Challenges of solo cooking and food preparation costs

A social media user on Weibo, Clownyx, has highlighted the difficulties and unexpected costs associated with cooking at home while living alone. Despite the common assumption that home cooking is more economical than ordering food via apps, Clownyx reported that the expenses can nearly double due to the need to purchase bulk quantities of vegetables, meats, and various seasonings that exceed a single person's immediate needs.

Beyond the financial aspect, the user noted significant time commitments, estimating at least 90 minutes daily for grocery shopping, food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. Challenges such as food spoilage from unused ingredients and the logistical burden of defrosting food or managing meal prep often make food delivery a more convenient and practical choice for those living solo.