Packed lunches are the way to go these days. Brown bagging at work is one of the easiest ways to save some money and improve your diet. But if you’re going to pack a lunch, try to do it the eco-friendly way. Here’s how.
Skip the brown paper bag or plastic bag. Instead, invest in some long-lasting reusable sacks or lunchboxes. The Japanese style Bento Boxes, with separate lift-out containers that fit snugly together for transport and storage are ideal for multi-course lunches. They are traditionally made from lightweight wood that is neither microwave nor dishwasher safe, and while I like them, an Americanized version of the bento box can be found at Laptop Lunches. Cute and colorful, these plastic lunchboxes do not contain phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), or lead and are reusable, recyclable, and dishwasher safe.
Forget about plastic wrap and sandwich baggies. There are better ways to wrap sandwiches, crackers, and cookies. My favorite is the Wrap-N-Mat, that serves not only as a sandwich wrap but also a place mat when you’re ready to eat. Green and tidy, too.
Add an organic cloth napkin and a set of bamboo utensils to the lunch box and you’ll be able to eat your lunch anywhere you want.
Don’t you just love it when you can be green, healthy and save money at the same time?
Image: Denna Jones