This “Garbage Cafe” Is Pure Genius

This “Garbage Cafe” Is Pure Genius

In 2019, the Indian city of Ambikapur launched the country’s first Garbage Cafe, a place where people can exchange plastic waste for hot meals. 😋

It’s a clever idea: tackle both plastic pollution and hunger by allowing people to hand in plastic bags, bottles, and wrappers instead of money.

• For every kilogram of plastic, visitors receive a full meal of rice, curry, lentils, bread, salad, and pickles.

• Half a kilogram earns them a lighter breakfast like samosas or vada pav (a sort of potato burger).

• Most of the cafe’s customers are low-income workers, ragpickers, or the homeless, for whom this initiative provides food security in a dignified manner.

The results? Between 20 and 35 people bring plastic to the cafe every day. The cafe has collected about 23 tonnes of plastic since its launch, helping to reduce landfill plastic in Ambikapur.

The plastic collected is either turned into material for building roads or sold to recycling companies, which brings in money for the local government.

It’s refreshing to see a win-win idea succeed. These days, it feels like the only way to get ahead is by taking advantage of others. But does success really have to come at someone else’s loss?

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Make things easy for people, do not make it difficult for them, and make them calm (with good news) and do not push them away.”

That’s exactly what these “garbage cafes” are doing - it’s clear proof that we can look out for each other and still win. 💚

Read more here.

Food of the Week: Blueberries 💙

Blueberries are small, sweet berries that pack a big nutritional punch. 👊

They’re rich in antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage, while also being low in calories and full of vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and other beneficial plant compounds.

Health Benefits

• Brain – Anthocyanins may improve memory and slow age-related cognitive decline.

• Heart – Fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Digestion – Fiber supports healthy gut function and regularity.

• Immunity – Vitamin C and antioxidants strengthen the immune system.

• Anti-Inflammation – Compounds in blueberries help reduce chronic inflammation.

Who Benefits Most

• Students and professionals who need better focus and memory.

• Older adults looking to protect brain and heart health.

• Anyone with digestive issues who could benefit from fiber.

• People seeking low-calorie, nutrient-dense snacks.

• Athletes or active individuals for recovery support.

How to Eat Them

• Fresh: A handful as a snack or in fruit bowls.

• Smoothies: Blend with spinach, yogurt, or milk for a nutrient boost.

• Breakfast: Add to oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.

• Baking: Muffins, crisps, or scones.

• Frozen: Just as good as fresh; great for smoothies year-round.

Fun Fact

Blue is one of the rarest colors in the natural world! Blueberries get their unique shade from anthocyanin, a pigment that also helps protect your cells from damage. 🛠