The new 'it' bag

The new ‘it’ bag

When it comes to packing a lunch, think outside the (boring) brown bag and go green

By Grace Toby

Disposable lunch bags are not only wasteful, but they’re also about as exciting as a bologna sandwich. According to the Recycling Council of Ontario, the average student’s lunch generates 66 pounds of waste per school year. This number is easily matched or doubled by the amount of waste that an adult can produce. Start this new school or work season with a brand new bag; it will help you make healthy choices, stay environmentally responsible and save money.

For the luncheonista

Built Gourmet Getaway lunch tote
You'll be the envy of your co-workers and the office fridge if you choose a super stylish bag from Built. Made from neoprene (yes, the wetsuit material), it will keep your food hot or cold for up to four hours, and then can lay flat for storage until the next time you do lunch.
Available atSolutions, andKitchen Stuff Plus.
$26.99-$29.99

For the too-cool-for-school kid

Milk dot stöh tote
This tote is part lunch carryall, part statement piece. A modern take on the brown bag, it's perfect for the uber hip individual who eats quinoa and drinks coconut milk.
Available atLavish and Lime.
$28.50

For the lady who lunches (at her desk)

Raya Floral Duffle lunch bag
For the lady who typically says “let’s do lunch” but occasionally must eat in. This bag could easily pass as a purse and no one will be the wiser, darling.
Available atCanadian Tire,Zellers, andWalmart.
$14.99

For the germaphobe

Munchler lunch bag
Your PB&J sandwich and a germ-infested cafeteria table shall never meet with this too-cute lunch bag that unzips to, ta-dah, became a placemat.
Available atSolutions, andKitchen Stuff Plus.
$14.99

For the double dipper

Thermos Radioactive food jar
Keep your soups sizzling (for up to five hours) and your salads cool (for up to seven hours), without sacrificing one for the other. This dual thermos also includes an extra wide mouth, so you can fill it to the brim with your healthiest leftovers.
Available atCanadian Tire,Zellers, andWalmart.
$24.99