Whole Foods Market Will Be Eliminating Plastic Drinking Straws from ALL Stores in July
Whole Foods is cutting down on single-use plastics!
Whole Foods Market recently announced that they will be eliminating plastic straws from ALL of their stores, including their Allegro coffee bars, juice bars, and cafés, by July 2019.
As a replacement for plastic straws, they will offer recyclable and compostable paper straws to customers with frozen drinks or upon request. Plastic straws will still be an option for people with disabilities.
This is not the first time that the company has made efforts to reduce plastic in stores. In fact, in 2008, Whole Foods Market became the first U.S. grocer to eliminate disposable plastic grocery bags at the registers in all its stores. And they’re still continuing to cut down on plastics even more in 2019! 🙌🏻
In fact, the grocer switched to smaller plastic bags in its produce department this year. It is also replacing hard plastic rotisserie chicken containers with new bags using approximately 70% less plastic.
We’re loving Whole Foods even more! 😍
Wondering where to buy reusable straws? Here are 5 options we love:
- Stainless Steel Metal Straws (Pack of 8)
- Reusable Silicone Smoothie Straws (Pack of 6)
- Organic Bamboo Drinking Straws (Pack of 8)
- FinalStraw Collapsible Stainless Steel Reusable Drinking Straw w/ Case
- Clear Glass Drinking Straws (Pack of 4)
Great, moving in the right direction!
Yikes! Looks like I need to go to Sam’s to get a few more 2500 count straw boxes before other places start banning plastic straws! 🥺
Ash, what is wrong with you? Saying something you don’t agree is not rude! Don’t take it too personal!
I’m doing the same thing, I’m stocking up on single-use plastic straws to use at my hearth’s content. This is America and I have that right. Sam’s has the right to stop selling them at some point, but in the meantime, I’ll keep enjoying my high quality straws.
Now, me saying that offends you? It shouldn’t, I’m not telling you to do the same thing. You go on with your mentality that you think you are saving the planet, I don’t agree with doing that, end of story!
I believe the Earth doesn’t need saving. I believe Earth is doing just fine and our waste is insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
So Ash doesn’t have the right to her feelings/opinions but you do???? She should’ve scrolled down without a reply because she disagrees but you don’t have to do the same?
Great idea! I was going to stock up at Dollar Tree because they have extra long ones that fit my 32oz (reusable) cup well but a warehouse club is a better idea. I’m wondering where to store a lifetime supply of straws though…
You know there are other types of straws right? They even posted some examples below.
Why? It’s worth it to think about reducing if not eliminating plastic waste that ends up in oceans and landfill. It’s our earth… 🙂
Man, that turtle must be happy now. He has successfully manipulated humans into prohibiting themselves from using straws.
Really, folks? It took one photo of a turtle (one of the thousands that die every day due to other natural causes) to create this massive scare? Hey how about we look at what we want instead of what turtles want?
I’m disappointed in Whole Foods myself. I can’t believe they fell for this.
It’s not the turtle that is a problem, Claudio. It’s our reliance on PLASTIC! It cheap and mass-produced and we somehow we love it?! There are better self-sustaining solutions than polluting our world.
Wow, you should really educate yourself before commenting 😳.
Am I saying anything disrespectful? I may be saying something controversial, but it’s just my opinion. My opinion is that we are exaggerating this situation.
Facts don’t support your opinion so it’s null and void, and yes, you’re being disrespectful.
Actually you’re being disrespectful and pretty rude. How dare this other person have their on opinion. Not everyone will agree but just because you believe something different doesn’t make it right.
Yep, I don’t respect opinions that are not based on facts!
😂😂😂😂😂
I applaud Whole Foods for doing this. As humans all we do is create waste.
Here is the definition of an opinion. ‘A view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.’ You cannot null and void someones opinion. I felt your reply was disrespectful.
I only respect and accept opinions based on facts and knowledge! I obviously don’t respect the original posters views because they are ignorant, and that’s why it’s coming across as disrespectful. Got it!
