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It’s easy to view a pre-packaged salad or a bag of apples as a harmless purchase, but when you realize that millions of tons of debris wind up in our world’s oceans every year, much of which is plastic litter, you might want to think twice about how much plastic you purchase. From single sweet potatoes to tubes of toothpaste, it seems like stores will put anything and everything in unnecessary plastic these days, and one Instagram account is fed-up with this waste.
Below, you’ll find a list of photos from the Pointless Packaging page, which aims to call out companies which could be much more sustainable, as well as a conversation we were lucky enough to have with Ariana Palmieri of Greenify-Me. Keep reading to learn more about minimizing your own waste, and be sure to upvote the pics that remind you that our planet deserves better.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Tobias Reaper 2 years ago
if only Bananas came in some sort of natural biodegradable packaging
SCP 4666 2 years ago
They did the same with peeled oranges. Scientist should invent a natural packaging🥴
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Michelle C 2 years ago
It’s already packaged in a peel…the packaging is also an indication of the banana’s freshness, so this packaging is pointless indeed!!
Pointless Packaging has a simple mission: calling out companies and stores that create much more waste than necessary. It’s easy for consumers to be ignorant to how much plastic they’re purchasing, so this account aims to inform them of how they can make greener, more conscious choices. The Instagram’s bio states that, “We’re not going away until the packaging does,” and shares a link to a GreenPeace petition asking for grocery stores in the UK to ditch plastic packaging. “UK supermarkets currently generate 900,000 tonnes of plastic packaging every year,” the petition explains. “But our oceans can’t stomach any more plastic! From turtles entangled in six pack rings to whales with stomachs full of plastic bags, the effects of plastic pollution can be devastating.”
To help further the group’s cause, Pointless Packaging has shared hundreds of photos of unnecessarily wrapped pieces of produce and pre-packaged foods. Thankfully, the account has amassed over 32k followers, so there are many consumers passionate about reducing the world’s waste. But we still have a long way to go. Perhaps this list will even inspire you pandas to cut down on your own plastic usage and overall waste, every little bit helps!
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#2
Isabella 2 years ago
I suppose this is done to avoid dehydration of the vegetables, but still it is outrageous!
Ace 2 years ago
Carrots are very robust and will stay good for weeks without dehydrating in the right conditions. No excuse for this.
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Glen Ellyn 2 years ago
What the...? Thankfully, I've never come across this example of utter waste. 🙄🤦🏻♀️
#3
miguel fernandez 2 years ago
it's a tradition in some countries to eat 12 grapes at New year's eve!!! You eat one with every chime
olaff 422 2 years ago
Imagine buying a bunch of grapes and then pulling the twelve you want to eat off the bunch like a peasant.
KitKatss 2 years ago
Those gooseberries could just be put in a basket or anything else that doesn't require that much plastic, also, not that many berries in that package
Couragetcd 2 years ago
Until I read the posts I thought it was little jingle bells packaged in the shape of a larger chiming bell. So, grapes are somewhat better even if the plastic is not needed or used the rest of the year.
If you’re wondering what the big deal is when it comes to plastic waste, Ines Gendre at Greenly Institute explained the issue in detail earlier this year. She noted that every “cycle” of plastic’s life is harmful for the environment, including the extraction of fossil fuels, plastic production, distribution of plastic products and the ways in which we dispose of plastic.
“The production process releases greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere, exacerbating human-induced climate change,” Gendre explains. “So, too, does the distribution side of the life cycle. As goods produced around the world are intended for international markets, more fossil fuels need to be burned to deliver the products.”
And unfortunately, as plastics seem to be everywhere nowadays, the ways they’re disposed of have become problematic as well. For example, the United States creates 34.5 million tons of plastic every year, yet only about 9% of it is recycled.
#4
Chris breseman 2 years ago
Ok... hear me out... imagine going to wherever with the Corona light and lime. And you don't have a knife to cut said lime.
Out of chocolate 2 years ago
(Psssst - you can peel a lime like an orange and separate the segments ;) )
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Justin Trouble 2 years ago
If you have to add fruit to your beer to make it drinkable, then you need to switch to a beer that tastes good on its own. You don't need training wheels for beer.
Steven Meyer 2 years ago
Would make more sense if they cut a solid lime in slices, and then shrink wrapped that entire lime. I would use less shrink wrap, and less packaging.
John’s Girl 2 years ago
Great idea with regard to matching the products, but terrible TERRIBLE waste of packaging supplies.
#5
Milk_Bread 2 years ago (edited)
i would accidentally buy it bc i would think its a bath bomb 💪💀
Steven Meyer 2 years ago
All this stuff is probably done during the height of Covid when people were so paranoid
#6
Couragetcd 2 years ago
It's bad enough they put a waxy coating on most apples for transport that takes forever to wash off
Arthur Waite 2 years ago
Probably cuts down on shoplifting (won't fit in a pocket), and browse-and-munch like I see in my local store.
Tyranamar Seuss 2 years ago
If you need to steal a pomegranate you should probably just be given a pomegranate.
Load More Replies...There doesn’t seem to be any perfect solution for disposing of plastic either. About 12% of it ends up being incinerated, but this is an environmental disaster as well, due to the fumes contributing to greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere. And due to the fact that most long-lasting plastics take a staggering amount of time to decompose, up to 500 years, throwing them away is doing our planet a disservice. 40% of plastics are single-use, such as bags, straws, cups, plastic wrap on foods, etc., and are particularly damaging to our oceans.
