Bulk food stores sell goods in large quantities, but more significantly, they eliminate the plastic packaging that usually accompanies them. Even more, they let customers bring in their own reusable containers from home, which reduces waste going back into the environment. This eco-friendly approach allows stores to cut down on overhead costs while providing discounted products for the consumers. Here at Glass planet, we love shopping at bulk bin stores and want to provide you with more information about them.
Why you should shop at bulk stores:
Protects the Environment:
When we purchase bulk items, we are reducing our carbon footprint. By eliminating the need for wasteful packaging, buying in bulk lessens the amount of trash that ends up in garbage dumps and in our ecosystem. Also, the transportation of goods is simplified, thereby reducing the amount of CO2 emissions.
Saves Money:
Bulk bin stores usually have lower overhead, and they pass those savings on to you. Also, because they eliminate packaging, this further reduces costs. As a consumer, you pay for the plastic packaging, disposing of it, and the clean-up process when it ends up in the environment.
Saves Time:
Buying in bulk allows you to eliminate numerous trips to the grocery store. Having what you need on hand at all times means you can spend less time shopping due to you being able to choose how much you want to buy.
Reduces Waste:
This method of purchasing goods allows the individual the freedom to determine the exact amount of food that is needed. This decreases the quantity of food waste compared to using pre-packaged products. An individual can buy exactly what they need, without wasting any product.
Buy what you need:
Buying from the bulk bins offers you the opportunity to select the perfect amount of food, so you don’t have to pay for something you won’t use.
Containers:
You need to bring your own clean container. Make sure to weigh your containers before, so they can subtract it from the food weight.
mason jars
cloth bags
stainless steel tins
glass snap ware
PLU Numbers:
You’ll also need to record the PLU number or the number associated with the product you’re buying in bulk. The number is necessary so the cashier knows which product you have and can charge you accordingly.
Use pen and paper
Take a picture with your phone
Common Items at Bulk Bin Stores:
Baking supplies (flour, sugar, etc.)
Oatmeal and granola
Cereal
Nuts and seeds
Trail mixes and snack mixes
Pasta
Coffee beans or tea leaves
Herbs/Spices (not all spices are kept in bins)
Do you shop at bulk stores? Let us know in the comments if you have any tips. Make sure to check out our Instagram for more information.
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