I mean, Flgrl017 perhaps you were offended by my opinion. But in now way was I disrespectful. Please don’t think that your opinion is fact. You have your opinion, I have mine. You believe that turtle tale, I believe Earth can take care of itself. We insignificant humans have 0% effect on what happens to it.
If you enjoy drinking out of those puny, weak straws, or using no straws at all, knock yourself out! I for one will have to begin stocking on the good straws at Sam’s Club and Costco and continue to believe that putting them in the trash after a single use is completely fine and harmless. It has been for hundreds of years.
Wow! Educate yourself on the environment and the history of plastic 😂.
Good lord!!! Really? “I believe Earth can take care of itself. We insignificant humans have 0% effect on what happens to it.” !!!!!!!!!
it’s our planet, your planet too and you should care… nothing too late
I know exactly what you are saying. We are all entitled to our opinions. This is what the blog is (sorta) all about. I realize people will disagree with you claudio, and you certainly dont need my approval 😂, but i Love love love that you felt ok to state YOUR OPINION.
No, humans are NOT 0% responsible for what happens to the earth.
Wait… Save animals, kill trees?!?
Umm sorry, lets not use paper straws please!!
Instead of just looking at pictures maybe you should read what plastic is doing to the environment. Thanks for the post Hip2Save! I’m glad to know that Whole Foods is doing their part.
I don’t think people read enough… some will see a picture and jump to their own conclusions.
not just a turtle, it needs to be done, it’s long overdue…
Yikes! Someone sincerely believes this change is all about a turtle??!!! Amazing 😱
Did Whole Foods get rid of their disposal diapers and other plastics?
I’d be more concerned about the plastic rings that go around items such as 6-packs of beer, soda, etc.
“He has successfully manipulated humans into prohibiting themselves from using straws.” you can use straws, just not single used one that ends up in the ocean as “unseen” trash. There are plenty of reusable straws, purchase some so you can have an endless supplies.
It took one photo of a turtle (one of the thousands that die every day due to other natural causes) to create this massive scare? from a google search, plenty of other photos and not only straws but plastic in general: https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GGRV_enUS752US752&tbm=isch&q=straws+in+animals&chips=q:straws+in+animals,g_1:marine+life:wMtoOLGEGsA%3D&usg=AI4_-kTEen7lVa_giq8ICw4fXyHKZWJwhA&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiNtPCqv6_iAhXFwFkKHYPCDMgQ4lYILigD&biw=1536&bih=700&dpr=1#imgrc=_
Hey how about we look at what we want instead of what turtles want?s o to answer that, the majority of people support the ban: https://morningconsult.com/2018/08/02/poll-us-adults-support-companies-phase-out-plastic-straws/
That poll was conducted on 2201 people – there are 327 millions adults in the United States. So 0.00067% of the population was polled and 67% support the ban (though technically only 40% strongly support and 27% somewhat support it). That means the poll concluded that 0.00027% of the adult population strongly supports the straw ban. That’s not even close to a majority of a majority of a majority.
There are “medical studies” that poll 10 people. If a majority goes one way, no matter how tiny the test group was.. the poll taker runs with it. Thats just the way it is. Whether its right or wrong. You will see the fine print on new prescription meds where they placebo 25 people and “new med” 25 nore. If 26 say the pill work, there they have it! Majority rules, the meds work! 🙄 again right 🤔 or wrong..🤔
It’s not straws that are the problem. It’s specifically plastic straws. They are used once and then end up in the landfill (or our oceans) for hundreds of years! It takes small steps like this to make a change. I hope the turtle is happy, I know I am!
If you live anywhere near a beach, try volunteering for Beach Clean Up Day. You will be shocked by what you will find there! Straws are only a small part of the massive symptom, so cutting down on our overreliance on plastic takes baby steps. Many, many sea and coastal-flying birds and sea lions will also thank us!
Do you not know what pollution is? Wow.
