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Switch to a reusable lunchbox

Why This is Green

The average child is said to produce 67 pounds of trash at lunch a year, which really adds up. This is easily avoided—for kids and adults alike—by switching to a reusable lunchbox plus utensils, napkins, and baggies. You’ll reduce waste and save natural resources, too.

Your school might already be suggesting waste-free lunches, where the components of a kids’ lunch must be reusable or compostable; not only is this a teachable moment but it saves money on trash collection.

Before you shop for reusable lunch wares, keep in mind that some options may contain lead and/or PVC (which environmentalists like to call the poison plastic). These are not safe around food.

Shop for tried and true materials that are known to be safe, like glass, stainless steel, and lead-free ceramic. If your school as a no-glass policy, look for the plastics considered the safest: #2, #4, and #5. Wash all plastics carefully. Hot water and abrasive scrubbers cause plastic to break down, making it more likely to release its chemical components into your food.

Learn More

How To

Find reusable lunchboxes made of a safe material that your kid and you really like. There are many choices online if you cannot find something at a local store.

If your school has instituted a waste-free program, they may offer lunchbox discounts.

Don’t forget reusable utensils, baggies, cloth napkins, and water bottles.

Bon appetit!