“At the current rate of primary plastic production and disposal, plastic could outnumber fish in the ocean by 2050,” Gendre writes. “Many aquatic animals consume plastic, believing it to be prey. Plastic threatens ecosystems, lowers biodiversity, and can even change the flow of nutrients between plants and animals.”
#7
The Fairy Dogmother 2 years ago
As someone with severe arthritis that makes peeling fruit and veg painful, I find this brilliant!
Tiny Dancer 2 years ago
Noooooo! Selling naked kiwis should be illegal! If you're not eating the skin, you're missing the whole kiwi experience.
#8
Dragons Exist 2 years ago
They are 30¢ at my local King Soopers... Without the styrofoam
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Monday 2 years ago
Probably only packaged like this cause they're yesterday's leftovers. They can't go in the bakery case with the fresh stuff and they're more likely to be sold if packaged individually. It sucks that it's so much plastic but it's fairly normal.
Kosh1k 2 years ago
It might've also been for hygiene reasons, especially during the plague. If its a self-serve bakery you can't guarantee people won't fondle the pastries with their hands (instead of using the tongs).
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Doug 2 years ago
How else would you package a single donut on a shelf, where you don't have dedicated staff, and don't want people reaching into a self-serving bin? Seems like a cleaner way to sell these in a covid world. Assuming there are packages with more just not seen of course... this is brutal if you want a dozen and the only option is 12 of these.
sturmwesen 2 years ago
paper bags with little see through windows have way less plastic
Load More Replies... Couragetcd 2 years ago
Since most places have the waxed paper bags for single baked goods, they could have 1display item and the rest in labeled bags
#9
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
You pay 30 euro cents for the cutlery and what ever the cost is for the meat you select to be cooked there and then. Morrisons is trying something similar to this where you can visit the counters and buy a pizza, a salad or some fresh cooked chicken to eat in a designated seating area. They are still setting it up where I live. This one probably lets you buy something a seasoned steak medium rare and 2 sides and the cost is added to the price of the cutlery then you can go and sit in the dining areas inside or outside depending on the weather
Colleen Glim 2 years ago
Still absolutely unnecessary packing. Charge people for the plastic cutlery they need and then give it to them minus the styrofoam and clingwrap
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Michelle C 2 years ago
This one actually sort of makes sense, especially if the wood isn’t sealed in some way.
When it comes to seeking solutions for the world’s harmful plastic use, it’s important for governments to have legislation in place that will limit or ban plastic production and distribution. The state of California recently passed a law eliminating all single-use plastics, and 10 years from now, all packaging in the Golden State will need to be recyclable or compostable. Canada has also passed a similar law, nation-wide, and aims to reach zero plastic waste by 2030. While these are great steps in the right direction, it’s important that these ideas spread worldwide.
#10
LillieMean 2 years ago
I don't complain that the vegetables are pre-cut because it makes it easier for people who have problems with their hands, but it's infuriating how poorly they are packed, too much plastic for such a small amount of pepper. These could be packed more wisely.
Aidan Pite 2 years ago
"Oh thank goodness, I saved myself ten whole seconds not having to slice this bell pepper or having to wash the knife myself!" *takes out knife to open package* "Waaiiiit a minute..."
Stephanie Longo 2 years ago
Some people have difficulties cutting things, but this packaging is obscene
Chris breseman 2 years ago
If you can't cut a bell pepper, taco bell might be best for dinner.
bottomless.abyss.of.bordem 2 years ago
If you have a problem cutting things(cheese), Taco Bell is never best for dinner.
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Gustav Gallifrey 2 years ago
Well, if people weren't so red-hot keen to sue the pants off suppliers because their fruit was 'contaminated'...
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Nizumi 2 years ago
Playing Devil's Advocate - in this case, there's isn't, since we generally eat the skin as well. Totally agree with you tho'. Just wash it when you get home. If it's a eat-right-now-thing, rub it on your shirt or something.
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Trophy Husband 2 years ago
They do that in airport lounges so you can take it in your bag and it won't get dirty.
Arthur Waite 2 years ago
Well, you don't see any apples on the shelf with a bite taken out, do you?
#12
Gina Babe 2 years ago
I don't know Morrison's but it seems they are trying to single handedly kiII the planet
BingoMark 2 years ago
Now how the other packet in the back got 2? Instant scam. Screenshot...327a59.png 
Fat Harry 2 years ago
This one is clearly labelled as "KEBAB", singular. For all you know the other one is labelled as containing two kebabs and costs twice as much. This is not a scam.
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If you’re wondering what you can do as an individual to help combat the impact that plastics are having on our planet, one route that many take is to start living zero or low-waste lifestyles. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average person produces a whopping 1.5 tons of solid waste per year, so any effort to reduce that impact can go a long way.
To learn more about what it’s like to go zero waste, Bored Panda reached out to Ariana Palmieri, the woman behind Greenify-Me. Ariana shares helpful tips and tricks for going zero waste in the least painful way possible, as well as information on why sustainability is so important. And lucky for us, she was happy to have a chat about how Greenify-Me began. “When I first started my blog, it was actually a green beauty blog,” Ariana shared. “I found myself accumulating a LOT of beauty products with ambiguous packaging. I didn't know how to recycle it, and sometimes I didn't even use the products.”
