Reflecting on a recent trip to Iceland, where the guy and I were on a (working) vacation. I love Iceland, a place I\u2019ve spent significant time, except for the grocery store shopping experience. Grocery store tourism is one of my favorite parts of traveling \u2013 I can make precious memories happen in any aisle. It\u2019s really amazing to see different food systems laid out in a new context. However, in Iceland almost everything is packaged within an inch of its life; it pains me to purchase cucumbers wrapped in plastic “for my protection.” But when good quality produce is limited, it\u2019s the best option. I missed my bountiful bulk dry goods and individually accessible produce items. Minimizing non-recyclable purchases while traveling makes a huge difference while continuing a low impact practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While some produce is grown in Iceland and other goods manufactured within the country, it is in fact an island and a certain percentage of food is imported, or shipped across far distances, increasing overall consumer prices and lowering quality. Plastic wrapped produce seems like an unfortunate necessity for cooking at home. When searching for a farmer\u2019s market, I can only seem to find the stylish clothing company by the same name\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I may be spoiled by the multitude of food options in Portland, OR but it is a good reminder of the limitations of low waste accessibility and its importance. So how do you keep up with low waste practices when your choices are limited?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I try to make as much food from scratch before I hop on a plane that lasts the next couple of days so I\u2019m not reaching for the quickest thing. I made my body weight in this granola<\/a> for the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When possible, try buying your bread from the bakery instead of in the plastic sleeve from the supermarket. Not only is bakery bread most likely fresher, it\u2019s probably sold in a minimal amount of packaged material. My favorite bakery in RVK is Brau\u00f0 og Co<\/a>, amazing fresh bread and pastries, no plastic wrap. If you eat meat, a butchery might help you avoid those styrofoam trays that live forever. Similarly, if you can find loose fruits and veggies in a farmer\u2019s market or corner store try that out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Specialty shops over grocery stores.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
3. You can still BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag)!<\/h4>\n\n\n\n