NCGA Promotes Bulk-Buying Options

By Anonymous

Purchasing products from bulk bins allows consumers to reduce the amount of packaging that ends up in landfills while getting their favorite foods, typically at lower prices and in exactly the amount they need. The National Cooperative Grocers Association (NCGA), a business services cooperative representing 109 food coops nationwide, encourages shoppers to “give bulk a chance.”"Co-ops have a long history of offering products in bulk,” says Robynn Shrader, chief executive officer of NCGA. “Buying in bulk is a simple and easy way to shop, giving consumers more choices at affordable prices while having a positive impact on the environment.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), nearly 80 million tons of waste is generated from packaging and containers annually nearly a third of annual municipal solid waste. Purchasing products in bulk and storing food in reusable containers can help eliminate that waste.

In most cases, buying in bulk is as simple as weighing the quantity needed and writing down the item’s bin number. Most bulk bin aisles include beans, cereals, flours, grains, herbs and spices, nut butters, oils, pastas, sweeteners, tea, coffee, pet food and household and toiletry items, such as soaps.

Copyright Superintendent of Documents May/Jun 2008

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