#13
Remy 2 years ago
I 50% get this one... it's not a whole pineapple sliced up and put into a package. It's a few bites you can grab and go and not get sticky. It's not a banana in its own wrapper... This is also good for packing inside lunches for quick and convenient healthy snacks. Do I think this is the best use of plastic? No. Do I think this is the worst use of plastic? Also, no.
Doug 2 years ago
Agreed. It gives someone doing a grab-n-go an option other than a candy bar.
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bottomless.abyss.of.bordem 2 years ago
Like to know the price for this pinky sized slice of pineapple.
Sandra Morison 2 years ago
About the same as buying whole pineapple and putting the slices in a reusable tub
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Bi Emo 007 ️ 2 years ago
This is one of the biggest wastes of plastic I have ever seen in my life. Just get a big (bowl? Tin? Container?) of Nutella and call it a day
TeenieMeanie 2 years ago
IDK if this is a thing, but my local Costco sells Nutella by the gallon with a pump dispenser.
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Darth Kittius 2 years ago
Logically, I know it's a terrible idea. But my heart loves the tiny nutella
Monday 2 years ago
I would buy it for that exact purpose. I can think of a few uses around the home for a big bottle like that and can use the little ones as leftover containers.
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Mi So 2 years ago
We had friends use these are part of the wedding favours they gave out when they got married. The groom loves Nutella, the bride jam, so they did a little box with a tiny jam, tiny Nutella, and a little spreader with a heart shaped handle that said “spread the love”. It was a super cute favour that actually got used, unlike so many that are just useless pieces of junk. But on the day to day…no use for the tiny containers.
Cyndielouwhoo 2 years ago
I'd have plenty of uses: beads, mints, sewing kit, snacks or candy for the car, portion out condiments for lunches (and rewash), little plants, makeup accessories, fasteners, bobby pins, rubber bands, paper clips, snacking vessels that my cats can't easily access, lil brushes, mix-ins for ice cream, curly ribbon, tags, hair ties, etc.
Load More Replies... GoldfishCrackers 2 years ago
If I were a kid and got one of these at Halloween, I would loose my mind with joy. (Yeah, yeah, big huge bottle not necessary)
#15
CD King 2 years ago
So, I'm not allowed to have a straw or a plastic grocery bag. I'm getting bullied into buying an electric car and have developed and anxiety disorder about recycling but this is ok? Where is anything on this list ok?
Isabella 2 years ago
Fully agree with you. Nothing so far in this list is ok.
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Yoyo 2 years ago
Tbf this is kinda ok. The bark can come off really easily, especially when you transport it. No plastic note would stick on it either.
Robert Trebor 2 years ago
Then wrap it in paper. Paper decomposes. Or maybe they think that because paper is made from wood that it is perverted to wrap wood in paper.
Load More Replies... GoldfishCrackers 2 years ago
I think the reasoning on this is to keep customers/workers from getting splinters, and to keep down the mess.
Two_rolling_black_eyes 2 years ago
Not advocating doing this but these are meant to be sold at a retail location from a shelf to urban/suburban people with a single use type firepit. The wrap is designed to keep the bark from flaking off in transit, in the store, and in the trunk of a car.
MiTmite9 2 years ago
Everyone here is missing the fact that NONE OF US should be burning wood. The particulate matter (PM2.5) and cocktail of toxic chemicals that pollute the air due to wood burning are harmful not only to one's lungs, but also heart and brain. That "sweet" smell of wood smoke that people love so much is actually the chemical benzene and carcinogenic. Stay healthy, keep the air clean and healthy. DO NOT burn wood.
Spittnimage 2 years ago
Don't want the wood to get wet, it won't light then I guess is their thinking.
“So when I stumbled across the zero waste movement in 2017 and learned the average American generates ~4.9lbs of trash per day, it hit me that I was a part of that statistic. And I didn't want to be,” Ariana continued. “So I was inspired to make the switch to a more low waste lifestyle (and my blog has reflected that ever since). No lifestyle choice has ever resonated with me more!”
We also asked Ariana why she thinks grocery stores and companies are so determined to package products unnecessarily. “I think for grocery stores, a lot of it comes down to trying to extend the shelf life of their products,” the green expert shared. “Plastic wrap can preserve perishable food items beyond their natural life. While this does technically help prevent some food waste, most of it is still wasted if grocery stores don't meet their sell-by dates.”
#16
Michelle C 2 years ago
This is why the banana is decaying much more quickly than it would otherwise….
Happy Okapi 2 years ago
Gosh, I wish bananas had a natural biodegradable wrapping and didn't need to be wrapped in plastic. Oh wait...
#17
Mr.Li 2 years ago
Is chipotle supposed to be so e kinda insult? Honest question here
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Michelle C 2 years ago
Just when I think this list couldn’t have a more wasteful example of packaging…. No wonder the folks at Pointless Packaging are ticked!
#18
Pickles, Pennies, & Ponies 2 years ago (edited)
Was this during the height of covid? That's the only reason I can think of. Even after the covid scare settled down a bit, I felt weird picking produce up and putting it back if I wasn't satisfied with it. Like people were watching me and judging me if I touched it and then put it back.
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
Seeing some of these individually wrapped ones I'm starting to wonder if this was a covid prevention measure. Wrap the produce so people can't cough/sneeze/grope it with their grubby, germy hands?
“As for companies, I believe sometimes they think plastic-free packaging alternatives will be more expensive. For example, cornstarch peanuts that dissolve in water vs. styrofoam peanuts,” Ariana told Bored Panda. “But the truth is, companies can find ways to creatively package a product without excessive plastic and remain on a budget. Upcycling is a great solution. For example, using shredded newspaper, magazines or scrap paper to cushion their products is a cost-effective alternative. Or simply using smaller boxes to package products.”
