Category: Shopping

Sustainable Shopping at Bulk Food Shops

Embracing sustainable shopping practices is crucial for reducing our environmental impact, and Wasteless Pantry offers a pioneering approach to achieving this, particularly through their model as one of the leading bulk food shops. Here are five key actions you can take to shop sustainably:

  1. Refill and Reuse: Wasteless Pantry encourages customers to bring their own containers to refill with everything from grains to cleaning supplies, reducing single-use packaging.
  2. Buy Local: Supporting local products reduces carbon emissions from transportation and supports the community. Wasteless Pantry emphasizes a shorter supply chain with many locally sourced items.
  3. Choose Organic and Ethical: Opt for products grown or produced sustainably. Wasteless Pantry provides organic options ensuring products are free from harmful pesticides and ethically produced.
  4. Reduce Food Waste: Customers can significantly reduce food waste by purchasing exact quantities from bulk food shops like Wasteless Pantry.
  5. Educate and Spread Awareness: Wasteless Pantry educates the community on sustainable practices through workshops and information sharing, fostering a more environmentally conscious community.

By integrating these actions, particularly through the use of bulk food shops, you contribute to a healthier planet and a sustainable future.

Expanding your sustainable shopping habits can include several additional strategies beyond using bulk food shops. Transitioning to more plant-based meals is a significant step, as plant-based diets generally have a lower carbon footprint compared to diets rich in animal products. Additionally, buying produce that is in season can reduce the environmental impact associated with long-distance food transport and supports local farming. Another simple yet effective approach is to bring reusable produce bags when shopping to minimize the use of single-use plastics. These steps, combined with the bulk buying practices, contribute substantially to a more sustainable lifestyle.


Refill Over Recycle: The Path to Sustainable Grocery Shopping

Sustainable grocery shopping can be done! In the realm of sustainable living, choosing to refill rather than recycle or compost packaging during your weekly grocery shop emerges as a superior choice. Especially within the context of Western Australia. While recycling and composting have their merits, they’re hampered by limitations and inefficiencies. A significant portion of materials cannot be recycled locally. Many must be transported interstate or even internationally for processing, increasing carbon footprints and undermining the sustainability of the recycling process.

Moreover, the distinction between home compostable and industrially compostable materials adds another layer of complexity. Items like disposable coffee cups, are often marketed as ‘compostable’. Typically these require industrial facilities to break down, facilities that are not universally accessible. This means that without the proper processing, these items may not decompose as intended, leading to potential environmental harm.

Refilling, on the other hand, minimizes waste from the outset. By using reusable containers and purchasing products in bulk, consumers significantly reduce the need for single-use packaging. This leads to a more sustainable and impactful practice. This not only conserves resources and energy but also lessens the reliance on recycling and composting systems, which, as noted, come with their own sets of challenges.

Ultimately, refilling is a proactive step towards reducing waste and promoting environmental sustainability. It encourages a shift in consumer behavior that, if adopted widely, could lead to substantial positive impacts on waste reduction and resource conservation, aligning more closely with the ideals of a circular economy.

Enter Wasteless Pantry: your go-to for ditching the packaging drama and achieving sustainable grocery shopping. We make refilling easy and fun, so you can skip the recycling guesswork and do your bit for the planet with every shop, whether it is in-store or online.


Father’s Day Gift Guide

Check out our Father’s Day Gift Guide. Searching for a gift that is good for Dad and good for the planet? We have you covered! There are so many lovely eco-friendly, waste-free, locally made options these days. Most Dad’s just want to feel appreciated and loved so no need to go overboard, just because there are plenty of amazing things to choose from! Find them online at Wasteless Pantry.

Gifts $10 and under

Gifts $20 and under

Gifts $50 and under

Gifts $100 and under

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Check out our Mother’s Day Gift Guide! Searching for a gift for that is good for Mum and good for the planet? We have you covered at Wasteless Pantry! There are so many lovely eco-friendly, waste free, locally made options these days. Just remember, Mum just wants to feel appreciated and loved so no need to go overboard, just because there are plenty of pretty things to choose from!


