Tuesday, March 22, 2011

GreenStar Food Co-op

I just got back from a very inspiring class trip to Ithaca, NY. We visited the EcoVillage and other sustainable projects that are happening there. The local food co-operative, GreenStar, was an inspiration. It’s a member owned grocery store. Lifetime membership costs $90 payable over up to 10 years at $9 per year. Their mission is to buy as locally as possible. Local is considered to be within 30 miles of the co-op. They label local foods with the farm it came from, and all suppling farms must be able to be visited by members. They also carry items from further away, but they will only carry items that are good for you. There is nothing from China sold there, and they stay away from items that are over packaged. 

Prices are very competitive and members get a 2% discount. Higher discounts are available depending on how much they work. The co-operative format is also used to extend food cost benefits to members according to need. They believe healthy foods should be available to all. They work with the farmers too, paying for crops in the spring when the farmer need the money, much like a CSA, and taking delivery later in the season. Many items are in individual packages, but most you take only what you need, using your own reusable containers or the biodegradable bags that they provide. The co-op is extraordinarily popular. They feed 20% of the greater Ithaca community. It was so refreshing to see a successful people oriented operation. Food for thought.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 7:00 PM
Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 12:00 PM
Mountain Lakes Organic Coop - 10 Vale Drive Mountain Lakes, NJ
Enjoy! Marnie