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Switch to reusable lunch boxes and food wraps

Clear lunch box with sandwich and fruit snacks on a pale background.

Wednesday 24 February 2021

Cling film wrapped sandwiches and snacks are a common sight at lunch time, with 1.2 billion metres of cling film thrown away across the UK every year. Cling film is a single-use plastic, it's not commonly recycled and can be easily replaced with reusable alternatives that will keep your food just as fresh.

Swap to a reusable lunch box or wax wrap

By opting to use any reusable lunch box, bag or food wrap you can avoid this single-use plastic altogether. There are many options to choose from whether you are looking for something airtight or compact for on-the-go. Beeswax wraps are fully compostable and will last about a year as they’re made from cotton coated in beeswax. 

Recyclable alternatives

Although it's always best to opt for reusable alternatives where possible, there may be occasions where you need a recyclable option. Tin foil can be used to keep your food fresh and can be scrunched and placed in your kerbside metal recycling collection after use.

Find out more about plastic

Ideas to help reduce your plastic

Plastic recycling in Essex

Tips to improve your recycling

What's the difference between biodegradable, compostable and eco?