Consumables
Consumables are a good place to start when trying to eliminate plastic and minimize waste. Each grocery trip can seem like a huge challenge so here are some tips to help you feel encouraged while avoiding single use plastics.
BUYING BULK
Buying Bulk is a great way to reduce your waste - bring your own bag or container (get the tare weight prior to filling jars or containers) and buy bulk products at reduced prices because you are not paying for packaging and you are helping the environment in doing so. Bulk also helps keep us away from processed foods by purchasing staples and basics with limitless options.
CONDIMENTS
Trying to buy condiments that are only packaged in glass, ideally with a metal lid.
PRODUCE
It is discouraging how pervasive plastic is in the produce section, there are some simple ways to avoid the plastic.
Pack your own produce bags, instead of using plastic, put your produce in reusable cotton produce bags.
For fruit invest in cotton mesh bags.
To extend the life of your produce purchase The Swag Bags.
For herbs consider a pop of green in your kitchen and try a countertop herb garden.
Many things like lettuce, spinach, kale, and salad mixes are packaged in clamshell or plastic packaging. These single use plastics containers are terrible for the planet and can be avoiding by purchasing loose greens and placing them in your own cotton produce bags.
REFILL STATIONS
There are many stores like Whole Foods that offer refill stations within their store. This is a great way to stock up on shampoos, conditioners, lotions, peanut butter, orange juice and more.
SHOPPING THE PERIMETER OF THE STORE
Processed foods are not typically a good source of nutrition, the planet and our health benefits from whole based foods. The best way to achieve this diet is to shop the perimeter of the grocery store, this is where the fresh foods are located. By shopping the perimeter of the store you are avoiding many unwanted additives and preservatives.
TERMINOLOGY
Tare weight - the weight of an empty bag or container. This weight is removed from the weight of a product you are purchasing in bulk or that is loose (i.e. grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc.
VIDEOS & CLIPS
Where Your Plastic Ends Up- The Story of Plastics | The Story of Stuff Project