IKEA - Making Changes to Improve the Environment!

I accepted a gracious invitation to partake in our local IKEA 's re-opening of their restaurant this evening. The purpose was to unveil IKEA 's move toward sustainability as well as a more friendly environment for eating and visiting with family and friends. The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony, giveaways for the first 100 people in line, a sparkling juice "toast" to celebrate the event, face painting and balloon animal-creation for the kiddos, as well as a free meal for attendees.

During the event, guests had the opportunity to check out the full remodel: a newly redesigned space featuring three zones. The first zone lends itself to a quick bite for the shopper on the run; the second space is family-oriented; and the third section is called “Fika” – Swedish for “to have coffee” – with a living room atmosphere. All three were comfortable spaces with clean and inviting seats, tables, and decor.

So, why was I invited to this event? A little birdie told someone at IKEA that I might write a blog post about the event to get the word out about the newly designed restaurant and sustainable offerings. I was happy to do so, as I have enjoyed their vegan plate multiple times since it was unveiled last year. Of course, this delicious vegan option was highlighted during this evening's event. The vegan plate includes GRÖNSAKSBULLAR, or veggie balls, made from vegetables like chickpeas, green peas, kale, corn, peppers and pea protein topped with a sweet potato/black bean/quinoa sauce and a side of colorful, steamed vegetables. Since the GRÖNSAKSBULLAR are made from veggies and not animal products, IKEA is reducing their carbon footprint (compared to the Swedish version made from beef and pork). On top of that, 10 of the veggie balls have about 100 calories LESS than the Swedish version and contain about 50% LESS fat. The addition of this option allows people like you and me to have a healthy option while shopping at IKEA--a place we all love! And, the price is RIGHT at only $4.49 for the plate (with the FREE IKEA Family membership)!

If you have an IKEA near you or are visiting a city that has one, I highly recommend checking out the store (if you've never been before) and ending your visit (or starting it!) with a trip to their restaurant to try the GRÖNSAKSBULLAR. If you go before you start shopping, IKEA promises a nice, long walk to work off the few calories that you just ingested!

Check out some photos of the event!