Zero Waste Starter Guide

It’s a New Year and another opportunity to get cracking on reducing your waste with Wasteless Pantry‘s Zero Waste Starter Guide. I love the enthusiasm that is generated from the calendar ticking over to January 1st, and all the new habits and resolutions that are inspired!

Step 1: Bin Audit

Starting with some ideas about what goes into your bin is the best first step. So as gross as it sounds, you are going to need to pay attention to what is going into your bin. If it’s a shared bin then it gets trickier and so picking a not too hot day/week to pull it all out on a tarp or the lawn is a confronting and informative way to find out exactly what has been hiding in there.

Group all the bits and bobs into as many categories as is useful to you:

Landfill – stuff that has no other place to go like disposable nappies and random little bits of plastic.

Compostable – think food waste, tissues, paper towels, hair from your hairbrush and dust out of the vacuum.

Recyclable – all the things that go in your yellow top bin.

Specialist recyclable – things like batteries, ink cartridges, toothbrushes, globes, spectacles, razors, mobile phones, e-waste and paint.

Step 2: Collection Bins

Now that you have figured out what you are dealing with, it’s time to make sure that you have all your collection bins sorted. Maybe you have only had a landfill bin in the house and so that is where everything has been going. Or maybe you figured out that you don’t actually know what goes in your yellow top recycling bin. Perhaps, your compost bin wasn’t cutting it as it was too big or too small and so nobody wanted to use it. Whatever you learnt, what is your solution?

In our house, we have a landfill bin, compost bucket and recycling bin in the Kitchen, Bathroom and Study/Office. We have a little battery collection bin in the draw with the new batteries. I pop bread tags, ink cartridges, used pens and toothbrushes into the shopping bag I take to Wasteless Pantry so that I can remember to drop them off each week. I put globes in my car for dropping off at the Sports Centre I go to. We have a box in the shed to collect any e-waste as that only gets dropped off about once a year.

Make it easy to collect your specialist recycling!

Think about putting all the information about what goes in each Collection Bin on it so that everyone can make good choices. And make sure to let the whole household know where they all are!

Step 3: Use What You Have

At this point, you might be rearing to go get all the cool zero waste gear so that you can tick the box of feeling wasteless. Hold your horses!

We would love you to instead use up all the products and food you have first before you think about getting anything new. With the exception of expired products and food which needs to be disposed of, it is usually best to just swap things out as you finish them up. Good reasons for this are that:

  • Saves money
  • Prevents waste
  • Reduces clutter
  • More gradual change is usually easier to keep up long term

So instead of going out and getting new containers, reuse jars and takeaway containers. Instead of getting shampoo bars, use up the last of all your shampoo samples and leftovers first. Instead of buying a fancy BYO coffee cup, take one from home. And yes, we want you to use up all the food in packets in your pantry, fridge and freezer too.

Anything that has passed it’s used by date could be a risk to your safety, but anything past it’s best before you can use your common sense as most likely it is just not quite as flavoursome and delicious as it was before.

Step 4: Gently Make a Change

Find one thing at a time to change.

Pick one area you’d like to wasteless and just start there.

When that is easy and hard for you not to do, then do the next thing.

Slow and steady, you’ll get there!

If you need more tips, pop into Wasteless Pantry and have a chat.


8 Simple Food Waste Hacks to Save Money and the Planet

Did you know that Australians throw away vast amounts of food every week? It’s estimated that the average household discards about $2,200 worth of food each year! We waste food for many reasons: we overestimate how much we need, serve more than our families can eat, and forget about leftovers tucked away in the fridge.

But there are easy and effective ways to reduce food waste at home. With a little planning and these food waste hacks, you can save money and cut down on waste. Here are eight practical food waste hacks to help you get started.

1. Clear Out Your Fridge, Freezer, and Pantry

If you haven’t done this in a while, challenge yourself to avoid grocery shopping until your storage is at least 1/4 empty. Why? When your fridge, freezer, or pantry is too full, it’s easy to lose track of what you already have, leading to unnecessary purchases and food waste. Use up what’s on hand before restocking.

2. Set Up a Compost System

Composting is one of the best ways to manage food waste. Keep a container in your kitchen to collect food scraps, even the forgotten, stinky items from the back of the fridge. Once full, transfer it to your outdoor compost bin or garden. By doing this, you’ll become more aware of what you’re wasting, and it’ll motivate you to make smarter choices about food storage and meal planning.