#19
Historyharlot93 2 years ago
It’s wrapped in plastic so you can cook it in the microwave in about 6 minutes instead of 45 in the oven. The plastic wrap is what helps cook it, I guess it’s keeping the moisture in so it steams it. Not sure of the science, but it works.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
Potatoes and kumara/sweet potatoes cook better in the microwave if pierced with a fork or toothpick, wrapped in greaseproof/kitchen paper. Microwaving both of these vegetables in plastic transfers the plastic chemical components, including micro plastic particles, into the potato.
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Adrienne Kushner 2 years ago
Take your sweet potato home, wash it off, and poke a few holes in to let out the steam. This is what happens when they stop teaching homeEc in schools.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago (edited)
So, to give a little more information on kumara. They are not a potato or part of the nightshade family. They are convolvulaceae - Morning Glory - family. They take about 18 weeks from planting the vine in late winter/early spring, weather dependent, to ready for harvest in late summer/ early autumn. They should then be stored, dry and dark, for about 3 months to develop the sweetness. If this isn't done, the kumara are hard and fibrous and lack the sweetness. They do not soften during storage unless they are scrubbed clean, damaging the skin. Fully ripe, they rarely take longer than 5 minutes to cook. They should not be boiled, rather steamed, sauteed etc to keep them sweet and not mushy. Grown, harvested and stored properly, kumara don't soften. If stored in a damp area they will sprout and can be planted.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
Why, on God's green earth would you do this to kumara? How are you supposed to check how firm they are? When I buy them at the supermarket they are never this clean and polished.
Kira Okah 2 years ago (edited)
See the shelf label? "Sweet Potatoes. 8oz, Microwave". There is your answer. Key word is "microwave". Some people believe that potatoes - sweet and not sweet - come out of the microwave better if wrapped in cling wrap. This plastic acts in exactly the same way as the cling wrap while using less overall plastic. These are purely for grab and go either on the way to work or trying to rush home quickly. Very unlikely that you're going to be checking anything.
Load More Replies... #20
Coolwhip 2 years ago
Imagine getting home and unwrapping it and its an avocado lol.
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#21
TeenieMeanie 2 years ago
Max White is who you have to defeat after Karen.
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Manda Hart 2 years ago
Even the full size ones come packaged in unnecessary plastic (with instruction to recycle it). It really could be sold in just a cardboard box. But it's the price point (£24.00 in the UK!!) that they're trying to justify with fancy packaging. For a toothpaste that doesn't whiten. :savage eye roll:
The low waste expert says the first step we can take as consumers to limit our waste is to shop as consciously as possible. “For me, that looks like opting for fresh, unpackaged produce at the grocery store,” she noted. “I really love shopping at the farmers market because it's so easy to shop plastic-free there. You go with reusable tote bags and reusable produce bags that can be washed and reused for years to come. The farmers have no problem with it. Plus, you won't find any annoying produce stickers on your items at a farmers market.”
“I also recommend shopping at sustainable online shops when you can, like EarthHero, Life Without Plastic, Tiny Yellow Bungalow, or EcoRoots. I have a full list of my favorite zero waste stores on the blog,” Ariana continued. “Shopping at stores and shops that are aligned with your ideals will only help create more of them. Another option is thrifting or asking loved ones for hand-me-downs: This gives items a second life and reduces waste/overconsumption.”
#22
Manda Hart 2 years ago
No idea, but in addition to trashing the planet, it sure does inflate the price.
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#23
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
Halituli tilitali jallati jallan, Tilitali talitali helevantaa, Rimpatirallaa ripirapirallaa...
LillieMean 2 years ago (edited)
Rumpatiruppa ripirampuu Jakkarittaa rippari lapalan Tulituli lallan tipiran tuu Jatsu tsappari dikkari dallan Tittari tillan titstan dullaa...
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Frances M 2 years ago
This is to avoid contamination either way with a very tightly controlled fast food setting and acceptable to any parent of young kids that have mushed a banana in the skin
Wilfredo 2 years ago
Who cares if the peel is "contaminated ", normal folks don't eat it, but instead eat the fruit inside....
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But all of the blame shouldn’t fall on consumers, companies should also be held accountable for their part in creating waste. “It's so important to write to businesses and corporations about their excessive packaging,” Ariana told Bored Panda. “I have a whole blog post that covers this topic. Making your opinion known is a great way to get the ball rolling. Signing petitions that are against plastic pollution and excessive packaging is another good idea. You can even start one yourself.”
#25
Frances M 2 years ago
Not so much the plastic to protect the peeled and sliced fruit from flies but the price is insane!!
XenoMurph 2 years ago
the problem is that its peeled and sliced, thus needing so much packaging. If you cannot peel and slice a kiwi, then you should ask your carer to do it for you.
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Marie A (Blondebat) 2 years ago
I am also much more upset at the price. But if you grab it for lunch...
lenxia buda 2 years ago
Not going any further with this list, it truly disgusts me.. It's never up to the companies to take responsibility but up to the consumer to "make smarter choices, blah blah"... Plain stupidity the law allows this
#26
GoldfishCrackers 2 years ago
I’ve thought about this one, and I honestly think it’s so people are less likely to accidentally throw them away. The cost of mailing new hardware or driving to the store for replacements, etc, must seem higher than the extra plastic here. At least that’s the conclusion I came to recently while putting to get her something from IKEA.
