I had done my research, I had my reusable bags, and I was ready for my first zero waste shopping trip. In actuality, I was not ready -- I still had many unanswered questions.
What was more important than feeling ready, was the feeling that I wanted to try. So that is exactly what I did.
My diet mostly consists of pasta, grains, vegetables, proteins, milk, peanut butter, and burritos. Yes, that is the diet of champions.
I was surprised how I was able to find almost all of these items in the bulk section.
If you are not familiar with the bulk section, it is a magical place where they have everything from off-brand Cheetos to cat food. To see what I am talking about, please watch the third episode of Zero Waste World here.
At the end of my zero waste shopping extravaganza, I was astonished when I was able to get 2 weeks of food for less than I usually spent on my normal groceries.
About 20% of a products cost comes from the packaging and marketing, so if you buy something in the bulk section, you are going to save money.
In my zero waste shopping adventure there was a lot I didn't know.
For example, do metal cans have a high impact on the environment? - Yes
What is the impact of glass? - Good and bad
Should I use these bags? - Use what you have
When trying to go zero waste, the important thing is not to be perfect, but instead to do your best. That is what you are, you are the best, so go out and do your best at zero waste shopping as we continue our quest for creating a zero waste world.