Before grocery shopping, planning meals can help ensure what?

Planning meals before grocery shopping is an effective strategy that can lead to less food waste and better meal choices. When individuals take the time to plan their meals, they can create a focused shopping list that includes only the ingredients needed for those meals. This targeted approach helps reduce the likelihood of purchasing items that may not be used, ultimately minimizing food waste, which can be costly and environmentally detrimental.

In terms of meal choices, planning allows individuals to thoughtfully consider nutritional needs and variety, leading to more balanced and healthier eating patterns. Rather than relying on impulsive decisions while shopping, which can often result in unhealthy choices, a meal plan fosters intentionality in food selection, ensuring that the items purchased contribute effectively to a well-rounded diet.