All the reasons to shop the Co-op's bulk section

Shopping the bulk department at the Co-op to save money, reduce packaging, and pledge sustainability

REDUCE WASTE

By shopping in bulk, you can reduce both packaging and food waste. Buy only as much as you need and eliminate the packaging, especially single-use plastics. Less packaging means less ends up in the landfill and that's good for our planet.

By Yvonne Boyd

MARKETING & OUTREACH MANAGER

IT’S BEEN A ROUGH COUPLE OF YEARS and we all are anxious to return to some sense of normalcy. As we navigate back to what will become our “new normal,” it’s a great opportunity to get back to the basics, and in particular, back to using sustainable practices. Buying in bulk is a great way to benefit yourself, the environment, and become a more conscientious shopper. Some of the many benefits of buying-in-bulk include reducing waste, saving money, and in turn, helping save the planet.

SAVE MONEY

Buying your goods in the bulk section can save you money over buying packaged goods. You are no longer paying for the fancy packaging, and you are now able to decide how much to buy instead of opting for larger (or smaller) pre-packaged items with a set price tag.

THE CO-OP HAS THE LARGEST BULK SELECTION IN MENDOCINO COUNTY

SUSTAINABILITY

Materials used in the manufacture of packaging dumps contaminated water into our streams, takes trees from our forests, and uses an excessive amount of energy resulting in high levels of CO2 emissions entering our atmosphere.

above: Organic grains, seeds, nuts, and dried fruit, including many local options left: Self-service bulk is easy and clean -- individual scoops prevent cross-contamination with allergens.

HOW TO GET BACK TO BULK

Say NO to plastic and packaging. All it takes to make your home bulk-friendly is a one-time purchase of reuseable glass storage containers, stainless steel jars, or even reuse mason jars. Bring your containers in to the Co-op and have them weighed at Customer Service, then you are ready to fill your bulk items directly into your storage containers. It’s as easy as that!

By reducing food and packaging waste and saving some money, you are helping us all to take care of Mother Earth.

below: Dozens of bulk organic coffees to choose from