Chloe Zhang
Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, and the production and disposal of plastic packaging contribute significantly to this problem. The food industry relies heavily on plastic for packaging and parceling, but there is a growing awareness of the need for sustainable alternatives. This article will explore the challenges and solutions for individuals and businesses seeking to reduce their plastic waste, including practical tips for parceling food without resorting to plastic.
How to Parcel Food Without Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reusable bags | Using reusable bags made of cloth or paper to carry food |
| Reusable containers | Using containers made of glass, stainless steel, or silicone |
| Beeswax wraps | Using beeswax wraps to cover food |
| Vegan wax wraps | Using vegan wax wraps to cover food |
| Organic cotton bowl covers | Using organic cotton covers for bowls |
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What You'll Learn
Use glass jars and containers
Glass jars and containers are a great way to store food without using plastic. They are free and easy to find at charity shops or thrift stores. You can also reuse any glass jars you already have at home, such as old pasta sauce or pickle jars. If you're purchasing new ones, you can take them to bulk stores and weigh them before filling them with dry goods like nuts, beans, or rice. Alternatively, you can use reusable produce bags and decant the goods into your jars when you get home.
Glass jars are perfect for storing dry goods in your pantry, such as grains, legumes, pasta, and baking supplies. They keep the food fresh and visible, so you know what you have in stock. You can also use glass jars in the fridge for storing leftovers, such as sauces, soups, or cooked vegetables. If you're concerned about the environmental impact of producing new glass jars, it's important to remember that you can reuse them indefinitely, and glass is recyclable, so they won't contribute to plastic waste.
Glass jars are also useful for meal prepping and taking lunches to work or school. You can find glass containers with airtight lids that will keep your food fresh and spill-proof during transport. Glass jars are microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them convenient for reheating and cleaning. If you're worried about the weight or fragility of glass, you can opt for lightweight and durable glass containers designed specifically for lunch boxes.
Another benefit of glass jars and containers is their versatility. You can use them for storing non-food items as well, such as craft supplies, bathroom essentials, or office items. This helps reduce clutter and keeps your items organised and visible. Glass jars are also great for storing liquids like homemade sauces, juices, or smoothies. You can find glass bottles with airtight lids or stoppers that will keep your liquids fresh and leak-proof.
While glass jars and containers are a great plastic-free alternative, it's important to note that they may not be suitable for all situations. For example, young children or people with certain disabilities may find glass containers too heavy or fragile. In these cases, other plastic-free options, such as stainless steel or silicone, might be preferable. Additionally, when using glass containers, it's important to handle them with care to prevent breakage, especially when reheating food in the microwave or cleaning in the dishwasher.
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Choose stainless steel lunch boxes
Choosing stainless steel lunch boxes is a great way to reduce your plastic waste. Stainless steel containers are completely plastic-free and can be a worthwhile investment, as they are durable and long-lasting.
PlanetBox, for example, offers plastic-free stainless steel bento-style lunch boxes. Klean Kanteen's Rise Food Box collection features lightweight, low-profile food solutions made with certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel, food-grade silicone, and a chip-resistant Klean Coat® finish. These boxes are also microwave, oven, and dishwasher-safe, making them a convenient and sustainable choice.
Bentgo also offers eco-friendly lunch boxes made from premium-grade stainless steel, free of BPA materials, helping you reduce your carbon footprint. Their products include durable glass and stainless steel containers in various sizes and colors, providing versatility and style for your food storage needs.
When transitioning to stainless steel lunch boxes, you don't need to rush out and buy new items immediately. Take your time to explore options that fit your needs and budget. You can also start by using glass jars, which are easily accessible and affordable, before investing in stainless steel options.
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Make your own food from scratch
Making food from scratch can be a fun and satisfying way to reduce plastic waste and cut down on food waste. It is also often cheaper than buying pre-packaged food and can be healthier, as it allows you to control the ingredients and avoid additives. Here are some ideas for making your own food from scratch:
Bread and Breadcrumbs
Making your own bread can be a rewarding experience and a great way to save money. You can turn any stale loaves into breadcrumbs, reducing food waste.
Soft Cheese
Skip the plastic tubs of ricotta and cream cheese by making your own batch of delicious spreadable cheese.
Herbal Tea Blends
Instead of buying tea bags that may contain plastic, try mixing your own herbal teas.
Vegetable Stock
Keep a container of veggie scraps in your freezer. When you have enough, simply add water and seasonings and let it simmer to make a delicious, healthy, and free vegetable stock.
Hummus
Hummus can be easily made with affordable, shelf-stable ingredients like chickpeas, olive oil, and tahini. You can even experiment with adding other vegetables like beets and avocados.
Pasta
Making your own pasta can be impressive and enjoyable, especially with a pasta maker. You can also buy dried beans, chickpeas, and lentils in bulk, soak them overnight, and cook them to make cooked legumes. Any extras can be frozen in glass jars.
Granola
Making your own granola allows you to choose your own flavors and know exactly what goes into your granola, which is essential for those with food allergies or specific taste preferences. It can also be much cheaper than buying granola bars.
Remember, you don't have to make everything from scratch to reduce plastic waste. Start with the options that are quick, easy, and satisfying for you, and gradually explore other options as you feel comfortable.
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Use reusable bags
Using reusable bags is a great way to reduce unnecessary plastic waste. You can take them to the store and fill them with produce, or use them to store food at home. There are many types of reusable bags available, from those made of organic cotton to silicone, and they can be used to cover bowls or as an alternative to plastic clingfilm.
Reusable produce bags are a good option for shopping, as they can be taken to bulk stores and filled with dry goods, which can then be decanted into glass jars at home. Glass jars are an excellent way to store food without plastic, and they can often be found for free at charity shops.
If you're looking for something more durable, stainless steel containers are a great option. They are plastic-free and should last forever, making them a worthwhile investment.
Another option for reusable bags is beeswax wraps. These can be moulded around food using the heat from your palms, keeping your food fresh. Vegan wax alternatives are also available.
Finally, when it comes to liquids, switching to reusable bottles made of glass is an option. This way, you can avoid plastic juice containers and opt for refillable glass bottles instead.
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Opt for silicone stretch lids
Silicone stretch lids are a great alternative to single-use plastic wraps. They are crafted from premium food-grade silicone, making them durable, washable, and reusable. They are also versatile, fitting various shapes and sizes of containers, from small bowls to large pots, and can even cover partially cut fruits and vegetables.
These lids provide an airtight seal, keeping food fresh for longer and reducing food waste. They are easy to use, transport, and store. Simply stretch and cover your food container, and you're good to go! No more struggling with cling film or fiddly clips.
Silicone stretch lids are also economical. By prolonging the freshness of your food, they help reduce food waste and save you money. Additionally, you won't have to constantly replace missing lids or buy plastic wrap, aluminium foil, or expensive storage containers.
Silicone stretch lids are an excellent choice for those seeking a greener lifestyle. By opting for these reusable lids, you are taking a step towards reducing waste and embracing sustainability. They are also microwave, freezer, and oven-safe, making them a convenient and versatile option for your food storage needs.
Overall, silicone stretch lids offer a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to parcel food without plastic.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to avoid using plastic when packing food. You can use glass jars, stainless steel containers, beeswax wraps, silicone stretch lids, or organic cotton bowl covers.
Taking reusable bags to the store and buying products without packaging or in bulk are great ways to reduce plastic waste.
You can store food in glass jars, stainless steel containers, or plastic-free containers.
Glass jars and stainless steel containers are suitable for freezing food.
