The other day at the open market I came across these darling, plastic, reusable bags. I do not know if it is the same where you live, but here in the south of France when you go to the grocery, or hardware, or most chain stores, they no longer give you a bag. You need to bring your own bags, purchase a large plastic sack, or carry your purchases stacked in your arms. It is a way the European Market is trying to cut back on waste and encourage an eco friendly environment .
When I first arrived in France over twenty years ago, most people used baskets when they went to the markets. I remember delicately carrying my eggs in a plastic egg holder that my mother in law gave me. More often than not I found myself at the market with my basket but without my egg holder (it usually sat empty in the fridge). I developed a tricky way of balancing the eggs within the lettuce leaves. Going to the market was an adventure and often lead to omelettes for dinner.
Last October, my cousin Judy, brought me a clever filmy, lightweight (or I should say no weight) bag, that folds up like a sock, that I carry in my purse, just in case I find myself out shopping empty handed. It is easier to stuff in my purse than an egg holder.
Of course, if you have a ton of children, you could have them help carry out the groceries. I would gladly take the children shown on this sack, I call "dibbs" on the one with the bottles, and the other with half a cake.
Sand pails come in handy as well.
What do you use when you go to the grocery store, do you use eco friendly bags?
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