Plan Your Meals: Plan your meals in advance to avoid overbuying ingredients and ensure that everything gets used.
Buy in Bulk: Purchase items like grains, legumes, and spices in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
Choose Seasonal and Local Produce: Opt for seasonal and local produce, which often has less packaging and a smaller environmental footprint.
Use Reusable Containers: Bring your own reusable containers to the grocery store and farmers' market to reduce the need for single-use plastic bags.
Compost Organic Waste: Set up a compost system for fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic waste. This reduces the amount of food waste going to landfills.
Make Broths and Stocks: Use vegetable scraps, bones, and leftover herbs to make homemade broths and stocks. This maximizes the use of ingredients and adds flavor to your meals.
Repurpose Leftovers: Get creative with leftovers by transforming them into new dishes. For example, turn roasted vegetables into a frittata or use cooked grains in a salad.
Choose Sustainable Protein Sources: Opt for plant-based proteins or choose sustainably sourced meat and seafood to reduce the environmental impact of your meal.
Mindful Portion Control: Serve reasonable portions to avoid food waste. You can always go back for seconds if you're still hungry.
DIY Condiments: Make your own sauces, dressings, and condiments to control ingredients and reduce packaging waste. Store them in reusable containers.