A RAINY WALK IN AMAPAS AND THE ROMANTIC ZONE, PUERTO VALLARTA: I was on a mission!

 Searching for Mayonnaise Packaged in Glass

Guess Which Mini-Supermarket I Found It In!

Yesterday was very rainy, probably due to Hurricane Vance passing by Puerto Vallarta. It was a perfect day to try out my rain poncho. I had carried it in my backpack for many miles during training for the Camino de Santiago. And I never needed it during my long Camino Inglés walk in Spain, so it was time to try it out.

My mission was to find mayonnaise in a glass jar — no more plastic packaging in my refrigerator! I've been a Best Food mayonnaise lover since I was a child in Oregon. In Mexico, Hellmann's was the equivalent brand. I hoped to find this brand in a glass container, since every size I had ordered from La Comer was packaged in plastic. 

My goal is to minimize plastic use. Mayonnaise is one of the few products I use that I haven't found packaged in glass. To see my other ideas, please check out my blog: 

𝟭𝟬 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 🌎Ecological Footprint Lesson 102 · Updated Dec 28, 2025

The Last Time I Will Buy Mayonnaise in a Plastic Container!

I was determined to walk 6000 steps, about 4.5 km, in this steady rain to reach my daily fitness goal. Few people were out, and the ones who were carried umbrellas or wore rain gear. 

I headed into Colonia Amapas first because I wanted to check the Mini Super and Deli Amapas near home. The walk was rather dreary — though a few murals brightened the route. Even the rooster stood on the sidewalk under an overhang.

Mini Super and Deli Amapas Store Had It!

The first store I ducked into, Mini Super and Deli Amapas, had mayonnaise in many sizes. I was excited that all were in glass jars! But they were all McCormick's brand. I had tried it once years ago and couldn't get used to the flavor, but now was the time to learn to like it. I bought a medium-sized jar to try.

It was still raining when I stepped outside, so dark and dreary that lights controlled by sensors had come on in the Romantic Zone. Lighted palm trees looked pretty along my route to the beach, and the pier decor was lit up. I suddenly felt happy to be walking in the rain. It was 78 degrees outside and very comfortable, not like the Oregon rain I remembered. And so much cooler than the 92-degree temperatures we had experienced for weeks in Puerto Vallarta.

The boardwalk was missing in front of many restaurants, from Swell on the Beach to Si Señor on the Beach. The wooden sections were stacked away from the surf with sandbags surrounding them to help keep the high tide away.

I skipped walking on the wet sand and headed to Los Muertos Pier street, Francisca Rodríguez, to check out Frutería & Minisuper Barragán. I was surprised they also carried mayonnaise in glass jars! I was disappointed that, again, it was McCormick's brand, but I wanted to support the store, so I purchased another medium mayonnaise.

It was time to explore the Old Town Market, one of my favorite mini-supermarkets in the Romantic Zone. That would take me far enough from home to reach over 3000 steps, so I would achieve my goal when I returned.

The Disassembled Boardwalk and Sandbags

Frutería & Minisuper Barragán Had Mayonnaise in Glass Jars, Too!

Old Town Market, Puerto Vallarta

The Old Town Market Had An Exceptionally Good Selection

The Old Town Market had an exceptionally good selection of mayonnaise, including a large jar of Best Foods, which had to have been imported from the United States. I squeezed every jar, and all were plastic except the McCormick's. I took another medium McCormick's jar to the cash register and told the cashier that I was writing a story about buying mayonnaise in glass. After I purchased it, I asked her to take my photo for this blog, and she wanted to include their sign outside the glass doors. Good idea!

I headed toward home, trying to avoid flooded streets, but it was impossible. Some intersections had become small creeks, and my shoes were soon soaked. The best I could do was avoid being splashed by passing cars and trucks. 

I decided to stop at a cafe for a cup of hot herbal tea and to use their baño. It was ironic that I chose A Page in the Sun, because there was not a bit of sun to be seen that day. I sat outside and gazed at the Tile Park across the street, enjoying the sound of the rain.

When I got home and dug the three medium-sized jars out of my backpack, I realized one had 20% more "gratis", a free bonus. I'm not sure which store carried that one, but they were all priced about the same, mas o menos. We would be eating a lot of tuna salad sandwiches in the coming year. But each time I used a scoop from a glass jar of McCormick's mayonnaise, I would be reminded that I was helping the environment. 

I Bought Lots of Mayonnaise--All in Glass Jars. Almost Plastic-free.

Thank you for reading! Every small step toward reducing plastic makes a difference.

What are you doing to minimize your use of plastic? I'd love to hear your ideas and suggestions. Please share in the comments below. We can all learn from one another!

