Guide to Sustainable Grocery Delivery

Who has time for the grocery store these days? Between work, family and everything else, it feels like a chore we could all do without.

That’s where sustainable grocery delivery comes in!

You get the convenience of having your groceries delivered right to your doorstep, and you’re also making eco-conscious choices that are good for the planet. We’re talking about buying locally sourced produce, minimizing packaging waste and supporting products that prioritize sustainability.

Ready to embrace a greener way to shop? Let’s dive in!

How does sustainable grocery delivery work?

Sustainable grocery delivery through Instacart is all about making conscious choices that are good for you and the planet. Here’s how it works.

1. Choose sustainable options 

When it comes to building your sustainable grocery delivery order, there are several factors to consider. Here’s how to keep sustainability top of mind when grocery shopping:

• Search for keywords: Utilize Instacart’s search filters to find sustainable products. Use keywords like “organic,” “local,” “plant-based” and “sustainable seafood” to narrow down your search.
• Explore product descriptions: Carefully read product labels to identify sustainable certifications and sourcing information (e.g., “B Corp,” “USDA Organic,” “Fair Trade Certified”).
• Prioritize local and seasonal: Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season and sourced from local farms. You can’t forget those ripened strawberries for your next dessert!

2. Reduce packaging waste 

As you build your grocery order, try to minimize packaging when possible. Try to avoid products packaged in plastic, which are harmful for the environment. Here are a few things to consider:

• Choose items with minimal packaging: Opt for products with minimal packaging or packaging made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
• Consider bulk options: Purchase grains, legumes and nuts in bulk to reduce packaging waste and save money on groceries.

3. Optimize your orders

How many times have you forgotten a key ingredient in a recipe while prepping your meal? (Don’t worry — we have, too!) To take full advantage of sustainable grocery delivery, try these tips:

• Consolidate orders: Place larger orders less frequently to reduce the number of delivery trips.
• Schedule deliveries during off-peak hours: Consider scheduling deliveries during off-peak hours to reduce traffic congestion and minimize fuel usage.

What sustainable grocery items can be delivered? 

Today, sustainable grocery options are quite expansive. From locally sourced produce to organic meats and plant-based alternatives, there’s something for all eco-conscious consumers.

Here are a few sustainable grocery items you can get delivered through Instacart.

Produce:

• Fruits: Apples, bananas, berries, citrus fruits, grapes, melons
• Vegetables: Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce), carrots, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers

Dairy and eggs:

• Milk (dairy and plant-based)
• Eggs
• Yogurt
• Cheese

Meat and seafood:

• Pasture-raised poultry 
• Grass-fed beef
• Pork
• Seafood (salmon, tuna, shrimp)
• Plant-based alternative meat

Beverages:

• Water
• Juice
• Coffee
• Tea
• Kombucha 
• Other fermented beverages 

Organic and non-GMO pantry staples:

• Grains: Rice, pasta, oats, quinoa
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds
• Oils: Olive oil, coconut oil
• Spices and herbs: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs
• Baking supplies: Flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, chocolate chips

Eco-friendly cleaning and personal care products:

• Soap
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Laundry detergent
• Dish soap
• All-purpose cleaner

Grab it now on Instacart:

Land O Lakes Eggs, Organic, Large, Brown

Organic Valley Whole Milk

Barilla Classic Blue Box Pasta Spaghetti

Dave's Killer Bread Organic Good Seed Thin Sliced Bread

Fresh Bananas

Charmin Ultra Strong Toilet Paper Mega Plus

Ben's Original Original Long Grain White Rice

Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid Laundry Detergent, Original

Bounty Select-A-Size Paper Towels

Scotchgard Spot Remover, Carpet & Fabric, Oxy

Tips for using sustainable grocery delivery

Maximize your environmental impact and support a more sustainable food system, all while enjoying the convenience of delivery. Unlock your greener side with these sustainable grocery delivery tips.

• Check for seasonal produce: Opt for seasonal fruits and vegetables to support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint of transportation.
• Choose local and organic options: Prioritize locally sourced and organic products whenever possible to support sustainable farming practices.
• Minimize packaging waste: Look for products with minimal packaging or packaging made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
• Consolidate orders: Place larger orders less frequently to reduce the number of delivery trips.
• Use reusable bags and containers: Provide your own reusable bags and containers to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags.
• Recycle or compost: Dispose of packaging materials responsibly, recycle what you can and compost food scraps.

Sustainable grocery delivery made simple

Sustainable grocery delivery is more than just convenience; it’s a conscious choice that benefits you and the planet. By prioritizing options like organic, locally sourced produce, minimizing packaging waste and optimizing your delivery schedule, you can contribute to a healthier environment and support a more sustainable food system. 

Ready to make a difference? Explore the wide range of sustainable options available on Instacart. Order today and experience the ease of having your groceries delivered right to your doorstep.

Instacart

Author

Instacart is the leading grocery technology company in North America, partnering with more than 1,500 national, regional, and local retail banners to deliver from more than 85,000 stores across more than 14,000 cities in North America. To read more Instacart posts, you can browse the company blog or search by keyword using the search bar at the top of the page.