With the transforming nature of modern life, we take everything for granted. The globalization of the world has allowed us access to commodities and products from all around the world. Products that are gathered through intricate technological mechanisms devised through the course of the last century. This increasingly mechanical nature of product collection has made us distant from our actions’ reality and consequences. One of the most significant areas where this distance reflects itself is in the food industry.
Arguably, the most significant impact of increased globalization has come forth in the form of an expansive culinary exchange worldwide. Dishes that were once limited to specific regions are now available widely across the globe. Even though this has been a progressive step in global harmony, it has added a significant layer to the input that goes into food creation. Realizing the value of the input that goes into the creative process is integral to adopt a sustainable approach in terms of food. Humans are increasingly indulging in food waste with produce because everything seems so abundant in supermarkets and general stores. However, this reflection is deeply flawed.
Realizing the value of life and respecting, it is essential to mend the broken relationship humans currently have with the species around us. Whether it is other animals or plants, sustainability stems from realizing other creatures’ importance and respecting their sanctity. Even though food consumption is a primal human requirement, there is a strong need to realize the importance of respect throughout the process.
According to a recent research study conducted by the United National Environment Program, just in the United States alone, 1.3 Billion tons of edible food is wasted every year. This staggering figure reflects the accurate scale of the devastation of food waste in just the US alone. Research indicates similar statistics on the global end, with estimates suggesting food wastes making up to 21% of the overall waste stream. This astronomical amount of food waste truly reflects most people’s disdain for the ingredients that go into their food production.
There seems to be an inherent insensitivity towards the effort and energy it takes to cultivate the ingredients that go into everyday consumables production. One of the most prominent examples comes in the form of the meat industry. These industries often resort to unethical tactics for maximum output in animal production based on animals’ mass-production purely for consumption.
Even though it is a globally accepted fact that animal protein has been an integral part of a balanced human diet since the dawn of humanity and balanced protein diets will remain a staple of our diet for ages to come, it is essential to take a moment to realize and respect the life that goes away to provide us with our required nutrition and sustenance. Every time we consume meat, we are taking away a life. Respecting the sanctity of that life is essential to develop a culture of caring for the living being on earth and maintaining a respectful relationship with the world around us.
A significant part of that respect comes in the form of adequate meal preparation and putting in the effort to ensure that the meals’ portion sizes equate with the hunger levels of the people consuming the meat. As a staunch believer in the principle of respecting life and food on a broader level, my efforts are concentrated on creating the best out of every single ingredient that goes onto the plate of my customers.
The Importance of Meal Preparation in Building A Culture of Sustainable Food Consumption
Meal preparation helps create a culture of sustainable food consumption by helping you plan out a balanced diet ahead of time. This allows you to get on top of your macros and sustainably plan your consumption of animal and plant-related nutrients from your meals. This preparation is also a great way to save money by planning out your purchases and dietary behaviors ahead of time.
Today, with the information we have about the dietary impacts of different meal types, it is vital to put in the time to devise the right meal plan ahead of time so you are prepared ahead of time, saving you essential time and cost.
Further breakdown of meal preparation often includes the number of meals per week, macros’ division into proteins, carbs, and fats. Dividing the consumption of meals into veggies and meats and balancing out the mineral and vitamin contents to get the optimal output level out of your diet. Even though your diet’s specific details depend on your personal fitness goals, having the discipline to plan ahead allows you to adapt a sustainable approach while respecting the sanctity of the food you are consuming.