Final answer:
An older adult living alone can avoid food waste by planning meals, using leftovers creatively, buying local and seasonal produce, and choosing whole, minimally processed foods. Being flexible with meal planning and mindful of portion sizes also contributes to sustainable consumption practices and overall wellness.
Step-by-step explanation:
An older adult who lives alone and only has access to larger packages of food can best use food wisely and avoid waste by adopting sustainable consumption practices. This includes buying food with thought, cooking with care, and being mindful of portion sizes. Planning meals can also help in making sure that nothing goes to waste.
To use food wisely, incorporating leftovers into new meals is a practical approach. Buying local foods helps in reducing carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation. In addition, choosing seasonal produce can aid in ensuring freshness and sustainability.
It's also beneficial to consider the nutritional content of foods, opting for whole and minimally processed options over heavily processed foods, which are often less healthy. By being flexible and creative with food, an older adult can maximize the utility of the food they purchase, preventing waste and contributing to better health and a more sustainable environment.