So, here's an update on the produce situation at Trader Joe's. In case you haven't read about this, one my readers responded to an article I wrote on improving Craft Services. He/She observantly brought up that much of their produce are pre-packaged in plastic containers. So, I wrote to Trader Joe's about the issue. Their response was pretty PC as to be expected. But upon further correspondence I did learn they are planning to use packaging made of corn oil that is compostable. They couldn't offer a list of produce that will have this available, but the items will be stamped with "Natureworks." Keep your eyes peeled at the store.

She's crafty, She gets around

Red licorice, granola bars, Frito Lay’s variety pack. We’re supposedly artists, right? Creative types? If I have to look at one more value pack from Costco, I’m going to gouge my eye out. I think it’s a huge misconception that it’s cheaper to buy products in bulk. Especially when only half of that food gets eaten. Do I really have to give you the starving children line?

I know it’s sometimes considered a shit job, but Craft Services is one of the most important jobs on set. Let's not forget that the title does indicate that there is an element of craft to it. So, get creative.

1. Buy organic
I know it’s a little more expensive. But if you live in Los Angeles Trader Joe’s is a fantastic resource. They also have stores in several states in the US. I swear that my grocery bill is much cheaper when I buy from there than from a huge grocery chain. You’ll find tastier and healthier options like pita chips and hummus or chips and guacamole, ready to eat. If you’re feeling really ambitious, you can schedule around the multitude of Farmer’s Markets in LA.

2. Buy for the day
Instead of buying for the whole shoot, buy for a few days. This is where you’ll save in the long run for buying organic products. You’ll get an idea of what items are popular and what people are begging for. By preventing from buying too much food you’ll save some bucks at the end of the shoot.

3. Buy biodegradable or recycled supplies
Make sure your plates, napkins, paper towels and trash bags are recycled and/or biodegradable. Seventh generation which is available at most major grocery chains offers 100% Recycled paper products and 80% recycled large trash bags. Chinet also provides 100% recycled paper plates that are also biodegradable. Trader Joe’s also provides their own line of recycled paper goods.
4. Hire caterers with reusable plates and cutlery
If your production can afford Caterers, make sure to ask them if they provide reusable Plates and Utensils instead of disposables.

5. Provide clearly marked trash cans and recycle bins
I can’t reiterate this enough. Sometimes the easiest thing to be eco-conscious is to make it easy for your crew to be. They’ve got enough to worry about throughout the day, so don’t make them use up any of those much needed brain cells to find the recycle bin.
And if you want to be really REALLY OCD, provide a clearly marked compost bin during meals, for any uneaten food.

6. Donate leftovers
There are several organizations out there that will take uneaten catering or non-perishables such as Feeding America and Angel Harvest. If you know of any others in your neck of the woods, please let me know and I’ll post it on the site.