PRODUCT POLICY

We emphasize:

Natural products: those free of any artificial ingredients such as preservatives, colorings and flavorings;

Whole foods: those with a minimum of processing and refining;

Organic products: those raised without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, or antibiotics; and

Best Value: quality items at the best price.

We do not carry:

          Foods with trans-fats;

          Seafood on the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Red List;

          Products from China in the Deli, Produce and Meat & Seafood Departments;

          Wellness products tested on animals; and

Items produced using inhumane treatment of animals.

We prefer foods and related items that are:

          Produced by local or regional growers and craftspeople;

          Produced and/or distributed by cooperatives;

          Produced with the least human and environmental exploitation;

          Produced through Fair Trade certification;

          Produced without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives;    

Produced without artificial nitrates or nitrites;

Produced without antibiotics, steroids or hormones;

Produced without high fructose corn syrup; and

          Presented in packaging that is minimal, environmentally sound and healthful.

Because we strive to meet the needs of as many owners as possible, we also carry products that fall outside these guidelines.

We offer choices to our shoppers by balancing various consumer needs while honoring our cooperative and owner values; for example, organic vs. best value or bulk products vs. convenience.  Our product mix ultimately reflects our organizational values as well as owner and shopper demand at our Co-op.