You all should be more concerned about where you are going to spend eternity: heaven or hell? The earth does not need saving, but your soul does. The earth and all that is in it will pass away. Yes, it will end up in flames, so be more concerned about your precious soul. There is life after this, so this is the time to make the decision that’ll determine your eternal home. Jesus is the only way to the Father. Not any other religion, only Jesus. Surrender your lives to Jesus today. You may laugh, cuss or mock me but when it all ends, whether you die or Jesus comes to take His children home, you’ll then realize you had the chance but missed it. God bless you
Doesn’t the Bible teach it’s followers to be good stewards of the earth? Why shouldn’t people be concerned with this issue and take action? I absolutely think Jesus would be an environmentalist, if he were walking the earth today. Also, I’m not mocking you at all- I understand that we all have different beliefs and I’m glad you have found what gives you hope… but posts like this don’t really help further your cause. Just seems out of place, and most people don’t like to be preached at. Those that do, go to church. 😜
Preaching the gospel can never be out of place. It is the truth that the world needs to hear. Jesus is our Savior. Unfortunately, when that time comes, it may be too late. Jesus saves. Come to Him now. The earth will end up in fire, but your soul will live forever, in either heaven or hell, so make that choice now. God bless you
Yes dukenke! You are absolutely right, thank you for putting our little straw dilemma into an eternal perspective. Keep sharing the gospel! Jesus is the only way.
Love this comment , Dukenke 😍😍😍
Thank you for that, dukenke.
It’s important to remember what is really important.
And while recycling is important it’s turned into some sort of religion for so many (also a big money maker!)
Also.. Mars is heating up too, and there are no suv’s or plastic straws on Mars.
Awesome! Love seeing sustainable choices by large companies, but also from blogs I love like Hip2Save. Would you ever consider doing a weekly post on how to be good stewarts of our wonderful and only home?
Thanks a TON for the suggestion, Marcy! I’ll be sure to pass that on the team!
Earth is not your only home. There is life after death, in heaven or hell. But you have to make that decision where you’ll be spending that eternal life. Surrender your life to Jesus today. He is the only way.
“Recyclebank” is a website that has lots of good information regarding this topic
I love that we ate finally moving in the right direction. If we keep making better choices, we may be able to really make a difference for our grandkids and their grandkids! I applaud Whole Foods and I applaud Hip2Save for sharing!
Excellent news! Thank you for sharing, Hip2save!
You’re welcome, Kellie!
I think that is awesome.
Definitely a move in the right direction.
Please make sure you read the whole post (for some of you who complain), they will offer paper straws and still keep plastic ones for people with disabilities and or upon request.
Love this 😍
High-five to Blaze Pizza for doing the same
Happy to see this, I hope we can move away from plastic water bottles as well!
What really concerns me is disposable diapers yet no one is discussing how they never break down in land fill.
It’s convenient for most people to use disposal diapers so everyone ignores the problem for the sake of convenience. Does Whole Foods still carry disposal diapers and other plastics?
There are sewer districts in California that use something in the used disposable diapers to make fuel (like gas for your house). I went to a presentation on it but building the production plant to make the fuel was too expensive for where I worked.
Not an overall fan of the virtue signalling. Companies do what appeals to their overall customer base. They could’ve easily switched without an announcement and I highly doubt anyone who regularly shops there would have complained and/or stopped shopping there based on their lack of access to plastic straws.
A neighbor of mine posted on social media that she was outraged that Amazon sent her a huge cardboard box for her disposal diapers. She went on about how wasteful it was and the environment because the box was too big for the disposal diapers. Her husband was the head of a Green company. I responded to her by saying nothing is harder on the environment than disposal diapers not to mention the cardboard box and the airplane fuel to get her diapers to her. She responded that not using disposal diapers was too much work and not convenient for her. Again, her husband’s business is the environment.
