BLOOMINGFOODS’ PRODUCT STANDARDS

We will never carry products with the following ingredients/characteristics:

• MSG, high-fructose corn syrup,  nitrates, nitrites, sulfur dioxides, artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors or preservatives

• Chlorine bleached or chemically decaffeinated

• Ozone-depleting compounds as listed in the Clean Air Act regulations

• Substances classified as known or likely carcinogens or reproductive toxins from authorities such as the National Toxicology Program, US EPA, and/or the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Bloomingfoods will prioritize the following product qualities:

• Locally produced

• Organically grown

• Natural ingredients

• Fairly Produced with concern for workers, animals, and the earth

• Responsible packaging

• Non-GMO

• Dietary preferences

• Fairly Priced

• Bloomingfoods Ends Statements

RESPONSIBLE PACKAGING

For many of our owner-members excess packaging is a major concern.  As a small co-op, we have little effect on large producers to make changes.  We CAN support producers that use minimal, responsible packaging.  New product selection will consider packaging with the following concepts from best to worst:

• No or bulk packaging

• Reusable by the producer

• Concentrates 

• Reusable by the customer (especially with standard-sized lids, such as canning jars)

• Made from 100% recycled content   

• Compostable or biodegradable

• Recyclable paper and/or glass

• Recyclable plastics

Whenever possible Bloomingfoods will avoid and/or offer alternatives to single-use plastics, other non-recyclable items, and excessive packaging. 

LOCAL

Bloomingfoods believes a strong local economy allows us the most food security and transparency in the growth and production of our foods and household goods.  We will strive to have locally grown/produced options whenever available.  Additionally, we believe that “local” means more than location. Products that carry the local or regional label will include the following geographic boundaries and independent business practices.

Geographic boundaries:

• Local is Indiana.

• Regional includes the surrounding states of Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, and Michigan.

Independent business practices: 

• Private, worker, community, or cooperative ownership.

• At least 50% locally-owned. This means the owners live in the geographic area where the business is located.

• Decision-making authority is vested in the local owners

Click to read the full list of Product Standards.