Tips for Hosting a Plastic-Free, Plant-Powered Picnic
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Time to Read: 9 min
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Time to Read: 9 min
There’s something magical about going on a picnic during the summer. The combination of fresh air, delicious food, and the laughter of loved ones creates moments to cherish. But picnics aren’t just a way to spend quality time outdoors with your family. It’s also an opportunity to embrace healthy eating and sustainability.
And, while it’s great to plan picnics, sometimes they happen more organically at our house. There are evenings when one child has an outdoor activity around dinner time, so we have a simple picnic dinner together at the park. And, even more often, there are times when the kids need to get out of the house, so a picnic at our favorite playground is a great option for all of us. When this happens, I almost always text my mom-friends to see if they want to join in the fun.
The joy of laying out a picnic blanket and unpacking a basket full of goodies is undeniable - whether you’ve had the picnic planned or if it is a last-minute decision. But, it’s easy to overlook the impact that picnic habits and what you pack can have on the environment.
By making a few mindful choices, hosting picnics can be kinder to the planet and healthier for families. From packing eco-friendly dishware to creating plant-powered menu items, the following plastic-free picnic ideas will help you and your family enjoy a delightful and sustainable outdoor feast.
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Choosing to host a plastic-free picnic is more than just an eco-friendly trend. It’s also a step towards a healthier planet and a healthier family. You may not realize this, but the impact of plastic waste on our environment is enormous, with single-use plastics often contributing to the growing problem of pollution.
For instance, plastic utensils are a major source of pollution, with billions ending up in landfills and oceans yearly. One major problem with plastic utensils is that they don’t biodegrade. Instead, they break down into microplastics, contaminating ecosystems and threatening wildlife.
Switching to reusable options like stainless steel cutlery prevents pollution and supports sustainability. Stainless steel is durable, non-toxic, and doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into food.
And then there are the health risks that come with plastic utensils, especially for children. As we mentioned, plastic utensils break down into tiny particles, referred to as microplastics, and they have infiltrated our food chain. Research has shown that a staggering 88% of protein sources, including fish, chicken, and even plant-based foods, contain microplastics. These particles can disrupt hormonal functions, potentially leading to health issues such as infertility, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
A plastic-free picnic promotes mindfulness and intentional living and encourages families to think about their choices and their impact on the environment. Sustainable picnicking can become a fun family project, teaching children about environmental responsibility in a hands-on, engaging way.
Planning a plastic-free picnic is easier than you might think and incredibly rewarding. By making a few mindful choices, you can create a fun, eco-friendly outing that everyone will enjoy. Here are some essential plastic-free picnic ideas.
This one is easy: simply swap out disposable plastic plates, cups, and utensils for reusable options. Stainless steel dishware is a fantastic choice – it’s durable, non-toxic, and easy to clean. Stainless steel plates and cups are perfect for kids and adults alike, making your picnic both stylish and sustainable.
When you’re packing up your food, reach for glass or stainless steel containers over the plastic bags and wraps. These are not only better for the environment but also keep your food fresh and free from harmful chemicals. You can also use beeswax wraps or silicone covers to protect sandwiches and snacks. One thing I always do is reuse cloth to create lunch bags.
By selecting fresh, organic produce, you can reduce the chances of microplastic contamination. Organic farming practices avoid the use of plastic mulch and synthetic chemicals, making your food healthier and more sustainable. Plus, fresh fruits and veggies are always a hit at picnics!
When preparing your picnic dishes, avoid heating food in plastic containers. Heat can cause plastics to break down and release harmful chemicals into your food. Use glass or ceramic containers for cooking and reheating to keep your meals safe and healthy.
Ditch the single-use plastic bottles and bring your own reusable water bottles. Stainless steel bottles are a great choice because they keep your drinks cool and are free from harmful chemicals. Pack a few stainless steel straws for added convenience and eco-friendliness.
Even with all your sustainable efforts, there may still be some waste. Bring along a few reusable trash bags to collect any litter. This makes certain that your picnic spot stays clean and beautiful for the next visitors. This one isn’t just about being eco-friendly. It’s also just good manners.
By following these tips, you can host a picnic that’s not only enjoyable but also kind to the planet. It’s all about making simple, thoughtful choices that reduce plastic waste and promote a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. So, gather your friends and family, head outdoors, and enjoy a plastic-free picnic that celebrates the beauty of nature!
Of course, it isn’t a picnic without food, and planning the picnic menu can be the highlight of the experience, offering the opportunity to showcase a variety of fresh and flavorful options.
By planning out a plant-based picnic spread, you're not only creating something delicious but also a menu that aligns perfectly with a plastic-free approach. Gone are the days of soggy sandwiches and wilted greens. We're talking vibrant finger foods, refreshing salads bursting with flavor, and sweet treats that won't leave you feeling sluggish.
Consider bite-sized delights like colorful vegetable skewers with a creamy hummus dip, nestled in a reusable container. Imagine a rainbow salad overflowing with seasonal bounty all tossed in a homemade vinaigrette stored in a mason jar. Don't forget the crowd-pleasers! A chickpea salad is a great portable and satisfying option for sandwiches. If there’s going to be a grill at your picnic site, homemade veggie burgers can be prepared in advance and deliver a delicious meat-free alternative.
For dessert, ditch the store-bought cookies and their plastic packaging. Oatmeal raisin cookies – think chewy on the inside, crispy on the outside – baked fresh and stored in a vintage cookie tin, offer a delightful homemade touch. Feeling adventurous? Try fruit skewers drizzled with a touch of honey, or whip up a batch of refreshing fruit salad – perfect for a hot summer day. Remember, the key is to embrace fresh, seasonal ingredients and let your creativity guide your menu.
As the golden light begins to fade, and the first stars peek through the twilight sky, it's time to pack up your picnic paradise. But before you head home, remember to leave the park as pristine as you found it.
Planning a plastic-free picnic might seem daunting at first, but with a little planning and these handy plastic-free picnic ideas, you're well on your way to creating an unforgettable experience.
It's a chance to savor delicious food, reconnect with nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime – all while leaving a positive impact on the planet. So, pack your sunshine, grab your reusable gear, and get ready to embark on your next plastic-free adventure!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.