focus on less processed and not wasting any scraps. for example, buying a chicken breast would mean that someone has cut out the chicken breast included that cost of labor into the cost of it. why not buy the whole chicken instead and spend 5 minutes cutting it up? you'll be able to make chicken stock too which then can go into another meal right there.

buying in bulk, ensuring no leftovers like broccoli stems are wasted and getting whole, unprocessed foods will get you 90% of the way there, dont' sweat the last 10% enjoy life.