Going Green (For Less
Green) at the Grocery Store
by Kimberly
Danger
These days everyone wants to do the right thing for our environment.
However, looking at the prices of organic groceries can make the most
well-intentioned shopper abandon her eco-friendly ways at the checkout
lane. You can go green and save money at the same time. Here are some cost effective yet simple ways to be kind to the
environment as well as your budget.
Buy in Bulk
Not
only is individually wrapped food more expensive, it is usually full of
preservatives. By buying in bulk you’re getting more product for the amount
of packaging needed. You also typically get more for your money. Make sure
you properly store things when you get home so they stay fresh. Buying too
much product and not using it is counterproductive.
Pass on the Plastic
When
asked “plastic or paper?” at the checkout lane, say neither. Most grocers
today either sell reusable grocery bags or offer incentives for bringing
your own bags. Pass on the plastic bags in the produce aisle, too. You
really don’t need them.
Ditch the Disposables
Use
cloth instead of paper. This principle doesn’t just apply to diapers, but
any paper product that may be on your list: paper towels, paper plates,
plastic dinnerware, etc. If you must purchase paper products, look for
those made out of recycled paper. Skip the aluminum and plastic wraps and
instead use reusable containers to store food instead (margarine tubs, mayo
jars, etc.). If you buy paper coffee filters, invest in a reusable one made
of fabric. The fabric helps to absorb acids in the coffee resulting in a
better coffee.
Consume Less Meat
The
United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization reports that livestock
production is responsible for more climate change gasses than all the motor
vehicles in the world. Beef production is notoriously bad. No, you don’t
have to become a vegetarian – simply reducing the amount of red meat you
consume can help greatly. Plus, replacing the meat in your diet with more
sources of lean and vegetable-based protein doesn’t only help cut expenses –
it is a part of a healthier diet.
Organics
Organic fruits and vegetables are grown with natural pesticides and
fertilizers such as compost but can cost twice as much as conventional
produce. In certain cases you can get by with the non-organic version where
the peel is less permeable and less pesticide is used. Avocadoes, onions,
asparagus, pineapple and mangoes are all examples of “safe” non-organic
produce. Save your organic food dollar for foods like peaches, strawberries
and potatoes that are more likely to have pesticide residue.
Locally Grown
Local farmer’s markets are a great source of affordable produce. You’re
supporting the local economy, plus, the environmental cost of transporting
the produce long distances is eliminated. Inquire about buying blemished
produce at a discount or shop at the end of the day when farmers are more
motivated to move merchandise to get the best deals. When you find a
bargain, stock up! Preserve their seasonal goodies by canning and freezing
them for later use.
You
don’t have to plow under your entire back yard to give gardening a try.
Start with a few containers on your patio or some fresh herbs or garlic in
your window box. You can always branch out from there – pun intended!
Only Buy What You Need
Eat
up those leftovers! Although wasted food is biodegradable, it can take up
landfill space. If you must dispose of food, consider composting it.
You’re composting when you allow organic things (such as food scraps) to
decompose naturally -- resulting in a rich soil. You can make a small
kitchen composting container to keep under your sink.
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