3. Understand ‘Best Before’ vs. ‘Use By’ Dates

Many foods, like pasta, rice, and spices, have a “Best Before” date, which means they’re still safe to eat after this date, although they might not be as fresh or flavorful. In contrast, “Use By” dates are crucial for safety. Once past the “Use By” date, it’s best to compost these items to avoid health risks.

4. Avoid ‘Specials’ Unless You’re Sure

Specials and discounts can be tempting, but unless you’re certain that you’ll use the item before it expires, it’s best to skip the deal. Overbuying often leads to food waste, so try to resist the temptation of stocking up on items that could end up in the bin.

5. Label Your Leftovers

Keep track of your leftovers by labeling them with the date and contents. Permanent markers wash off most containers, making it easy to reuse them. Knowing what’s in your fridge and how long it’s been there increases the likelihood that your leftovers will get eaten before they spoil.

6. Plan for Leftovers When Cooking

Think about how well your meal will store before you start cooking. Does it freeze well, or should it be eaten within a couple of days? If you’re expecting leftovers, portion your meal accordingly, and plan for how you’ll use or store them. Being proactive helps prevent food from being forgotten in the back of the fridge.

7. Practice Portion Control

Serve smaller portions and encourage family members to go back for seconds if they’re still hungry. Often, food left uneaten on plates goes straight into the bin. Reducing initial serving sizes is a simple way to avoid this kind of waste, especially when it comes to kids’ meals.

8. Shop Once a Week

Shopping once a week instead of daily helps reduce impulse purchases and food waste. Make a meal plan, create a shopping list, and stick to it. You’re less likely to overbuy or forget what’s already in your pantry. Planning ahead saves time, money, and prevents food waste.

The Benefits of Buying from Wasteless Pantry

By shopping at Wasteless Pantry, you’re supporting a sustainable, zero-waste lifestyle. Our bulk food options allow you to purchase exactly the amount you need, reducing packaging waste and minimizing food waste at home. From pantry staples to fresh ingredients, everything is available in bulk, so you don’t have to buy more than what you’ll use. Plus, buying in bulk is often more affordable, helping you save money while reducing your environmental footprint.

A little planning and implementing these food waste hacks in your shopping and cooking habits can have a significant impact on food waste reduction. Not only will you be saving money, but you’ll also be helping the environment by minimizing what ends up in landfills.

Weekly Menu Plan PDF


Streamline Your Shopping with Our Free “Shop for You” Service

At Wasteless Pantry, we’ve been offering our free Shop for You service since we first opened, but in recent times, this service has become more essential for many of our customers. Whether you’re practicing social distancing, short on time, or simply prefer the convenience, we’re here to help make your zero-waste shopping experience easier than ever.

To ensure a smooth and efficient process, we’ve developed a simple Shop for You Order Form. This form gives us all the information we need to gather your items quickly and efficiently, so you can get your goods without the hassle of in-store shopping. Below is a breakdown of how the process works:

How Our Shop for You Service Works:

  1. Fill Out the Order Form
    Use the ‘Shop for You Order Form’ to detail exactly what you need. This form captures everything we need, from your preferred quantities to any special requests. Once the form is filled out, simply email it to us.

  2. Order Confirmation
    We’ll send you an email confirmation within 24 hours to let you know we’ve received your order. This gives you peace of mind that your request is being processed.

  3. Order Preparation
    Our team will work to gather your items, aiming to have your order ready within 3 days. In many cases, we can have it ready sooner, and we’ll give you a call to let you know if that’s the case. At that time, we’ll also take your payment over the phone.

  4. Grab & Go Pick-Up
    Once your order is ready, you can skip the checkout line! Your items will be pre-packed and ready to pick up. Just swing by the store, grab your order, and go—no waiting in queues to pay.

  5. Refill Your Containers
    While you don’t need to bring your own containers, we know many of you love to. If you’re dropping off containers for refills, we’ve made it even easier for you. We have a designated drop-off spot in the store where you can leave your containers. We’ll fill them up for you, and you won’t need to wait around.

