We hear about packaging from time to time in the comment box, and frequently wrestle with the issue when trying to decide whether to carry a particular item, so were not surprised to find that opinions were almost evenly split between the packaging at the Co-op being “just right” and “too much.” Just slightly more thought it was “just right.”

Nobody thought there was “too little” packaging, which just goes to show how enlightened our members and customers are.

Here is a sampling of the comments:

“Too much packaging but this is the responsibility of manufacturers, not the Co-op”

“I think there could be more bulk foods offered and a little less packaged food, that way people could choose how much they wanted of an item rather than getting a prescribed amount…”

“Too much packaging but still better than other stores”

“Packaging protects food and helps preserve it”

“Can we have an influence on manufacturers? Why do cosmetics come in a jar inside a box?”

“Just the right mix; I feel okay about buying packaged food at the Co-op because I feel like we have paid attention to products without harmful ingredients”

“Packaged food is good to stock…try to serve all members and customer needs”

“Packaged food is not to be pushed, but customers like, use and buy packaged food. So don’t focus on the negative… but promote bulk foods”