ZERO WASTE: My experiences with Dining Out and ZW

Like most people who have a busy life, I have times when I simply have to buy food at a restaurant. And sometimes I order in food for take-out. That in of itself generates disposable packaging that unfortunately may not be recyclable and will end up on a landfill. Alternatives to generating this food waste can be range from eating at the restaurant itself, requesting a cardboard carry-out package or bringing in your own reusable container. This post will be my experience with dining out while trying to be mindful of the waste I produce.

But before you buy all the reusable containers and your metal tumbler (or in my case a Walgreens' equivalent of a Yeti Tumbler), I find that asking an IMPORTANT question to the restaurant employees will prevent needless hassle and will make the experience educational for everyone:

Can I use my reusable package to carry my order and/or leftovers? 

This question, when asked on time, can prevent many unneeded stress in both the customer and restaurant staff. To simply assume your reusable container will be allowed would be incorrect, in part because of the sanitation rules along with management's own protocols. There can be sanitary rules that can prevent people to bring their own package to avoid cross contamination from the outside environment. There could also be some restrictions as well, and the best approach is to respect those rules and ask what is allowed and what isn't.

From my personal experience, asking this question allows the restaurant staff or employee to have a clear understanding of what my intentions are and what can be accomplished in my request. If they say no to certain items, like handling the package due to sanitation concerns, I've found it best to let it slide and ask if there are plastic-free options, like if they have cardboard or paper options. This is their livelihoods and their safety as well, no one wants to be that person that causes an unnecessary racket. 

For those restaurants and places that do allow a reusable container, I always thank them and answer any questions that they may have on my particular requests. It also allows me to make a friendly conversation with someone who may be having a rough day while they prepare my food, or just felt curious about the weird request. I'm always happy to see a surprise or a "Oh! Didn't think about that, should consider it for when I go out." I always try to remember that disposable packaging is the default, and to always treat those who serve my meals with kindness.

I also find that timing will be an issue when it comes to asking about options. A busy cashier or restaurant employee at peak hours might not be able to make the concessions you may want to reduce waste just from the sheer volume of work they have at hand. I've found it best to buy the meal and present my question before the mealtime rush, or after, and they'll probably be grateful for it. Plus, more chance of conversation. 

I'm going to show my set-up and I apologize for the terrible lighting, the set-up was not ideal

The take-out box is the Black+Blum Box Appetit Lunch Box that my twin got me in the United States. The lunch bag is an Igloo 8 Can Mini Essential Tote Cooler Bag that I got from Walgreens and the tumbler I don't remember the brand but it's from Walgreens as well. Not sponsored by Walgreens, I just have one nearby. I usually tote these around in my car (in a nice, shady place away from sunlight that could cause any damages to the product. This, along with my usual ZW lunch set-up, helps me minimize the plastic and paper waste that comes with take-out food. 

My usual process when dining out while zero-waste is to always have on hand my trusty metal straw, my beverage container if necessary (the tumbler or the small stainless steel can I got at my University store) and a cloth napkin. Either way if I eat there or if I do take-out, I ask before making any order if I may use my reusable container for leftovers or for my order. Whatever the answer I get from the restaurant, I abide and enjoy my time there. I always do my best to be as good a customer as I can be, and give those who are working the respect and kindness they deserve.

I suggest picking containers that you find comfortable carrying around for your own lunch (or dinner, late nights at work are a thing), and see what you find most useful. I hope this post may have served as inspiration to anyone who does want to try reducing their plastic and paper waste while also enjoying a night out or a cooked meal!

- SP