strips.
In a bowl, toss peels with oil, a pinch of salt, and your choice of spices (e.g., paprika for savory, cinnamon for sweet). Add lemon juice if desired.

Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread peels evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Let chips cool completely to crisp up. Store in a reusable airtight container.