A Pirate’s Guide to Food Waste

A tale told by Nancy J. Zavada

“Eat your food or walk the plank, matey” rang out on all our family camping trips. Summer always reminds me of those days, and I feel compelled to share some of the life lessons those camping trips taught me on those warm days.

We learned at an early age to imagine setting sail on a “Pirate Ship” when leaving for a summer adventure. And pirates had very specific rules. You see, a pirate ship had limited supplies and space during a voyage. So, we all had to work together during the voyage. Our ship was not unlike the good ship Planet Earth.

Imagine yourself on a ship (or a planet) and come along with me as we learn the basic rules.

Ship Rules:

There is a limited amount of space on board.

Use bulk containers that hold more and will serve several meals. How many types of sauce do you really need? Minimize packaging.

The crew (you) must carry your share of the cargo.

Don’t bring more than you need, because you’ll have to carry, store, cook, and dispose of it. When packing coolers or backpacks, know your portions and plan meals in advance.

Everything you bring must have more than one use.

Cups, plates, and cutlery will be reused. Bread makes great sandwiches AND toast for breakfast. All of the unused ingredients make a wonderful omelet, soup, or salad on the final day.

Everyone shares the food.

Take only what you can eat because the food will need to last until you return to port. Ask the cook before grabbing something from the cooler, as it may be needed for another meal. For example, one bag of tortilla chips can make several meals, such as toppings for chili, nachos, and chips for dips.

All food taken must be eaten; it could be a long voyage.

You may not get a snack break every two hours, but you aren’t going to starve. The items may not have as many options as what’s available at home. Be adventurous.

There is no place to dispose of food waste.

Throwing it overboard is not an option on a ship or on a planet. On a camping trip, it attracts animals.

Rum weighs less than beer.

Enough said.

Is it a challenge or an opportunity? With a little imagination and some basic rules, we had a wonderful time, and no one was lacking. With creativity, simple planning, and engaging your guests, you can do the same with family events, corporate events, or community gatherings.

As the famous pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow, said,

Fair Winds!