Here are some tips that I have learned about how you can lower your waste when grocery shopping. It is important to note that you should use what you have first and try your best instead of striving to be completely zero waste.
1. Bulk Bins
Purchasing items from bulk bins can help you reduce waste because you are only buying what you need. If the store does not allow you to bring your own containers in you can try to reuse the container or bag they offer.
2. Buy items in bulk
Buy items in bulk that you use often when you can’t find them package-free to reduce the amount of packaging.
3. Purchase produce package free or use reusable produce bags
4. Ask the deli or bakery if they can put meat/baked goods in a reusable container if you bring one.
5. Plastic bag “recycling program”: Sometimes plastic is unavoidable and there are ways to extend the life of plastic. If you end up with items in plastic bags or packaging see if your grocery store has a plastic film recycling program. However, an important note is to not put soft plastic or plastic grocery bags into the garbage can. Since many recycling facilities aren’t equipped to handle soft plastics.
6. Bring reusable shopping bags
If you use reusable bags remember to wash or clean them regularly.
7. If you can’t purchase items package free or by using reusable containers try to find items in aluminum, glass, or paper packaging.
8. Make a shopping list
Make a list before grocery shopping and stick to it.
9. Avoid overbuying
Only buy what you will eat to reduce food waste and save money.
10. Milk: Some milk brands come in jars that you can bring back to the store to be sanitized and reused again. However, I have learned that plastic milk jugs are the lesser evil compared to milk cartons. Since milk cartons are made up of a mix of plastic and paper. It is hard for recycling facilities to recycle them and not everyone’s recycling facility near them accepts milk cartons.
11. Start a Garden
If you are interested in growing your own food this is a great way to save money and reduce waste long term. Even if you don’t have a yard you can try growing food in pots on a balcony or windowsill. I would do you research to see what is the best food to grow depending on your climate.
12. Shop at farmers markets
Shopping at farmers’ markets allows you to support local farms and know where your food is coming from. Some farmer’s markets are also starting to accept food stamps/EBT to make access to fresh produce more affordable and accessible. If you are using food stamps/EBT you can check your local area to see if this is an option.
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on how people or stores can help reduce waste. I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas.
