Kitchen Sustainability Tips | Snacks on Sustainable Plates

30 Days to a More Sustainable Kitchen with Reusable Alternatives

By Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

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Time to Read: 10 min

Do you ever find yourself cleaning up after dinner and wondering where all the stuff comes from? The plastic packaging, the used paper towels... it can feel like a never-ending cycle! The other day, my little one asked me, "Mommy, where does all this trash go?" Honestly, I fumbled for an answer, feeling a twinge of guilt. 


As a pediatrician, I'm passionate about children's health. That includes not just what they eat but also the world they'll grow up in. Building a more sustainable kitchen isn't just about reducing waste, it's about creating a healthier environment.


But don't worry, transforming your kitchen doesn't have to be a huge undertaking. It's about taking small, manageable steps that fit into your busy life. That's why I'm excited to share this 30-day challenge with you. We'll tackle one small change each week, gradually building towards a kitchen that's better for your family and the planet. The best part? Your kids can join in the fun, learning valuable lessons about caring for our Earth along the way.

About Ahimsa

Founded by a pediatrician and mom of three

Stainless steel is the only kid-friendly material recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 

We are guided by a Scientific Advisory Council comprised of environmental and medical experts, guiding us in creating the safest products, following the latest science and promoting policy to protect human health and our planet

Want to know more? Check out our story and our products

Week 1: Ditch the Disposables – Bye-Bye, Single-Use!

Let's kick off our 30-day challenge with a simple yet impactful step: saying goodbye to some of the most common single-use items in our kitchens. I know, it might seem small, but trust me, these swaps add up!


Days 1-7: Our focus this week is on replacing paper towels, plastic wrap, paper napkins, and disposable snack bags.


  • Paper Towels: I've become a huge fan of Swedish dishcloths. These absorbent cloths are made from natural materials and can replace an entire roll of paper towels! They're great for wiping up spills, cleaning counters, and even washing dishes. Microfiber cloths are another excellent alternative – they're super soft and great for cleaning delicate surfaces.
  • Plastic Wrap: Those flimsy sheets of plastic wrap can be so frustrating! Instead, try reusable beeswax wraps and bags. Beeswax wraps are perfect for covering bowls or wrapping sandwiches. And, beeswax bags are great for sandwiches and snacks. 
  • Paper Napkins: Cloth napkins might feel a little fancy, but they're actually super practical for everyday use. Plus, you can find them in a variety of fun colors and patterns. Let your kids pick out their favorites – it's a great way to get them excited about sustainability!
  • Disposable Snack Bags: If you have kids, you know how many snack bags we go through! Reusable snack bags are a game-changer. You can find them made from different materials, like fabric or beewax, and they're perfect for packing lunches or on-the-go snacks. Bonus points if you get your kids involved in decorating their own snack bags with fabric markers or stamps!

A Helping Hand: Did you know that even our little ones' mealtime can be more sustainable? Reusable dishware, like the Ahimsa Mindful Mealtime Set, is a fantastic way to reduce waste and make mealtime fun. Made from durable stainless steel, these colorful dishes are perfect for little hands and can be used for years to come. They're not only safe and non-toxic, but they also help teach kids about the importance of sustainability. And, you’ll love to know that our stainless steel plates and bowls are Made Safe certified.


Tip: Making these swaps fun is key, especially when it comes to getting kids on board. Turn it into a scavenger hunt for reusable alternatives, or have a family "unwrapping" party to celebrate ditching plastic wrap. Remember, every small change makes a difference!

Mealtime Essentials

Week 2: Rethinking Food Storage – Out with the Old, In with the Sustainable!

Alright, week two is here, and we're diving into the world of food storage! This week, we're focusing on reducing plastic waste and embracing reusable options that will keep your kitchen organized and eco-friendly.


Days 8-14: Let's bid farewell to those plastic containers that seem to multiply in our cabinets and say hello to some new sustainable storage solutions.


