Final Straw (a collapsible stainless steel straw)
Final Straw was a crowd-funded invention that got an investor on the US version of Dragon’s Den. Three other investors refused to invest, and are likely regretting it now! The brand has gone global, will millions sold (it’s already prevented 2 billion plastic straws from being littered).
Sold in several colours, this is a collapsible straw made from stainless steel that fits in your pocket, purse or keychain. The Biggie Straw is wider to handle smoothies, vegan milkshakes and bubble tea.
Co-founder Emma got the idea, when working at a beachside research centre, and kept seeing littered plastic straws harming sea creatures.
Unless you have a medical condition that requires one, you don’t need drinking straws (you could use your lips?) But as billions are used worldwide, it makes sense to look at reusable alternatives.
Stainless steel straws are durable and dishwasher-safe, but are cold to the touch. They should not be used for children, people with dexterity issues or when on the move, as they don’t bend.
Don’t give straws to babies (as for pets, they are choking hazards). Open cups let babies develop facial muscles for speech/eating.
How to clean reusable straws
Rinse straws after use, then use a small brush (usually included with reusable straws) to clean with warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before storing, to avoid odours.
Why avoid plastic drinking straws?
Many countries (since that viral video of the turtle with a plastic straw stuck up its nostril) have now banned single-use plastic straws. But many countries (including the USA) haven’t, and millions of old plastic straws are still used, if bought years ago.
Which countries have banned plastic straws?
Not many, the majority of countries worldwide still allow them. In the US, there is no federal ban, but some states (like Florida and California) have brought in bans. President Trump has not only reversed a ban on plastic straws, but ordered all federal departments to not use paper ones, presumably to support the oil industry (plastic is made from oil).
A few years back, McDonald’s replaced plastic straws (but not plastic lids, which rather defeats the point) on their McFlurry’s. Which led to a petition of over 50,000 people demanding they be returned, as the paper ones ‘went soggy’. Then it was found that the new paper straws could not be recycled, so they had to go back and redesign them. We have a long way to go.
