Trying to save the planet by ditching plastic straws and cups? Think twice before buying that cheap replacement online.

Vice President of the Southwest Region Jason Porter spoke with Today Show Food about companies phasing out plastic straws and the uptick of consumers unknowingly ordering reusable counterfeit metal straws from online retailers. “When you take a look at products that are produced by any major retailer, they’re held to an exacting standard,” Porter said. “Counterfeit products may not always be using best practices or the safest materials … they just want as many sales as possible before they get shut down.” There are four things to consider to try and protect yourself from buying fake products: consider the price; closely review the description and ad; compare the packaging; and, scout the link directly from the manufacturer website. Click here to read the rest of this article.

Published August 09, 2018