Two_rolling_black_eyes 2 years ago
The bag is made big so it doesn't get lost in all the other packaging. These look like mounting screws for the bracket of a large monitor/TV. The box for it could be 70"+/178cm+ and a small bag of screws could easily be thrown out in error.
#27
Monday 2 years ago
This is packaged specifically for restaurants, not consumers. It's vacuum sealed so it stays fresh longer and pre-peeled so they can just add it to the meal without taking the time to cut and peel it.
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago
It looks like it would take more time to get it out of package than it would take to slice an actual avocado
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--- 2 years ago
Unlike the usual "ready to eat" avocado which is just a regular avocado in a carton tray and plastic bag
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Ban-One 2 years ago (edited)
Even though more plastic, I do understand this one. It happens quite often that one buys an avocado, cuts and opens it just to find out it's half-way rotten inside. Even with all the so-called hacks it still happens. Like this at least you know your salad, burger, guacamole etc. will be alright.
“But most importantly, make sure to vote for people who have strong climate policy as part of their campaign,” Ariana continued. “Local elections are important and you can contact your local representatives about excessive plastic packaging and plastic pollution. Call or write to them and ask them to support things like the Break Free From Plastic Act (BFFPPA), a comprehensive bill that aims to reduce plastic pollution throughout the entire lifecycle of the material, from its source to waste.”
If you’d like to learn more from Ariana about how to start minimizing your waste, be sure to visit her blog Greenify-Me right here, subscribe to her newsletter, or check out her free e-book 10 Ways to Reduce Trash right here!
#28
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
Here if you buy parsley or any kind of herb really they come in a planter as standard, which is weird but ok. That parsley is well and truly rotten btw.
#29
Colleen Glim 2 years ago
So we are now wrapping wine bottles in plastic to prevent contamination?!
We know you’ve been told a million times to reduce, reuse and recycle, but those three R’s have never been more important than they are now. Keep upvoting the pics that you find most atrocious, pandas, and feel free to share this list with your friends to inspire as many people as possible to cut down on their plastic waste and vote for legislation that will do the same. And if you’re interested in checking out another Bored Panda article discussing minimizing waste, we recommend this list next!
#30
HelluvaHedgehogAlien 2 years ago
I like bay leaves. But not that much that I would buy something that uses up 20 times more plastic in the packaging than the actual product
Adrienne Kushner 2 years ago
How difficult is it to grow a little kitchen garden on a windowsill?
#31
Brandi VanSteenwyk 2 years ago
I don't know about that. I would have to see a banana next to it.
Load More Replies... Kira Okah 2 years ago
Welcome to Japan. If it wasn't wrapped up then it quite likely won't sell.
Sans Serif 2 years ago
Actually, much of over packaging originated in 1982 in Chicago with the "Tylenol Murders". Nothing has been the same since! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_Tylenol_murders
Load More Replies... #32
YetAnotherSarah 2 years ago
Notfornuthin but chiles are the one fruit/vegetable I'm guaranteed to put in a plastic bag when shopping.
DancingPanda 2 years ago
This one isn’t too bad because this way people don’t have to touch them and risk getting the pepper grease on their skin or eyes
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Happy Okapi 2 years ago
I've never tried green chillies stir fried before. It sounds nice - nicer minus the plastic though,!
Brenda 2 years ago
Tex-Mex - Texas Mexican food. Not true Mexican. Most Mexican restaurants are Tex-Mex, but there are plenty of real Mexican restaurants. You may have to look for them, but it's worth it!
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
I like both, but they're not remotely comparable.
Load More Replies... Bi Emo 007 ️ 2 years ago
What is Texmex? Because it’s either something unassuming or something horribly racist
Chumbo 2 years ago
It's a style of food that originated in South Texas. Mexicans immigrated to the US and brought their own cultural foods and tastes that, over time, fused with American styles, this creating a delicious hybrid cuisine from both cultures known as Tex-Mex. Stop trying to make everything racist...
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Ace 2 years ago
Eh? Of course they are. One variety of chilli amongst many others. Green or red.
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#33
~cornstarchi~ 2 years ago
Ok ik it's not the point, but is no one gonna talk about the ripeness scale!!!
Robert T 2 years ago
The tart ones wear colourful lipstick and high heels and stand around on street corners. ;-)
Load More Replies... Frances M 2 years ago
For people who no longer have the ability to peel and separate orange pieces and ability good
TeenieMeanie 2 years ago
Speaking as someone young with noodles for limbs, the plastic tubs are not easier than peeling a fruit rind.
Load More Replies... GlitterPanda 2 years ago
This one is actually helpful to people who have physical issues that prevent them from peeling oranges and such.
SGSG 2 years ago
Already cut fruit loose majority of their nutrients. Just get a fresh one, and peel it. It's cheaper, more nutritious, and easy to do.
Kira Okah 2 years ago
And the old lady or person with a missing limb who can't easily peel it? That would be the point of these.
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#35
Robert T 2 years ago
I'd be happier if they were chopped as well. I cry like a baby when cutting onions.
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
I'm not ashamed to admit that chopped onions in the freezer are something I use often. Chopping onions means a long trip to wash my eyes every time too
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Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
Get the skin a bit wet if it's giving too much trouble. Remove dry what comes easy off dry first though
Load More Replies... Ken Beattie 2 years ago
I don't get the problem here. Are they complaining about a literal bagful of onions (peeled or not). Do they just expect you to throw half a dozen onions in the bottom of the shopping trolley?
