Local consumption means caring about the environment, empowering local enterprises and often, ensuring better quality. So how to go about shifting to local consumption.
Kitchen stuff...
Supermarkets are rife with imported goods, and it is often difficult to scrutinize every other can and packaging to search for the country of origin. So, if eating local is important to you, here's a little tip: look for the “Made in Moris” logo, which is a map of the island in red, blue, yellow and green. The "Made in Moris" certificate is awarded to products that are made in Mauritius. Of course, not all brands have the certification since not all have requested it, but it's a good start.
For fresh vegetables and fruits, the markets (bazaars) are essential. Choose them over supermarkets when it comes to fresh produce. Fruits and vegetables are, moreover, much cheaper at the market. On the other hand, all the products you will find at the market (or the supermarket!) are not necessarily produced locally. You will therefore need to ask where these vegetables come from. In addition, as there are many planters in Mauritius, there are often “small bazaars” on a street corner or in a neighboring garden. Don't hesitate to roam around your community to spot these small entrepreneurs.
The latest lockdown has also prompted several companies to embark on the delivery of fresh products. It is easy to find them with a simple online search. Many of these companies offer local and organic products.
For the bathroom
With the Made in Moris logo, you can now find the products manufactured on the island. But if you are fed up with commercial products, why not turn to the small businesses that often offer handcrafted products. Today there are many small artisans who offer deodorants, shaving foam, scrubs, toothpaste, skin cream and more. On the Kokodezil site, for example, you will find a host of other beauty products. There are also other small businesses like Eoli, OffMHandmade… A little internet search will open up a world of opportunities for you. When activities resume, keep an eye out for the mobile artisans markets.
Cleaning products
There are all-Mauritian brands of cleaning products. However, the use of plastic packaging is still a problem. There are two solutions to this: buy from the factory or buy from a craftsman. Yes, it's easy to stock up on gallons of dish soap and other cleaning products right from the factory. Of course, this will be a larger quantity, but the container can be reused. There are also stores like “L'écolo, the zero waste corner” which offers all the products you might need for the home in an environmentally friendly way. Be careful, however, the price is a bit higher than traditional products.
Treat yourself or someone else
Mauritian craftsmanship has always been well known although it has changed a lot. Mauritian craftsmanship today is nothing more than the making of baskets and small pots. Earrings, accessories, clothes ... Today you will find everything. If you don't know where to look, the My Pop Up Store page is a good start. This platform brings together small artisan entrepreneurs from the island. There is also a shop in the north of the island, Le Rendez-Vous, which exhibits local artisans.
