Cover Zero-waste grocers to check out in Singapore (Photo: Facebook / Scoops Wholefoods)

Take small steps towards living sustainably by shopping at eco-friendly and zero-waste grocers

The zero-waste movement has been gaining traction around the world. In Singapore, plenty of stores have also joined in the movement, making an effort to reduce waste. For one, the World Wildlife Fund announced in 2019 that over 270 local food and beverage outlets will be phasing out plastic straws. Since 2023, large supermarket operators in Singapore have been required to charge for single-use plastic bags under the Resource Sustainability Act.

We have also seen an increase in zero-waste grocery stores on the island. One of the pioneers of the zero-waste movement, these establishments offer an innovative approach to grocery shopping by eliminating packaging and encouraging reusable containers. On top of reducing plastic waste, these establishments also hope to foster a culture of conscious consumption. Here, you’ll find plenty of necessities ranging from pantry staples to earth-friendly cleaning products.

So, if you’re embarking on a journey to cut down unnecessary waste, why not consider shopping at a zero-waste grocery store? Here are some to get you started.

In case you missed it: 9 local eco-friendly stores to support in Singapore

1. Scoop Wholefoods

This Australian store specialises in organic, environmentally responsible and natural products. Here, find over 2,000 products including bar soaps, vegetable broth and cold-pressed avocado oil. The brand also enforces a ‘no single-use plastics’ policy, encouraging the use of recycled paper bags and refillable glass containers which are provided in-store for its customers.

Scoop Wholefoods (multiple outlets)
Address: 50 Jurong Gateway Rd, #01-12/13, S(608549)

2. Two Sisters Pantry

This grocery store located in Roxy Square is home to a selection of organic New Zealand and Australian products that promote health and well-being. Some produce to look forward to include raw nuts, organic seeds, dried fruits and oats. Bring your own refillable bottles down to its bulk goods section to pick what you need, then pay according to weight.

Two Sisters Pantry
Address: 50 East Coast Rd, #01-43 Roxy Square, S(428769)

3. Unpackt

Established in 2018, Upackt is Singapore’s first zero-waste grocery and lifestyle store and features a selection of package-free bulk food, products and daily necessities. To reduce excess food waste, the store encourages customers to just buy what they need. Bring along reusable containers and check out its curated range of local sustainable brands.

Unpackt
Address: 20 Mandai Lake Rd, #02-09, S(729825)

4. The Social Space

This eco-friendly concept store features environmentally and sustainability-conscious products from around the world. On top of filling up on zero-waste skincare, home decorations and everyday products, visit the Refillery section and stock up on necessities like laundry liquids, shampoo, cleaning products and more.

The Social Space
Address: 333 Kreta Ayer Rd, #01-14, Singapore 0803333

5. Avo & Co

Get fresh and sustainably sourced produce delivered to your doorstep with this delivery service. Products range from heirloom cherry tomatoes to Nasu Japanese eggplant. Check out its seasonal boxes, a regular delivery service that will put together a selection of produce ranging from hormone-free meat cuts to artisanal cheeses. You’ll also have full control of these boxes, allowing you to swap out items you’re not a fan of. Its products can also be purchased individually. The brand also consciously uses less packaging for its products, unless necessary.

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Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.