OhBlahDi OhBlahDa 2 years ago
South Africa makes the list with our beloved Woolies. Have to admit I get the peeled onions when I can; feel like I'm getting my money's worth by not paying for the weight of the peel.
Idkwhattoput 2 years ago
Last time I cut onions I wore a full face snorkel mask- while holding a unlit match in my mouth- while doing it near the freezer- I did not succeed
#36
#37
#38
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
Yeah when the bored cashier who doesn't care just shoves it into your reusable, green grocery bag sideways or upside down. I hate that they just don't give a s**t. They do it with premade lasagne and all the meat sauce ends up at one end. So you're trying to smoosh it back into place before cooking >_<
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#39
Colleen Glim 2 years ago
Those are plantains. And again 30 seconds with a knife will produce a peeled plantain. And the “wrapper” is compostable!
#40
Edda Kamphues 2 years ago
Mal ganz ehrlich: wer ist denn zu faul um seine Tomaten, Kiwis, Ananas etc. selber zu schneiden??? Mir fehlen die Worte!
Adrienne Kushner 2 years ago
Buy some cheese at the cheese/dairy counter before walking over to the produce section for some tomatoes. While there, don't forget to buy some fresh basil because you probably can't grow it on your windowsill. Really!
Teresa O'Neill 2 years ago
Have people just got that lazy that everything needs to be cut and peeled for them I like going into a supermarket and everything is laid out with out extra packaging everywhere should be the same
#41
Kira Okah 2 years ago
To overwrap; to cover with a wrapping. Doesn't mean to cover with too much wrapping.
Load More Replies... #42
#43
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
Judging by the stem, it's already turning because the moisture can't escape
#44
Anony Mouse 2 years ago
This is likely for a hotel or something. I wouldn't appreciate an unwrapped swab.
The Scout 2 years ago
As you can see, they ARE packed individually, just packed again into an outer bag then.
Load More Replies... Fat Harry 2 years ago
These should be entirely plastic free. I buy them in a cardboard box with paper stalks. There's no need for this product to contain ANY plastic.
Load More Replies... #45
Chris breseman 2 years ago
I've seen this in the mall here a few times with high end sneakers. I *think* the point is not to have you try those on but ask for a pair (set aside by size) to try on. It forces salesperson-customer engagement and cuts down on the number of people trying on numerous different shoes while helping polute the earth through plastic waste. You know.. corporate think stuff.
Kira Okah 2 years ago
This is almost certainly a reseller, very much a reseller thing and not a corporate thing. It so that potential customers can touch the shoe without damaging it, because the shoe has appreciated in value (these shoes are probably worth several hundred at least) and they don't have stock to spare for people to damage and cover in grime.
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Verena 2 years ago
To protect them from getting stained, when on display at a mall where people eat pizza, icecream and then touching random things
Load More Replies... #46
Terry Tobias 2 years ago
You should be able to touch and smell produce. That's how you tell if something's fresh, plus it's a sensory experience that can help boost sales. Produce should be washed before consuming anyway.This list is making me sad.
#47
Anouk Badwolf 2 years ago
this one is non traitée, so the peel is safe to eat as well i guess this explains the packaging
#48
Michelle C 2 years ago
I don’t think I can look at any more of these without getting annoyed… I just can’t! This list is also a good reminder to be more conscious of what I buy, too, even though I generally try to be careful!
#49
#50
Somewhere in Ohio 2 years ago
Yep — a Glass jar would of been better. But I agree .
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#53
#54
Lara Verne 2 years ago
Local store just put very ripe bananas to microtene bad and sell it at a discount. Not a great idea, but it seems like lesser evil than styrofoam.
#55
#56
PowellSkier 2 years ago
Pretty sure these need to be compartmented like this or they'll start eating each other.
#57
#58
Frances M 2 years ago
All pre-sliced cheese comes in plastic wrap to stop flies and other contaminants
Wax0nWax0ff 2 years ago
Sure, but did it have to be huge or made or thick plastic? Or could Kraft Singles style packaging have done the trick?
Load More Replies... #59
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
Look at the sweating in the bag! The poor artichoke would last much longer on an open shelf and not be a mold hazard
#63
M O'Connell 2 years ago
Again, this is a "ready to cook" product. You can get the same steam-retaining effect by wrapping your potato in a dishtowel before you microwave it.
Michael Violette 2 years ago
Yeah. The microwaveable potato. These are common and understandable.
Duck Syone 2 years ago
They tricked you good. You can microwave all potatoes and yams with out plastic. Take a knife, poke holes in it and stick it in the microwave until it becomes soft.
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#67
#74
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
I'm assuming, because there are so many examples of individually wrapped fruit and vegetables on this thread that they're priced per unit rather than weight?
Kira Okah 2 years ago
They are typically priced per unit if wrapped, yes. And annoyingly in some places it is cheaper to buy the wrapped ones over the loose ones, at least ime when I worked at a supermarket. Can't compare any more because I don't have access to a supermarket.
Load More Replies... #75
Jesse Setliffe 2 years ago
Now I know a good insult for a British guy who looks like a gross, shapeless, lump of flesh: A Cumberland Sausage.
Robert T 2 years ago
That abomination is NOT a Cumberland sausage. Cumberland sauages are delicious. That looks like a reject from the turd factory.
