This week in food and travel: What that Starbucks straw ban really means

Life

This week, Starbucks announced it’d be doing away with plastic straws by 2020. The idea of losing those iconic green drinking vessels sent a lot of people up in arms. Some argue the ban further disadvantages people with disabilities who, without plastic straws, would be unable to drink beverages independently. Others say the ban would hardly impact the world’s massive plastic problem and that Starbucks and other corporations aren’t doing enough to take responsibility.

Whatever your stance, one thing’s clear: Drinking a Frappuccino won’t feel the same come 2020.

Starbucks will ban plastic straws by 2020. But is its new lid really any better?

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One of Starbucks’ solutions is a plastic sippy cup-like lid that doesn’t require a straw. Whether this is truly a viable solution is up for debate. Read more here.

This sustainable burger might just topple the classic American hamburger from its throne

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Adding mushrooms to ground beef could make for a superior-tasting burger that’s easier on the planet. Read more here.

Drag queens share their best packing tips

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Because these performers often go on multi-city trips with just one suitcase, they have to be experts at traveling with fragile items — i.e. a massive wig — with ease. Read more here.

Is it ethical to eat at a restaurant at the center of a #MeToo accusation?

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What kind of impact are you making when you decide where to make a dinner reservation? The answer isn’t always obvious. Read more.