Five simple steps to reduce your food packaging (and save money while you’re at it)

Why reducing packaging matters

In the UK, an estimated five million tonnes of plastic are used every year, and almost half of that is packaging. That’s a huge amount of material that often ends up as waste, contributing to pollution and microplastics that harm oceans and wildlife.

But here’s the good news: reducing the packaging you buy is one of the easiest, most practical steps you can take to cut kitchen waste, save money and enjoy better-quality food. And it’s completely achievable with a few simple habits.

Five simple tips to help reduce packaging waste

 1. Create your own packaging kit

Reusable bags, jars, tubs, bottles, building your own packaging kit is one of the easiest ways to avoid single-use plastics.

Most of us already have containers at home, especially from takeaways. Instead of throwing them away, hang onto the tubs and lids and use them to store leftovers in the fridge or freezer. A small set of jars or cloth bags can also make shopping for loose produce much easier.

Benefits:

• Cuts down on single-use plastic

• Saves money on storage containers

• Helps you stay organised at home and on the go

 2. Buy loose produce

One of the simplest swaps you can make is choosing loose fruit and vegetables from your local market, farm shop, or supermarket.

Buying loose produce helps you:

• Reduce packaging waste

• Only buy what you need, which cuts food waste

• Choose seasonal ingredients, which are often fresher and cheaper

This small shift supports local food communities and encourages more mindful shopping.

 3. Buy long‑life items in bulk

When stored properly, foods like rice, pasta, oats, flour, nuts, and pulses last a long time, and they often come in smaller packaging when bought in bulk.

Why bulk buying helps:

• Saves money over time

• Reduces the amount of packaging per portion

• Keeps your cupboards well stocked with versatile, reliable ingredients

If you have refill shops near you, this is even easier.

4. Cook from scratch when you can

Cooking from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. Even simple meals, pasta with seasonal veg, soups, stir-fries, or tray bakes, cut down on the amount of packaging you bring home because you're using basic, raw ingredients rather than packaged meals.

It also:

• Lets you control seasoning and portion size

• Creates natural leftovers you can freeze

• Helps you slow down and enjoy the process of food preparation

A small shift toward home cooking can quickly reduce the amount of plastic in your kitchen.

 5. Double up and make your own “convenience foods”

Convenience foods are handy ,and there’s nothing wrong with using them. But making your own versions can save money and reduce packaging instantly.

Batch cook a few of your favourite dishes, portion them into reusable tubs, and freeze them. You’ll have quick meals ready to go without relying on heavily packaged shop-bought options.

This approach:

• Saves time on busy days

• Saves money

• Reduces plastic waste

• Ensures you eat meals you genuinely enjoy

It’s convenience, just without the extra packaging.

Small changes, big impact

Reducing your packaging isn’t about perfection, it’s about small, doable steps that make life easier.

Every reused jar and every loose‑veg purchase helps build a greener Wales. If you’d like to keep the momentum going, find out more about cutting food waste or how to use less energy while cooking.