Food Shopping, Done Better

Recently, I’ve found myself walking around supermarkets completely aghast with the unnecessary amount of plastic used to package food, particularly produce. Bagged carrots, apples, oranges, even bananas, to name a few. Sure, some are packaged to maximize freshness and for safety, but a lot of this is unnecessary, so it’s up to us to vote with our dollars and minimize our waste.

So, how can you shop more responsibly and plastic-free?

• First, walk past those plastic produce bags. Instead, invest in reusable, cotton mesh produce bags. Not only will they help prevent more plastic from being put into our oceans, but depending on the store, you may also save up to $.10 each by bringing your own bag. To ensure I’m never without mine, I am investing in another set and just bought these Simple Ecology bags from Amazon.com (note Amazon aff link: https://amzn.to/2M7dNm2). That way, I will keep a set in each car, along with my reusable shopping bags.
• Now that you have your own produce bags, skip those bagged fruit and vegetables and shop loose produce. This is a great way to be more realistic with your eating habits, buying only what you need, plus selecting which you want – I know I’ve bought a big bag of apples, for example, only to find some really bruised ones that were inedible.
• Don’t be afraid to fill those reusable bags up! They fit a lot, are very durable and washable, too. While the cashiers may not love it, I try to fit all of my fruit and veggie haul in my bags, so they’re better organized when I’m unpacking at home.
• Just a heads up that it may require some research to see which store’s selection is best. For example, I find Whole Foods’ produce section to be much better than Trader Joe’s, so I’ve adjusted our shopping habits accordingly.
• Don’t forget about farmers markets and the importance of shopping local. You may be lucky enough to have one year-round, but if not, I know I’m counting down until our market returns this spring (and will remember my bags!)!
• Reuse your produce bags beyond the supermarkets – when you’re traveling, reach for these bags, instead of a plastic bag, to store snacks, utensils, water bottles and more!
• Lastly, don’t beat yourself up if you find that your only option for something you need comes in plastic. Focus, instead, on all the progress you’re making in other areas, as small steps add up!

While shopping waste-free certainly requires you to break out of your old habits, once you’ve made that shift, food shopping can be done easier and better.