  • Glass or Stainless Steel Containers: These are fantastic alternatives to plastic containers. Glass is durable, non-toxic, and can be used for everything from leftovers to meal prepping. Stainless steel is also a great option, especially for on-the-go snacks or lunches.
  • Reusable Bags for Bulk Items: If you buy bulk items like grains, nuts, or dried fruit, ditch the plastic bags and opt for reusable cloth bags instead. They're not only better for the environment but also help keep your pantry organized.
  • Composting: If you have a yard or access to a composting facility, start composting your food scraps! It's a great way to reduce food waste, enrich your garden soil, and create a natural fertilizer.
  • DIY Yogurt or Nut Milk: Making your own yogurt or nut milk is easier than you might think. It's a fun project to do with kids, and it significantly reduces packaging waste from store-bought alternatives.

Small but Mighty Storage: Speaking of snacks and lunches, the Ahimsa Circle Trio is a lifesaver for busy families. These colorful, leak-proof containers are perfect for packing snacks, dips, or even small portions of leftovers. They're made from stainless steel, so they're durable and easy to clean. Plus, they nest together for easy storage – no more digging through a messy cabinet for matching lids.


Tip: Farmers' markets are a great place to find unpackaged produce and bulk items. You can bring your reusable bags and fill them up with fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains. It's a wonderful way to support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint.


Remember, every time you choose a reusable option, you're helping to create a healthier planet for our children.

Kitchen Sustainability Tips | Sustainable Plates for Kitchen

Week 3: Water Wise and Energy Efficient – Flowing with Sustainability

This week, we're diving into the world of water and energy conservation! These resources are precious, and by making mindful choices in the kitchen, we can reduce our environmental impact and even save some money.


Days 15-21: Our focus this week is on reducing our water usage and making energy-efficient choices in the kitchen.


  • Filter, Don't Bottle: Bottled water might be convenient, but it creates a lot of plastic waste. Instead, invest in a water filter for your tap. It's a simple way to ensure you have clean, filtered water on hand without the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles.
  • Energy-Efficient Appliances: If you're in the market for new appliances, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. They may cost a bit more upfront, but they'll save you money on your energy bills in the long run. Look for appliances with the Energy Star label, which indicates they meet certain energy-saving standards.
  • Dishwashing Habits: Be mindful of how you wash dishes. Run the dishwasher only when it's full, and opt for the air-dry setting whenever possible. If you wash dishes by hand, fill the sink instead of letting the water run continuously.
  • Cook Once, Eat Twice (or More!): Cooking in bulk is a fantastic way to save energy and reduce food waste. Prepare a large batch of soup, stew, or a casserole, and freeze the leftovers for future meals. It's a lifesaver on busy weeknights!

Tip: Get your kids involved in the water-saving mission! Challenge them to find ways to conserve water in the kitchen and throughout the house. They can turn off the faucet while brushing their teeth, take shorter showers, or even help water plants with leftover water from cooking. Making it a game is a great way to teach them valuable lessons about conservation.

Week 4: Mindful Meal Planning and Beyond – Beyond the Fridge

Congratulations! You've made it to the final week of our 30-day challenge. We've tackled disposables, food storage, and energy conservation. Now, let's take a step back and focus on the bigger picture of sustainable eating and kitchen practices.


Days 22-30: This week, we're all about mindful meal planning, supporting local farmers, and even getting a little green in our kitchen.


  • Meal Planning Magic: Planning your meals for the week can be a game-changer when it comes to reducing food waste. Before you head to the grocery store, take inventory of what you already have in your fridge and pantry. Get creative with leftovers – transform last night's roasted vegetables into a frittata or add leftover chicken to a salad.
  • Local and Seasonal: Opting for local and seasonal produce not only tastes better, but also supports sustainable agriculture. Look for farmers' markets or Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs in your area.
  • Grow Your Own: Even if you don't have a sprawling backyard, you can still grow fresh herbs or vegetables in your kitchen. A windowsill garden is a great place to start – try growing basil, mint, or cherry tomatoes. Kids love watching their plants grow and helping to harvest them!
  • Sustainable Cleaning: Let's not forget about cleaning! Look for eco-friendly cleaning products that are made with plant-based ingredients and come in refillable or recyclable packaging. You can even make your own cleaning solutions with simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.