To see my other ideas, please check out my blog: 

𝟭𝟬 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 🌎Ecological Footprint Lesson 102 · Updated Dec 28, 2025

Terry L Turrell, Author

Visit My Amazon Author Page Here

Healthy Living and Traveling in Mexico: 𝟭𝟮 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 🌎(Edited 3/28/26)

Unexpected Alternatives to Plastic Packaging

Almond Butter Packaged in Glass Jars

I’m always looking for new ways to reduce everyday plastic use. Recycling and reusing help—but I’ve come to believe that reducing is what really makes a difference. 

I had three more discoveries recently. Almond butter packaged in glass was a challenge, but I found it on Amazon. Buying the M de Maní Almendrina two-pack of the largest jar size is the most economical. Even better, this is made by a Mexican company, so there are no import costs.

Stur Lemon-Lime Electrolyte Packets

 

Finding ways to avoid purchasing electrolyte solutions and sports drinks in plastic bottles has been one of my biggest goals. It’s discouraging to see how many bottles of Electrolit rehydration drinks are consumed in Mexico, each one creating another piece of plastic waste. Discovering Stur electrolyte packets was a real win. I ordered it online from iHerb.

One packet mixed into a 16-ounce reusable water bottle provides effective hydration with a good balance of potassium and sodium. As I’ve mentioned before, Clamato is one of my favorite post-walk drinks after time in the heat—which is why I couldn’t resist sneaking it into the photo above.

I Switched to Nellie's Dishwasher Detergent in a Metal Tin

I cringe every time I reach for my dishwasher detergent and pick up that familiar plastic jug of Cascade Dishwasher Detergent. I try to make it last longer by only filling the dispenser about two-thirds full, but even then, I know I’ll eventually need to replace yet another plastic container.

So I was genuinely excited to discover Nellie’s Dishwasher Powder Tin—a dishwasher detergent that comes packaged in a reusable metal tin. Even better? It works just as well as what I was using before.

Nellie’s is made in Canada, so importation fees make it a bit more expensive here in Mexico. I purchased mine through iHerb. Another plastic-free option is Cascade Complete Powder Dishwasher Detergent, which comes in a cardboard box instead of plastic. However, it’s also imported into Mexico and tends to cost more than the standard Cascade Dishwasher Detergent in plastic packaging.

Please continue reading at:

Healthy Living and Traveling in Mexico: 𝟭𝟬 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲   

Thank you so much for reading my blogs and books. If you find them helpful or enjoyable, I’d truly appreciate you sharing them with others. And if you have a moment to leave a review, it makes a big difference and helps other readers discover my work.

You can find all eight of my books on my Amazon Author Page—always free with a Kindle Unlimited membership.

Terry

Terry L Turrell, Author

Amazon Author Page

𝟭𝟬 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 🌎Ecological Footprint Lesson 102 · Updated Dec 28, 2025

 Ditch Plastic Packaging

Lots of Alternatives!

1. Bar Soap in Talavera Soap Dishes

Reducing plastic use is not only good for the environment—it can also be surprisingly satisfying and fun. One of my most recent changes was eliminating plastic liquid hand soap bottles altogether, including both pump bottles and large refill containers. That’s a lot of plastic over the course of a year. My solution was simple and enjoyable: I bought beautiful Talavera soap dishes from local Mexican shops and switched to bar soap for handwashing at the kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Fill Talavera Pump Dispensers 

With "Platos" Dishwashing Detergent

I now fill my Talavera pump dispensers with dishwashing detergent—my new Platos liquid soap. Guests who prefer liquid soap can use this option, and it works beautifully: it creates just enough suds, cleans well, and rinses easily. Keeping it in a decorative dispenser also makes dishwashing detergent readily available for scrubbing pots. I’m especially pleased that "Platos" brand dishwashing soap is plastic-free and biodegradable, and I share more about it below.

2. Toothpaste Tablets in a Plastic-Free Container

I wish I had discovered toothpaste tablets sooner! Muyme ships 90 tablets in a completely plastic-free can, available through Amazon México, making it easy to eliminate traditional toothpaste tubes from daily life. According to Google, globally around 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes are thrown away each year, with some estimates as high as 20 billion annually due to their mixed plastic and foil layers that can’t be recycled. In the U.S. alone, more than 400 million tubes end up in landfills every year, where they can take centuries to decompose. 

These tablets feel like a small but meaningful step toward reducing plastic waste—and they’re practical and delightful to use. I love the fresh flavor, the simplicity, and the compact size that makes them perfect for travel.

3. I've Switched to Compostable Zipper Bags!

Available at La Comer Stores

4. My First Bamboo Toothbrush Ordered from La Comer

Others Available from Amazon—What Do You Like?

Plastic toothbrushes can take up to 500 years to break down. They don’t fully decompose—instead, they fragment into microplastics that can pollute ecosystems and waterways for centuries.

