We know so many of you want to do more to reduce your waste but when you look around the sea of plastic packaging at the supermarket it can seem all too hard.

The good news is plastic-free shopping is achievable thanks to some local businesses that allow you to bring your own jars and containers and buy unpackaged everyday grocery items.

The environment is of course the big winner here not only because there’s no plastic packaging but also because you’re only buying the amount you need so it reduces food waste.

Here are two great local options:

1. Valerie’s Pantry at 183 High Street in Belmont Open:

   Monday to Friday:	9:00am to 5:30pm
   Saturdays:	9:00am to 3:00pm
   Sundays:	10:00am to 2:00pm

   Beautifully presented boutique store offering bulk wholefoods fresh produce groceries health and cleaning products. From everyday pantry staples like honey flour and oats to laundry/cleaning items like laundry detergent compostable scouring cloths and even stainless steel pegs. They’ve also got plastic-free personal hygiene covered with shampoo and conditioner bars bamboo toothbrushes and natural deodorant packaged in glass or cardboard.
2. The Source Bulk Foods at 210 Pakington Street in Geelong West Open:

   Monday to Friday:	9:00am to 5:30pm
   Saturdays:	9:00am to 5:00pm
   Sundays:	10:00am to 3:00pm

   Australias largest bulk food retailer with over 50 zero-waste grocery stores The Source Bulk Foods offers waste-free old fashion grocery shopping where you can buy wholesome healthy wholefoods with minimal packaging. It has an extensive range of health foods superfoods grains cereals flours treats nuts seeds oils personal care products and more. Basically every cooking ingredient you can ever imagine including a huge selection of vegan paleo gluten-free organic and conventional options.

Help us become plastic-free

Does your business offer everyday grocery items with minimal packaging? Email us with your details.