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#76
Lakota Wolf 2 years ago
Do I even want to know how they "wrote" MERRY CHRISTMAS on the outside of an APPLE?
M O'Connell 2 years ago
Probably with a black-text sticker before the apple was ripe. The red color of an apple is the result of anthrocyanin compounds, the production of which is regulated by exposure to UV light. This is why apples are often not a uniform color all the way around, because they are exposed to more light on one side. If UV light is blocked completely by a sticker, the skin beneath will remain a much lighter color.
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#77
Michael Violette 2 years ago
I'm guessing Costco or Sam's club. These are quite common and cheaper than keeping them behind a case.
#79
#80
Duck Syone 2 years ago
Alot of plastic recycling is down cycling. You can't remake it indefinitely.
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#82
Andrea Squires 2 years ago
You can't even see what you're buying! You just have to assume the potato is ok in there?
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
You would wrap them for the grill or oven anyways, but I'm not sure I would trust the quality control for them. Now we can't see if the potatoes look and feel ok or have they gone off
#84
#86
#88
Monday 2 years ago
I have more understanding for these than the kiwi ones. You might not want a whole pineapple.
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
And pineapple is hella annoying to peel and cut because of the stingy bits
Load More Replies... #89
Robert T 2 years ago
It's half a cucumber. What would you like them to do with the cut end? Leave it open?
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
to cling wrap it so it doesn't breathe instead of this
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#92
#93
#94
#95
Frances M 2 years ago
For people who only eat one egg a week and don’t want to throw out the other 5.
Monday 2 years ago
Packaged like this because if you let them lie loose some of them will break. It makes sense. Plus the little tubs are reusable.
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#97
Wax0nWax0ff 2 years ago
Honestly, I kinda like it. I understand it’s wasteful, but it’s not uncommon for me to get home and realize the produce looked better on the outside than inside. It would be nice to see what you’re actually getting
Somewhere in Ohio 2 years ago
I suppose if there’s only 1 / week kinda thing - sure!
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#99
Chris breseman 2 years ago
Not a fan. Though, it does cut down on the random hands digging through the bean pile.
#101
M O'Connell 2 years ago
I can't speak for each individual fruit because I can't tell what variety they all are, but the major commercial varieties of most fruits are the 'major commercial varieties' because of how easily they transport. Red Delicious apples (for example) are mealy and taste like nothing but they are extremely durable in transit. The apples which were cultivated for flavor rather than durability are MUCH better, but are hard to get unless you go to the orchard yourself or they go through the logistics chain handled with kid gloves.
#102
#103
#105
#106
LillieMean 2 years ago
and the package says they are ready to eat, so they are already cooked. However, why is there another plastic package on top of the vacuum package?
Load More Replies... #107
Fat Harry 2 years ago
No it isn't. They sell them in four packs, but this isn't from one. The label is wrong for that.
Load More Replies... #108
Michael Violette 2 years ago
Quite normal for a vanilla bean. They're expensive and you don't get much.
#109
#112
Anouk Badwolf 2 years ago
in hungary these things are often loose and i just put them in my canvas shopping bag and wash them thoroughly before using them
Load More Replies... #113
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
I understand getting a pre cut coconut because opening those needs experience and the right tools if you don't want to cut your own leg off
Lara Verne 2 years ago
Yeah, but coconuts are not exactly easy to bruise, so why they need foam netting?
Load More Replies... Verena 2 years ago
This would require an entire processing, sterilization and botteling factory. Which is also not environmentally friendly. Plus the bottles need to be recycled. It stays more fresh like this.
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#116
#117
Chris breseman 2 years ago
This is a cleanliness/hygienic issue. Are you more likely to use that on your face or pull one from the pile that everyone in that room before you could've touched?
Ichi as usual 2 years ago
I mean regardless the reason - which is also understandable -, it is paper which comes in paper. That is reusable, or biodegradable. There are many many many other things that are more wasteful than this.
#118
#119
Verena 2 years ago
It is a reasonable price if the animals were treated well, from birth til and including the slaughtering and all involved in the chain (farm, transportation, slaughterhouse, packaging, supermarket) fairly paid. Then it would even be cheap
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#121
Frances M 2 years ago
I have to admit that holding a cactus like this will save a lot of screaming on my part getting it from the shop to my window sill.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
It's easier for the checkout operator to scan it too. It also makes the cactus less susceptible to damage.
Load More Replies... #122
Frances M 2 years ago
Very good way to freeze them and if you’re single then you get the additional benefit of bulk buying cost savings
Remi (He/Him) 2 years ago
As a bonus you can gently melt one when you need by putting the fillet piece package in lukewarm water. These look handy
Load More Replies... #123
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What do you think ?
G R 2 years ago
Obviously a lot of these are terrible and there's no excuse, but the pre-cut fruit and veg ones are essential for disabled people who don't have use of or have limited use of their hands and can't physically peel/cut fruit and beg themselves.
DC 2 years ago
Right and legit! But ... some 60 % or so is sold that way. I'd be surprised if that many people are disabled in a way preventing them from cutting vegetables. It's laziness and price-drivery that mainly cause these things to be so omnipresent currently.
Load More Replies... Nizumi 2 years ago
For the argument that this is for sanitation: Well, since most of these offenses are with Waitrose, Morrisons, and big grocery stores like that, have UV light hand sanitizing stations at the entrance turnstile. The turnstile won't let you in until you put your hands in the box. For the argument that this is for people with disabilities: 1. Some of this packaging is difficult even for able handed people, so that's not a solid argument. 2. Fruit and Veg cutting stations in the produce sections of these big grocery stores. Hand your produce over and have someone prep it for you.