Why Choose Wasteless Pantry’s Shop for You Service?

This service is designed to save you time and make your shopping experience as convenient as possible. Whether you’re looking to minimize your time in-store or simply prefer the ease of having your items ready for collection, our Shop for You service makes it simple. Plus, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re still shopping sustainably, supporting a zero-waste lifestyle.

By offering this service, we help make the transition to package-free shopping as seamless as possible. You can order everything from pantry staples to eco-friendly household goods, all while reducing your environmental impact and saving valuable time.

Shop for You Order Form – click on red text for PDF which can be typed on or printed

Shop for You Order Form (Word Version)


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So that we don’t miss your order please send it directly to the dedicated orders email address for your local store:
 
Since clarity is key:

Our Returns Policy is available online:  https://www.wastelesspantry.com.au/returns-policy/

Our prices change frequently depending on supply conditions.

We cannot guarantee that all products will be in stock.

There are purchase limits on some products depending on demand and supply.

Please be as clear as possible – this helps staff to fulfill your order more quickly.

Some products which have multiple options (varies depending on your local store), please be clear. For example:

Chia – black or white?

Chocolate –  bits or buttons? milk white or dark (or carob)?

Coffee – Imported or Australian; single origin or blend; decaf; strong, medium or mild

Flour – plain, SR, 00, rye, wholemeal, spelt (white or wholemeal), bakers, gluten, sustainable (stoneground or normal), gluten free?

Laundry Liquid – top or front loader?

Muesli – fruity, tropical, toasted, 98% fat free, organic or sugar free?

Nuts (esp cashews, almonds and peanuts) – raw or roasted/ salted or unsalted?

Oats – organic, rolled or quick?

Paprika – sweet or smoky

Quinoa – tri colour, white or red

Pepper – peppercorns black or blended, Szechuan, white ground 

Rice – basmati, jasmine, arborio, short or long grain

Salt– Fine or Rock, Regular or Pink Lake Salt or flavoured (chicken, garlic, celery, onion, vegetable)

Spices – seeds or ground?

Tea – so many options!

Turmeric – 3% or 5%

We hope this makes it easy to understand and clear what to expect. Thanks for supporting us!


Low Waste Gifts for Dad

Father’s Day is right around the corner (mark your calendar for the first Sunday in September), and you might be thinking, “What should I get Dad this year?” You want something thoughtful, practical, and environmentally friendly—perhaps you’ve searched for green gifts, eco gifts, zero waste gifts, or gifts for a waste-free Dad. Don’t worry, Wasteless Pantry has you covered with low-waste gift ideas that your Dad will love!

The Best Gift is Time and Appreciation

First things first—remember that your Dad probably just wants to feel loved and appreciated. The best gifts often aren’t material things. Instead, you could spend quality time with him, whether that means cooking a special meal, going on an outdoor adventure, or simply grabbing a drink together. These experiences create lasting memories and require little to no environmental impact.

If You Want to Bring a Gift, Make It Consumable or Secondhand

If you feel uncomfortable arriving empty-handed, consider giving a thoughtful, consumable gift. For example, you could bring Dad’s favorite snacks, coffee, or tea—all of which can be purchased in reusable containers at Wasteless Pantry. Consumable gifts are great because they’re enjoyed without creating unnecessary clutter or waste.

Another option is to give something secondhand with sentimental value. Maybe there’s a book you used to read together when you were a kid, or a vintage beer mug from his favorite tavern. Gifts like these are meaningful, and repurposing items helps reduce the need for new materials, making them more sustainable.

You could even get crafty and make something from reused or upcycled materials. For the handy types, think of those DIY pallet frames or homemade furniture projects you’ve seen on Pinterest. These types of gifts not only show off your creativity but also demonstrate the skills your Dad might have passed on to you.

Low-Waste Gift Ideas from Wasteless Pantry

If you’re looking for something Dad can use and enjoy that’s also environmentally friendly, here are a few ideas from Wasteless Pantry:

  1. Reusable Coffee Cup or Water Bottle
    For the Dad who’s always on the go, a high-quality reusable coffee cup or insulated water bottle is a great choice. These help reduce the need for single-use plastics and will last him for years.

