You don’t even know you’re doing it. With your scribbled shopping list in hand and your thoughts elsewhere, picking out plastic-free produce is probably the last thing on your mind.
Perhaps you subconsciously opt for plastic-wrapped produce simply because it’s ‘safer’ or it ‘retains its freshness’. But underneath the plastic, the fruit and veg is just the same, isn’t it?
So, why are we still shunning plastic-free produce?
Let’s roll up our sleeves and delve a little bit deeper into the myths surrounding the topic.
The top 4 plastic-free produce myths
There’s a lot of noise online and on television about plastic alternatives and loose produce. It can be difficult to distinguish the old wives’ tales from the facts.
To ease your conscience and help you make better grocery choices, we’ve compiled four plastic free produce myths that you should dismiss today.
1. “Plastic alternatives are just as bad”
If we’re talking recycled plastic, the Chinese whispers are probably right.
But biodegradable, innovative packaging alternatives are more environmentally friendly to make and much better for the planet.
Plant-based ‘bio’ plastics, for example, are grown sustainably and, once finished with, compostable on an industrial level. Current plastic packaging, however, isn’t yet widely recycled. So, in short, it’s better to avoid plastic altogether and opt for plastic-free or paper packaging instead.
2. “Fruit and veg goes off faster”
If you’re buying plastic-wrapped produce for fear of a shorter shelf life, you’re not the only one. More than half of fruit and veg buyers believe the plastic keeps the produce fresher for longer.
The truth is: so long as fruit and veg is handled right, plastic wrap isn’t necessary.
For example, apples that are stored at room temperature in paper trays and cartons stay just as fresh as those in plastic wrap.
3. “It’s difficult to store”
According to some science whizzes at Washington State University, air-tight plastic bags are the worst choice for storing vegetables.
Your fresh produce needs room to breathe.
That said, we understand the visual nightmare that is loose produce in a fridge. So, to keep your produce bundled safely together, why not opt for a reusable mesh produce bag instead? They’re simple, planet-friendly and easy to stuff into a back pocket.
4. “Loose produce is expensive or harder to find”
We’re going to be honest with you here. Supermarkets still do favorplastic. (Yes, we hear you there in the back – you’re right, it should be changed.)
But just because corporations favour plastic, it doesn’t mean that loose, plastic-free produce is by any means more expensive or harder to find.
You should be able to eat well anddo your bit to clean up the planet, without having to use up your valuable time or money. That’s why we’ve pioneered Pikt: our sustainable, environmentally friendly fruit and veg box delivery service.
It’s simple. We deliver affordable, fresh and organic fruit and vegetables straight from our farms to your door. No annoying substitutes. No plastics. No fuss.
Become a plastic-free produce champion
By altering little habits in your day-to-day life, you’ll help to rid oceans of plastic and change the world.
It’s a step-by-step process that may take some time, but we believe in you – you’ve got what it takes. And, hey, we’re here to help you wherever we can along the way. So, are you ready to make a change?
