The first time I took my wonderful tiffin to Buddha's Vegetarian Restaurant on Dundas St W 15 years ago, it was very busy of course. Despite this, when I sheepishly presented the tiffin to the staff at the cash she got excited, praised me and ran with it to the kitchen to show everyone! What's new school for us Westerners, is a time honoured wayyoudoit in the Far East!

OPTIONAL RANT: When people ask me why the stainless steel containers are made in China, or Vietnam, Korea or Thailand, I tell them that's because they've always been made and used there. The zero waste items I've carried at Anarres are deliberately not repackaged, and not rebranded. People derive false comfort from swanky kraft board packaging with English writing and North American branding - but all that does is add cost to pay North American middle men. The workers don't receive that extra money! I have bought goods that are verified to be Responsibly Made, and where possible I buy factory overruns. In this way I know I am paying the makers more than distributors or big retailers without having to fly out for a staged "tour" for my entertainment.

It would be best if we made the goods we use locally. But we don't. And my point is that we should not snub or arbitrarily disparage goods made overseas, and insist on erasing their origins for the comfort of our consciences. Let's respect traditions that are practical and frugal, and cherish and take care of the objects we use.

Me and this tiffin go way back. 15 years. And I hope my tiffin is helping me be less wasteful another 15 years!

#Anarres #Apothecary 1076 Bloor St W until Saturday. Thereafter AnarresHealth.ca .