Being an Idahoan goes hand and hand with having respect for the environment. After all, our state’s wonderful landscapes are the thing we love most about living here, and we would hate to see anything happen to them. That’s why it only makes sense that the Northwest’s first zero waste grocery store can be found right here in the Gem State! This unique grocery store opened just last year, and it represents a way of living that all of us can definitely get on board with.
Idaho's first zero waste grocery store recently opened, and it's a total game changer. Whether you're dedicated to living a zero waste lifestyle or you're simply interested in testing the waters, a stop at this market is bound to inspire.
Located in Garden City, Roots Zero Waste Market is a new neighborhood grocery store and cafe that is focused on bringing the community healthy bulk food, fresh fruits and vegetables, and refillable household products. At first it looks like a typical grocery store, but there's one big difference; you won't find any food-packaging waste.
At this unique market, shoppers choose the amount of product that they need when they need it. All you have to do is simply fill a container of your choosing with the product that you need. Any container is welcome (as long as it's clean), but shoppers can also purchase re-usable containers at the store or take advantage of the "Bring a bag, leave a bag" recycling bag program.
We can all agree that typical American grocery stores go through a ton of packaging and food waste, but not at Roots. By rotating food from the grocery portion of the store through the cafe, they successfully eliminate any food waste that might occur due to expiration or superficial damage. This also means that the store's products are always super fresh.
Speaking of the grocery store's in-house cafe, shoppers will find that it boasts all types of delicious, healthy, and quick meals. On the made-to-order menu is a long list of signature sandwiches and small plates, many of which are vegan or vegetarian (but not all.) They also offer locally roasted coffee, juice, wines, beer, and ciders that you can enjoy while you're shopping.
The grocery portion of the market has pretty much anything you could need including a variety of bulk dry goods likes flours, grains, beans, and oil. You'll also find locally sourced dairy items, eggs, and produce, all of which are Idaho grown and organically cultivated.
Considering that U.S. grocery stores throw away 43 billion pounds of food and packaging waste every year, we think a zero waste grocery store like this is an excellent idea for disrupting wasteful practices. Convinced yet? Drop by Roots Zero Waste Market and you can start making a small but important difference!
What do you think? Are you interested in getting on board with zero waste living? As nature lovers, it’s a way of living that definitely makes sense. Check out this list of The 10 Most Beautiful Places In Idaho Everyone Should See for some inspiration to become more environmentally aware!
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