Globally, roughly 23 billion toothbrushes are discarded annually, according to National Geographic and other sources. Since most of these are not recyclable, they likely end up in a landfill or are incinerated. Each one of us can make a positive environmental impact with this small change.

5. I Purchased More Pyrex Dishes to Eliminate Plastic Wrap

And Replace Styrofoam Restaurant To-Go Containers

Yes, I bring my Pyrex bowls to the meat market for chicken, beef, and pork—and to restaurants so I can pack up half my meal to take home. It’s a simple habit that helps the environment and saves me money. I also use these bowls for freezer storage instead of plastic freezer bags, which cuts down on waste and makes reheating frozen meals much easier.

6. Nutrisa Frozen Yogurt in Waxed Paper Carton

No Plastic, Not Even in the Lid!

I’ve written before about reducing our plastic usage, but it’s been a while. My earlier post, "ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT Lesson 101: 10 Ways We Reduced Ours When We Retired in Mexico", was published on March 9, 2017, shortly after we moved to Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico.

Even eight years ago, we were already making changes: buying milk and juices in waxed paper cartons and trying to cut back on plastic containers. I even made my own yogurt at home for a while, but we ate it too fast, and I eventually tired of the long process.

7. Our Juice and Milk Cartons 8 Years Ago

The Cartons Have Changed But Still Eco-Friendly

🌱 I Want to Reduce Plastic Usage — More. 🌊

One small change I’ve made recently: I stopped buying yogurt in plastic containers. Instead, I discovered Nutrisa Frozen Yogurt, which comes in two delicious flavors, Mora (Blackberry) and Taro. To my surprise, Taro has become my favorite! It pairs beautifully with bananas, mangos, pineapple, and even cooked cinnamon apples with cranberries. 😋

Fruit Smoothie from Ingredients Packaged in Paper

For breakfast, I’ve been adding two small scoops of Nutrisa to a bowl of fruit, granola, and chopped walnuts. It’s creamy, refreshing, and so satisfying. Nutrisa claims it contains live cultures, so I feel like it’s a healthy alternative to regular or Greek yogurt, plus, it blends perfectly into smoothies.💚

8. Purchase Drinks and Food in Glass Containers

I say, "No plastico por favor." With a little extra effort, I have found all the drinks and food I need in glass or cans. I even found almond butter packaged in glass jars from Amazon Mexico.

Recently, I watched the documentary “A Plastic Ocean.” It opened my eyes. Seeing the heartbreaking impact of plastic on our oceans, wildlife, and ultimately our own bodies has motivated me to make a difference—one small, mindful choice at a time.

♻️ Going Beyond Yogurt: My Next Plastic-Free Goal

My next goal was to eliminate buying dishwashing and laundry detergent in plastic bottles. I discovered a Mexican company called Desplastifícate, which translates to “Deplasticize.”

I’ll admit, I was initially skeptical about their products. But after trying them, I’ve realized their soaps are worth every peso!

9. “Platos”: The Name of the Dishwashing Soap

Available on Amazon México, Platos proudly promotes a simple mission: “Go plastic-free with our scented dish soap. Unlike liquid or powder cleaners, it won’t pollute water.” 

I can vouch for that claim! The scent is light, refreshing, and best of all, it doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. 🌸

10. Ropa: The Name of their Laundry Detergent

👕 “Ropa” — My New Favorite Laundry Soap

I especially love the “Ropa” laundry detergent by Desplastifícate! I used it for two weeks before writing this article to make sure it wouldn’t cause any skin irritation like most detergents do—and it didn’t. 🌿

At first, I didn’t believe their claim of “No rinsing required.” I’ve always had to run my laundry through an extra rinse with my low-water washer when using other soaps, but not with Ropa!

Not only does it eliminate the need for those huge plastic bottles of detergent, it also saves water, electricity, and wear-and-tear on clothing. It’s a win all around. Next time, I’ll be ordering the four-pack from Amazon! 🧺

🌎 Every Small Change Counts

Reducing plastic has become more than a goal for me—it’s a mindful practice that connects my daily choices to the health of our planet. Each time I find a new way to replace plastic with something reusable or biodegradable, I feel a little lighter and more hopeful about the future.

Have you found creative ways to reduce plastic in your daily life? ♻️
I’ll be adding more ideas to this article in the coming weeks, and I’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments. Together, we can inspire each other—because every small change truly counts. 💚

💚 Thank You for Reading

Thank you for reading my articles and following along on this journey. Writing about these small, meaningful lifestyle changes keeps me accountable and connected to others who care about our planet.

For more lessons I’ve learned along the way, please take a look at my Healthy Living in Mexico books, where I share stories, insights, and practical tips from my life here in Mexico. 🌴📘

Free with Kindle Unlimited Membership

Terry L Turrell, Author