Yup, that’s how it works. Our city banned plastic bags but then you get 5 receipts each the length of your arm🤷♀️
I’m sorry, but unless everyone on this board is driving electric vehicles… only driving as necessary… conserves energy in all ways… never orders online (because online ordering requires additional packaging compared to in-store shopping in MOST cases as most items are bulk shipped to the box store vs. individually packaged)… on and on and on… let’s not judge how others decide to “ruin” the environment. Fact of the matter is we all play a role in one manner or another and we all pick & choose what our conveniences are going to be (disposable diapers, gas powered vehicles/lawn mowers/etc – driving more than we have to – online shopping – mailing paper cards instead of e-cards – using trash bags that are not biodegradable – the packaging our FOOD comes in! – the labels that are on your UPS boxes – Really, the list is endless and the effects vary depending on our choices). I challenge the average individual to not find at least a small handful of ways to cut back on waste that we choose not to do day to day. The judgment is a little bananas, IMO. And some of the previous “unpopular” comments are opinions and everyone is surely entitled. I agree what WF didn’t have to make an announcement about it (though it’s a service to all of us to see H2S share the info, as always). And furthermore – while I’m all for keeping our planet in tact, let’s not forget the jobs (thousands) that are lost each year when we “eliminate” these items from our day to day lives. As a person that runs a manufacturing operation, it’s mind-blowing to watch the trickle-down effect of these kinds of “movements” – good, bad, indifferent.
Well said!
Hear hear
So true. And let’s not even get started on “mom shaming.” As a working mom of two, we use plenty of disposable diapers. But we don’t buy paper towels. We usually eat at home and don’t use any disposable dishes or cutlery. My son and I both eat home made lunches sent in reusable lunch boxes with reusable containers. The list goes on. Let’s all try to be a little more loving and a little less critical. Being a mommy is hard enough as it is. ❤️
What does “mom shaming” have to do with anything here? Opinions here are not changing based on the man with the straw, the little old lady or the mom..
Paper straws are disgusting. They taste horrible. I hate them. They will get mushy which makes them difficult to use. They also prevent you from getting all of the drink you paid for since the straws soak up the drink. Plastic straws don’t have these problems. I refuse to buy reusable straws. I refuse to pay more to be able to drink something I already paid for.
An alternative would be stainless steel straws which I use . I also hate paper straws as well.
Reusable straws are more work. I don’t like doing dishes as it is. I don’t want to add straws to the pile.
My last two sentences:
I refuse to buy reusable straws. I refuse to pay more to be able to drink something I already paid for.
Then don’t buy these drinks if this is so important to you?
🤣🤣🤣🤣 love this comment 👍👍👍👍
I wasn’t specifically referring to drinks from Whole Foods. My complaints about paper and reusable straws apply to all drinks that I didn’t pour/make at home.
All I see is someone that is insecure in their beliefs and feels the need to attack others to make themself feel superior.
It takes 5 seconds to rinse a straw? That’s sad.
Paper straws are awful!! I’m afraid a metal straw could damage my teeth if I’m not careful. If i had a whole foods near me, maybe I’d start carrying my own straws. I do like silicone reusable straws.
and the paper straws are wrapped in… PLASTIC! (so much for that saving anything, eh?)
Fun fact: you don’t have to use a straw to drink something! 🙌🏻
You do if you don’t want your mouth to touch a glass that someone else has handled. You do if you don’t want to taste a paper cup.
You do if you want your clothes to stay clean. You also need a straw(or spoon) for frozen drinks. If you try to drink a snowball directly from the cup, the ice and flavoring are going to be all over your face and clothes because nothing will stay in the cup.
Paper straws do not work.
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I’m 67 so I remember pre-plastic days very well. Plastic has been a blessing- think medical devices-and a curse since now there are detectable levels of plastics in everyone’s poop and blood. I can assure everyone they will do just fine with paper straws through personal experience, just don’t bite on them! I will say going back to waxed paper days would be hard but been there done that too. IMO getting rid of plastic wrap would be a bigger dent than straws. People with disabilities were initially left out of the conversation and I’m glad their needs were considered by Whole Foods.
I vote for silicone straws. My favorite is Bubba straws. $3.99 for 5 straws. No carrying case though.
Would they fit in a travel toothbrush holder? Seems like they could fit in one of those.
We were at a restaurant that gave paper straws. They literally sucked. I took a few sips, then it was like sipping paper laced tea. I complained to the waitress and she said it wasn’t just our table, but everyone. We all got go-cups, which was styrofoam! to drink out of. So they swapped the plastic straws for paper, but give out styrofoam cups, which is just as bad!!
