Benefits of food co-ops
Food co-ops can have a wide range of benefits and so setting up a food co-op is not just about providing good food. They include:
Health benefits, food co-ops can:
• Increase access to affordable fruit and vegetables and other healthy foods.
• Help raise awareness of the benefits of eating a healthy diet.
• Improve well-being in volunteers who often gain increased self esteem, confidence and a sense of purpose.
Environmental benefits, food co-ops can:
• If set up to do so, increase the supply of local and organic produce.
• Make it easier for people to shop by foot or by bike by providing outlets in residential areas.
• Provide food that often has less packaging, and therefore generates less waste.
Social benefits, food co-ops can:
• Engage local people in their community, which may then lead on to other activities.
• Act as a focal point for local people to meet up and make new friends.
• Help to revitalise community facilities.
• Provide a more sociable place to shop.
Economic benefits, food co-ops can:
• Help to support local producers, growers or other smaller or more ethical suppliers by providing an outlet for their goods.
• Keep money circulating in the local economy.
• Offer volunteers new skills and work experience that could be used in other settings and possibly help them get paid employment.
