Robin Gilmer

I will reduce food waste and save money by planning a weekly menu of meals and ingredients for my household of 1.

I will resist impulse buys by eating a snack or meal before going grocery shopping. Those who grocery shop on an empty stomach spend 64% more than not-hungry shoppers.

I will only purchase the items on my grocery list and avoid impulse purchases.

I will sign up for Fridge Check Friday emails, sent by Hennepin County but open to everyone, to prompt me to check my fridge for food that needs to be used up and for hacks on storing food to keep it fresh.

Bigger carts make us feel like we need to fill them! Use a hand basket to improve grocery store discipline and prevent over-purchasing.

I will create a cookbook or recipe collection of go-to meals for my household to make meal planning easier.

I will buy loose produce or food from the bulk section to get the exact quantity I need, instead of buying pre-packed quantities.

In addition to using up my edible food, I will separate and compost my food scraps using backyard composting, curbside pickup, or a drop-off program.