Cut plastic waste from your food shop

Simple ways to reduce plastic waste food and shop more sustainably

Louise Tompkinson

September 16, 2019

 

How your food choices impact plastic waste

Earlier this year, I attended a seminar on marine litter and waste plastics, run by Geoff Brighty of Plastic Oceans UK. It was quite the eye opener!

I learned that 8 to 12 tonnes of plastic ends up in our oceans every year and, due to the action of the sun and waves, this is broken down into tiny particles known as microplastics. These are often mistaken for food by marine life, causing harm and allowing toxins to enter the food chain, of which we are at the top.

The presentation sparked my curiosity and, after watching the full version on Netflix, it ignited my passion to make a difference.

Rethinking unnecessary plastic

Plastic is deeply embedded in modern life. As David Attenborough said, “It’s absurd to suggest we can do totally without plastic, but there are so many areas where we use it without a thought.”

Focusing on these areas in everyday life can help reduce unnecessary plastic use without increasing costs, and can even reduce food waste with better planning.

Zero waste refill shop

Making simple changes at home

Store cupboard

I recently discovered Zero Store, a zero waste pop-up shop. I now refill jars with essentials and plan to switch to refillable cleaning products.

Meat and fish

I’ve subscribed to a monthly meat box from a local butcher. While not completely plastic-free (for food safety reasons), packaging is minimal. I’m also considering a sustainably sourced fish box to reduce meat consumption.

Fruit and vegetables

I receive a fruit and veg box from Abel & Cole, which uses mostly recyclable or reusable packaging. I’m also exploring my local greengrocer for more control and to support local business.

Food waste

Previously, food waste went into my general bin. I now use a worktop compost bin with biodegradable bags and compost at home. A wormery may be next!

Dairy

I’ve subscribed to Milk & More, which delivers milk in reusable glass bottles. They are collected, cleaned, and reused, helping reduce packaging waste. Other items like eggs and butter also come in recyclable or compostable packaging.

 

How can you help?

To summarise, here are some simple changes you can make:

  • Use a greengrocer or subscribe to fruit and veg boxes
  • Choose delivery services with reusable or recyclable packaging
  • Buy meat from local butchers
  • Start composting food waste at home
  • Shop at zero waste or refill stores
  • Use reusable cups for hot drinks
  • Carry a reusable water bottle

 

Small changes, big difference

By making small, practical changes to how we shop and manage food, we can reduce plastic waste and lessen our environmental impact.

I’m now starting to explore more sustainable options for clothing and toiletries—keep an eye on the recycle-more blog for more updates.

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Louise Tompkinson, and do not necessarily reflect the views of recycle-more, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.