Tip: Meal planning and cooking don't have to be a chore! Involve the whole family in the process. Kids can help choose recipes, wash vegetables, or even stir ingredients. It's a great opportunity to teach them about healthy eating and where food comes from.

High Fives for a Happier Kitchen!

Wow, look at us! We've spent the past 30 days transforming our kitchens into greener, healthier spaces. From saying goodbye to single-use items to exploring meal planning magic, we've made some incredible strides towards a more sustainable lifestyle. 


Remember, sustainability isn't about perfection, it's a journey we take one step at a time. Every choice you make, no matter how small, has a positive impact. So celebrate your wins, learn from your challenges, and keep exploring new ways to reduce your footprint.


And as you continue on the path to a greener household, consider extending your sustainable choices beyond just your kitchen habits. If you're looking for safe and durable dishware for your family, you might consider options like the Ahimsa stainless steel collection. It's a small but meaningful way to make mealtime even more eco-friendly. 


Here's to a brighter, healthier future for our families and our planet. Keep making those positive changes, one step at a time!

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi

Dr. Manasa Mantravadi is a board-certified pediatrician whose dedication to children’s health drove her to launch Ahimsa, the world's first colorful stainless steel dishes for kids. She was motivated by the American Academy of Pediatrics’ findings on harmful chemicals in plastic affecting children's well-being. Ahimsa has gained widespread recognition and been featured in media outlets such as Parents Magazine, the Today Show, The Oprah Magazine, and more.

Dr. Mantravadi received the esteemed “Physician Mentor of the Year” award at Indiana University School of Medicine in 2019. She was also named a Forbes Next 1000 Entrepreneur in 2021, with her inspiring story showcased on Good Morning America. She serves on the Council for Environmental Health and Climate Change and the Council for School Health at The American Academy of Pediatrics. She represents Ahimsa as a U.S. industry stakeholder on the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) for the Global Plastics Treaty, led by the United Nations Environment Program. Dr. Mantravadi leads Ahimsa's social impact program, The Conscious Cafeteria Project, to reduce carbon emissions and safeguard student health as part of a national pilot of the Clinton Global Initiative.

She is dedicated to educating and empowering people to make healthier, more environmentally friendly choices at mealtime. Her mission remains to advocate for the health of all children and the one planet we will leave behind for them through real policy change within our food system.

More Mealtime Essentials

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use stainless steel instead of plastic? Is stainless steel better for health?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a report in July 2018 suggesting ways that families can limit exposure to certain chemicals at mealtime, including “the use of alternatives to plastic, such as glass or stainless steel, when possible.” The report explained that “…some additives are put directly in foods, while “indirect” additives may include chemicals from plastic, glues, dyes, paper, cardboard”. Further, “Children are more sensitive to chemical exposures because they eat and drink more, relative to body weight, than adults do, and are still growing and developing.” While stainless steel items meet the recommendation to avoid plastic products in children, Ahimsa® products have the obvious advantage of not breaking like glass.

Is stainless steel better for the environment than plastic?

According to the Steel Recycling Institute, steel can be recycled over and over and over again without losing its integrity and requires less energy to recycle than to make anew. Most plastic unfortunately ends up in landfills and it is estimated to take 700 years to decompose. Our special coloring process that allows Ahimsa® products to be fully metal is environmentally friendly, so it does not produce toxic run-off into the ecosystem.

Will Ahimsa products break or peel?

No. Our steel is durable, so it won’t break or shatter with everyday use, like glass. And it won’t peel, like other colored stainless steel products you’ve seen. We use a special process that allows the colors to naturally occur in the metal.

Which Ahimsa products are best for my little one(s)?

Our products are meant to last, you can use Ahimsa at ages 1, 8 and 18! We thoughtfully design our products to be safe for little ones and our planet while reducing consumption. Once your child outgrows the Starting Solids Set  and can use regular cups and utensils, the training cup is the perfect size rinse cup in the bathroom, the infant spoon doubles as a tea stirrer and the bowl is great for snacks or as an additional compartment to our modular divided plate. Our plates are great for any age as they encourage choosing a variety of healthy foods at each meal and help visualize portion sizes easily. It’s the lasting beauty of stainless steel - grows with your child and reduces waste.

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