What is one action individuals can take to contribute to reducing food waste?

Planning meals ahead is an effective strategy for reducing food waste because it allows individuals to make more intentional choices about the food they purchase and prepare. By creating a meal plan, individuals can accurately estimate the quantities of each ingredient required, leading to more efficient use of resources and minimizing excess food that might otherwise go unused. This proactive approach helps in preventing impulsive buys that can lead to purchasing items that may not be consumed before they spoil.

Cooking all ingredients separately might not directly address food waste, as it could still result in leftovers that aren’t used up. Purchasing more processed foods often leads to the opposite effect, as these items can contribute to increased waste due to packaging and shorter shelf life. Disposing of food leftovers is counterproductive to reducing waste as it involves throwing away food that could potentially be repurposed or eaten at a later time. Overall, planning meals ahead creates a structured and mindful approach to food consumption that effectively minimizes waste.