Tyranamar Seuss 2 years ago
Fruits and veg literally grow in DIRT. They are not supposed to be sanitized. You're supposed to take them home and wash them. All this plastic is not making things better. COVID germs sit on plastic exactly the same as they do on a piece of fruit.
Load More Replies... Sans Serif 2 years ago
Actually, much of over packaging originated in 1982 in Chicago with the "Tylenol Murders". Nothing has been the same since! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_Tylenol_murders
Kraneia The Dancing Dryad 2 years ago
In some places, the fruit is wrapped to prevent people from contaminating it by touching it (or by eating it til it's paid for). Is it wasteful? Of course it is. But that's business. They'd rather waste lots of plastic than lose $.59 apple or whatever.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 2 years ago
Unfortunately, the rude and crass behavior of a small part of the human population often makes packaging the un-pakagable necessary. Think, spit, feces and other worse things rubbed into our produce. Especially those that a person eats in whole. Sometimes regular, even vigorous washing isn't enough to remove the contaminates. And let's be honest, how many of us take the time to wash the delectable yummy thoroughly? It can also deter consumption prior to payment. Not just a bite here or there. And the wine... a dark bottle... who would immediately notice a skillfully re-corked bottle before getting it home. Sick idiots poisoning consumables is a reality. It happens.
Terka Červeňáková 2 years ago
Isn't that what security cameras and security guards are for in shops? To stop people who spit on fruit or rob it in their underwear and escort them out?
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--- 2 years ago
Why do they use so much packaging in Japan? I've also seen videos of grocery shopping there and there were individually packaged onions as well as plastic trays for small amounts of meat
General Stukov 2 years ago
I made a post but the culture does. It's tradition to pick up food treats for friends and family when you travel. It's easier to ensure it's safe if it's individually wrapped but as for groceries and convenies is just acceptable to have that much package
Load More Replies...
zena bena 2 years ago
I swear to God if I have to fight with one more freaking thing to get it out of a package or a plastic or whatever the heck it's in I'm going to snap
General Stukov 2 years ago
If you snap, do it in a shrinkwrap factory. And record it.
Load More Replies...
G R 2 years ago
Obviously a lot of these are terrible and there's no excuse, but the pre-cut fruit and veg ones are essential for disabled people who don't have use of or have limited use of their hands and can't physically peel/cut fruit and beg themselves.
DC 2 years ago
Right and legit! But ... some 60 % or so is sold that way. I'd be surprised if that many people are disabled in a way preventing them from cutting vegetables. It's laziness and price-drivery that mainly cause these things to be so omnipresent currently.
Load More Replies... Nizumi 2 years ago
For the argument that this is for sanitation: Well, since most of these offenses are with Waitrose, Morrisons, and big grocery stores like that, have UV light hand sanitizing stations at the entrance turnstile. The turnstile won't let you in until you put your hands in the box. For the argument that this is for people with disabilities: 1. Some of this packaging is difficult even for able handed people, so that's not a solid argument. 2. Fruit and Veg cutting stations in the produce sections of these big grocery stores. Hand your produce over and have someone prep it for you.
Tyranamar Seuss 2 years ago
Fruits and veg literally grow in DIRT. They are not supposed to be sanitized. You're supposed to take them home and wash them. All this plastic is not making things better. COVID germs sit on plastic exactly the same as they do on a piece of fruit.
Load More Replies... Sans Serif 2 years ago
Actually, much of over packaging originated in 1982 in Chicago with the "Tylenol Murders". Nothing has been the same since! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_Tylenol_murders
Kraneia The Dancing Dryad 2 years ago
In some places, the fruit is wrapped to prevent people from contaminating it by touching it (or by eating it til it's paid for). Is it wasteful? Of course it is. But that's business. They'd rather waste lots of plastic than lose $.59 apple or whatever.
Brandi VanSteenwyk 2 years ago
Unfortunately, the rude and crass behavior of a small part of the human population often makes packaging the un-pakagable necessary. Think, spit, feces and other worse things rubbed into our produce. Especially those that a person eats in whole. Sometimes regular, even vigorous washing isn't enough to remove the contaminates. And let's be honest, how many of us take the time to wash the delectable yummy thoroughly? It can also deter consumption prior to payment. Not just a bite here or there. And the wine... a dark bottle... who would immediately notice a skillfully re-corked bottle before getting it home. Sick idiots poisoning consumables is a reality. It happens.
Terka Červeňáková 2 years ago
Isn't that what security cameras and security guards are for in shops? To stop people who spit on fruit or rob it in their underwear and escort them out?
Load More Replies... --- 2 years ago
Why do they use so much packaging in Japan? I've also seen videos of grocery shopping there and there were individually packaged onions as well as plastic trays for small amounts of meat
General Stukov 2 years ago
I made a post but the culture does. It's tradition to pick up food treats for friends and family when you travel. It's easier to ensure it's safe if it's individually wrapped but as for groceries and convenies is just acceptable to have that much package
Load More Replies... zena bena 2 years ago
I swear to God if I have to fight with one more freaking thing to get it out of a package or a plastic or whatever the heck it's in I'm going to snap
General Stukov 2 years ago
If you snap, do it in a shrinkwrap factory. And record it.
Load More Replies... 
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