Food Co-ops 101

Grocery stores are hard. They're filled with big-name brands, suspiciously marketed chicken and shady, out-of-season produce. But don't worry: co-ops are here to save the day. In this post, I'll tell you all about the hippie-dippiest (read: coolest) alternative to shopping at chain grocery stores.

What is a co-op?

Co-op stands for "cooperative," which is a type of business that is owned and run by members. These members pay a (usually) one-time fee in exchange for a share of the business's profits or a discount on their purchases from the business.

In the world of food, co-ops are small grocery stores that people in the general public can choose to support through becoming a member and paying a membership fee. Anybody can shop at food co-ops (not just members), but members are the only ones who help support the store financially and get future discounts or cuts of profit.

What's special about food co-ops?

Co-ops are super special places because they often employ their members or have monthly member meetings, which can help members feel closer to their food and to their community. At member meetings, members can help pick out products or plan the business aspects of the store. Members don't have to participate in these meetings, but their participation is most def welcome and can lead to an awesome sense of community empowerment.

Another special thing: co-ops are usually v sustainable places. They stock local, organic, free range, grass fed or otherwise eco food products. If a brand or product is stocked that the members don't agree with, they have the power to oust that brand or product in favor of more sustainable choices. This means that in addition to discounts and cuts of profit, members also have a huge say in the types of products their co-op carries.

Because co-ops tend to carry more sustainable products than regular grocery stores, shopping at them can help you discover super cool local farms or green product brands. This means that shopping at co-ops can help you support your local community and the environment. Bless.

Are there food co-ops near me?

To find a co-op near you, just search "food co-op near [your city]." Co-ops are most commonly found in big cities, where there are enough people interested in becoming members. However, co-ops are becoming more popular in suburbs and smaller cities, so be on the lookout.