Compostable plastic straws exist. They have a smaller carbon footprint, are less toxic, and are made from renewable sources. They still often end up in landfills due to there not being enough industrial composting facilities.
First it was paper products and people were complaining about all the trees that were being “killed”, so they cut back on that and now this. It doesn’t matter what it is or how it’s produced someone is going to always complain and then come up with an alternative to make money from the complaint.
Give me a break. No, give me a straw! This is so dumb and embarrassing, Whole Foods.
I’m all for individual companies doing what they can to eliminate plastic waste. I do agree paper straws suck, especially for kids. You can always just drink out of your cup normally…without using a straw at all if you don’t like it. Or carry around a reusable straw or cup if you don’t like it though.
This!
Just wondering why taking steps to help the planet is controversial?
Straws are only a teensie tiny part of the problem, but a baby step is better than no step at all.
Sooooo….lets replace my plastic straws wrapped in paper WITH paper straws wrapped in plastic!!!!! As stated above kind of silly how a corporate company will convince people what they “dont need” and “need”. There will be more $$ in the change for stores, companies, & bigwigs.
I don’t see the problem? “Making matters worse, paper straws also have the ability to harm animals if they are littered into the ocean, much like plastic straws. With that being said, however, paper straws will generally still be less harmful than plastic, because it is a lot less durable, and should biodegrade.” There are plenty of brands of stainless, silicone, reusable straws available now. Easy to use and clean. Everyone should be using refillable cups and reusable straws as much as they can. They are so easy to use, clean, put in the dishwasher, etc. Don’t be lazy.
I fully support this.
The Denver Zoo Starbucks uses paper straws and they are NOT wrapped in plastic. If we don’t take care of our own planet who will?
In the not too distant past, I could not imagine drinking a cold drink without a straw. I bought a reusable stainless steal straw trying to do my part. It was inconvenient, but I kept it in my car to take into restaurants. When I forgot to take it in, I either went back out to get it or didn’t use one. Now, while it’s still in my car, I don’t find it necessary to use a straw anymore. I got used to drinking without one. And honestly, they aren’t hard to wash. Stainless steal straws are all that I have available for use in my home.
We each find our own way to do our small part. It is nice to see that we are being pushed out of our comfort zone for the sake of the environment. I never would have switched to reusable grocery bags if the alternative had not been to pay for a disposable bag. We all need a nudge in the right direction.
Everyone has the right to their own opinion & choices. I think it’s great that others feel they will make a difference by not using plastic straws. As for me, I will stock up on plastic straws, I’ve tried the paper & metal & the drinks end up tasting like paper or metal, don’t have this issue with plastic. I will continue to do my part in other ways, like taking my own recyclable bags to grocery shop or just shopping in general.
I was just reading how the starbucks sip lids use more plastic and still aren’t fully recycled. I had that we push all this stuff on the the consumer when, realistically, I use about 5 plastic straws a year but these corporations do irreversible damage to the planet daily. I think it’s great if they’re going to offer a paper straw with no plastic wrapping for those who’d like it but I don’t like the implication that if you aren’t able to use a paper straw or reusable for whatever reason that you’re killing the earth. I personally have silicone straw that are fantastic. They’re easy to wash, easy on the teeth and pretty disability friendly. You can find them cheap on amazon or marshals. (Which, was wasteful is it to ship 10 straws 🤷🏻♀️)
This makes me want to use even MORE plastic!
Thanks to everyone who suggested silicone straws, which I hadn’t heard of. I hate paper, metal and the thick reusable plastic straws but love iced tea and have sensitive teeth so I was getting nervous about the prospect of a world without disposable plastic straws. I’m going to give silicone a try.
We aren’t limited to using products that currently exist. If you hate paper straws, stainless steel straws, silicone straws, no straws, invent a new product that meets your needs.
This has been a fun conversation so far. I’m surprised at the number of diverse replies, people going on tangents, even getting Jesus and the bible involved.
Curious, is this one of the articles with the most comments? I’m relatively new here so I don’t know if there have been other articles with as much controversy and banter.
Wait until they post a deal on Penzley spices.
People go a little crazy, especially the libs, lol