  2. Sustainable Grooming Products
    Upgrade Dad’s grooming routine with eco-friendly shaving kits, beard balms, or soap bars that come without plastic packaging. He’ll appreciate the luxury and the sustainability factor.

  3. DIY BBQ Rub Kit
    Does Dad love to cook? Put together a personalized BBQ rub kit using bulk spices from Wasteless Pantry. You can choose a variety of flavors and pack them in reusable glass jars for a thoughtful, zero-waste gift.

  4. Snack Packs
    For the snack-loving Dad, create a custom selection of his favorite nuts, dried fruits, or treats. Put together a gift basket of zero-waste goodies that he can enjoy without any excess packaging.

  5. Zero-Waste Starter Kit
    If your Dad is interested in going green but hasn’t yet made the leap, why not help him out with a zero-waste starter kit? This could include reusable produce bags, beeswax wraps, bamboo cutlery, and other eco-friendly essentials.

Why Choose Low-Waste Gifts from Wasteless Pantry?

Choosing a low-waste gift is a great way to show Dad that you care about him and the planet. At Wasteless Pantry, we specialize in offering products that reduce waste, come without unnecessary packaging, and are often reusable or compostable. Whether it’s something consumable, upcycled, or reusable, every gift from Wasteless Pantry helps reduce your environmental footprint and promotes a more sustainable lifestyle.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect gift this Father’s Day, remember that Wasteless Pantry has a range of thoughtful, eco-friendly options that are sure to impress. Whether you’re putting together a DIY kit, treating Dad to his favorite snacks, or helping him start his zero-waste journey, we’re here to help you make this Father’s Day one to remember—without the waste.

  • Stainless steel lunchbox - something big and sturdy, or even stackable - that he'll think of you when he uses every day for lunch
  • Stainless steel water bottle - pick the size that works best for Dad, insulated or not, so he is always hydrated but doesn't have to buy disposable plastic ones any more
  • Food flasks - for keeping food and drinks hot or cold whilst Dad is out and about
  • Travel coffee mug - whether it's glass, flexible silicone or stainless steel we have one to suit Dad
  • Shaving kits - we have stainless steel safety razors, new blades, shave pucks (low waste shaving cream) and shaving brushes available
  • Coffee kits - think plungers, stove top espresso makers, reusable coffee pods and coffee beans with flavour descriptions like "strong great all rounder" just like Dad
  • Tea kits - we're talking teapots, tea strainers and so many loose leaf tea options (in both our tea and herbs sections)
  • Toiletries - maybe what Dad could use is a shampoo bar, dude rock (manly soap), bamboo toothbrush, plastic free floss, bamboo comb and natural deodorant (we have scoopable paste deodorant or refillable liquid deodorant in masculine scents on hand)
  • Toilet paper - if you have a Dad who spends a lot of time in the bathroom then maybe he'll appreciate the light reading that comes with each roll, particularly the red emergency roll

If it’s just too hard to pick, then don’t! We have gift vouchers too so your Dad can choose for himself (and we can email them if you prefer too).

Happy Father’s Day to all the Dad’s out there!

Water Bottles
Help Mum eat out sustainably
Coffee Beans
Shaving Kits

Top picture credit: Photo by Szilvia Basso on Unsplash


Zero Waste Mother’s Day Tips

As Mother’s Day approaches, it’s hard to escape the constant marketing messages urging you to buy the perfect gift to show your Mum how much you care. Whether it’s flowers, a fancy gift pack, or a big box of chocolates, these ads seem to suggest that spending money is the best way to prove your love.

But, as a Mum myself, I can tell you that most Mums don’t care about the size or cost of the gift. What we truly value is knowing that you’re thinking of us and that you appreciate everything we do. This Mother’s Day, why not embrace a zero-waste approach that focuses on thoughtful, sustainable gifts and, most importantly, quality time together?

Make Mother’s Day Meaningful—Without the Waste

The best memories are often the simplest. Think back to the homemade cards you drew for your Mum as a kid or the slightly-burnt breakfast in bed you made for her. She cherished those moments not because they were expensive, but because they came from the heart. This year, show your love in a way that’s both meaningful and eco-friendly by giving thoughtful, waste-free gifts or experiences.

