One of our goals, as a family, is to live in an environmentally friendly way. We find that we have to take baby steps – changing one little thing at a time. Otherwise, it’s just overwhelming!
Our latest eco-friendly swap has been to use mesh bags instead of plastic for our fruit and veges that we buy at the supermarket. I have been using green bags for years (and I am pretty good at remembering them now!) It just becomes a habit.
I ordered some of these mesh bags from the kitchen shop where I work. If you can’t find them, ask your local kitchenware store to order them for you. There is also a company called Onya making a version too.
I have never seen anyone use them and I thought I would get some strange looks! Nobody batted an eyelid – not even the register girl! They weigh 15g each, so it’s not going to make an impact on the weight and pricing either.
I think they are pretty snazzy – but, they are not so good for storing the fruit and veges in the fridge. Our organic supplier sells Peak Fresh green bags, so I have been using them to store the produce in.
The Peak Fresh bags are plastic, but they are really sturdy and reusable. I just give them a wash. They actually prolong the life of your fruit and veges too. That’s handy when I am paying a premium for the good stuff!
Now, if you are really clever with a sewing machine (unlike me), then you could whip up your own produce bags using old t-shirts, like these I found on Pinterest. To see how to make them go here.
So, that’s our latest step towards making the earth that bit greener! It really is very satisfying to be able to make small changes and stick with them. Hopefully my kids are learning and gaining respect for the environment as we do these things. They are the next generation looking after our planet!
Thanks for this! I’ve always wanted something for my veggies instead of those little plastic ones. Great post! I even thought about using the green bags made for wine bottles but the weighing thing posed a problem.
Thanks Amy – I think the supermarkets should start selling them, like they did with the green bags. It would cut costs for them too!
I love this idea. I should also make more of an effort in being greener with things like this. Reading your post has inspired me!! How cute are those bags off Pinterest 🙂
It’s a gradual process for us, but we are getting there! 🙂
I’ve been reusing my plastic bags and taking them to the shop with me again and again. It’s been a while since I’ve gotten a new bag at the shop, but my husband gets them regularly, so we always have a fresh supply. But.. your mesh bags look a lot nicer.
that’s really great! I don’t think many people reuse like that!
I have the enjo ones they are great. Love that your whole fam is involved.
I didn’t even know enjo did them ! I really should have an enjo party and check it all out!
My husband and I are in the habit of bringing canvas bags to the grocery store. I have a large purse so I generally just store smaller clothing items / items from the drugstore in my purse instead of taking plastic bags. So my next step is to find some of these smaller fruit and veggie bags as well! These are great ideas 🙂
Sonia, this is awesome. Totally going to get some of these – I’ve been looking for something similar for a while.
Also, just wanted to say I found you via Me vs Myself and I love what I see. Thank you for all the fab ideas I’ve found already!!
Hello and welcome !!
I get my fruit and veges delivered from Aussie Farmers Direct (loose in a box) and when I pick up a few extras at the supermarket, I grab the plastic bags and secretly cringe….
You know how you sometimes do things habitually, without stopping and thinking about possible solutions? Well…Thanks for providing some great alternatives Sonia! I’ve been making a few changes in my life since reading your blog 🙂
wayhay!! that’s what I love to hear !! nice one
What a great idea. And good to hear you didn’t get any funny looks for your sensibleness. Do you place loose stuff in ’em, like leaves and beans?
Hi Paul. Yes! I do get an organic fruit and vege delivery, but whatever he doesn’t have available, I get from the supermarket.
These are great!! I made some of these last month & love them. 🙂
how did you make them Tarnya?