Zero-Waste Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

  1. Handcrafted Tea Blends
    Treat your Mum to a delicious tea blend made from bulk ingredients like ginger, lemongrass, or her favorite herbs. Add a touch of sweetness with coconut sugar for an extra special touch.
  2. Homemade Cake or Brownies
    Bake a cake yourself! We have a ready-to-mix brownie blend at Wasteless Pantry that just needs water, making it easy even if your baking skills haven’t improved much since childhood.
  3. Coffee & Mug Set
    If your Mum loves coffee, why not gift her some high-quality coffee beans and a reusable coffee plunger or a unique secondhand mug from an op shop? It’s personal, useful, and zero-waste.
  4. Chocolate Creations
    Chocolate is always a winner! You could try your hand at creating custom chocolate bars using bulk ingredients like cacao powder and nuts, tailored to her favorite flavors.
  5. Sustainable Skincare
    Reusable face wipes, a shampoo bar, or a jar of handmade moisturiser are practical, waste-free gifts that your Mum will love. You can even get creative and use a repurposed jar for a personal touch.

Give the Gift of Time

More than anything, your Mum probably just wants to spend time with you. Whether it’s taking her out for a coffee, cooking her a special meal, or simply spending the day together, these moments matter far more than material gifts. Make memories, share stories, and remind her of the bond you share—these are the things that will stay with her for years to come.

Why Buy from Wasteless Pantry for Mother’s Day?

At Wasteless Pantry, we believe in celebrating thoughtfully and sustainably. Our range of bulk, packaging-free ingredients and eco-friendly products make it easy to choose gifts that are kind to both your Mum and the planet. By opting for zero-waste gifts, you’re making a positive environmental impact while still treating your Mum to something special. Whether it’s a handcrafted tea blend or a delicious homemade cake, our sustainable products help make your Mother’s Day celebration eco-friendly and heartfelt.


Practical Gift Giving Guide

Do your Christmases and birthdays often involve exchanging plastic, over-packaged trinkets and novelty gifts that are quickly forgotten? Maybe you’ve even been the recipient of such gifts. It’s so easy to get swept up in the consumerism of the festive season and make rushed purchases, but thoughtful, practical gift-giving can make all the difference.

As someone passionate about living with less waste, I understand the temptation to buy things during the holidays. Who doesn’t love doing nice things for others? But doing something thoughtful doesn’t always mean buying just to give. It’s important to consider the life of the gift you’re purchasing.

Ask yourself these questions when selecting a gift:

  1. Will this gift bring joy for years to come?
    If yes, then it’s a great choice! If not, perhaps just share the fun story of what you found instead.
  2. Does the person have space for it?
    If yes, fantastic! If not, consider consumable gifts that won’t take up room in their home.
  3. Does this gift align with the person’s values or lifestyle?
    If yes, it’s a thoughtful gesture. If not, you may want to reconsider and support them in becoming the person they want to be.

Choosing the perfect gift is challenging, but don’t forget to ask yourself: Does this person even want a gift from me? Sometimes your time, a helping hand, or a kind gesture can be more meaningful than a physical present.

Practical Gift Ideas from the Wasteless Pantry team:

If you feel you must give something, here are a few low-waste, thoughtful ideas:

  • Handmade Tea Blends: Create a custom tea blend using herbs like lemongrass, peppermint, hibiscus, or chamomile. Package it in a reusable container.
  • Fragrant Bath Bags: Fill a soap nut bag with Epsom salts, bicarb soda, and dried herbs for a soothing bath soak.
  • Homemade Soaps: Palm oil-free soaps make a great gift for eco-conscious friends.
  • Chocolate Bars and Rocky Road: Make your own chocolate bark by melting chocolate and adding toppings like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
  • Reusable Items: Support friends aiming for a zero-waste lifestyle with reusable coffee cups, shopping bags, baking liners, or stainless steel drink bottles.
  • Recipe Jars: Assemble the ingredients for a favorite recipe in a jar, with instructions attached for easy cooking.

These ideas are just the start! Visit Wasteless Pantry for more eco-friendly gift options and personal advice.