Shopping in the bulk section of a grocery store is a sustainable and cost-effective way to shop for your pantry essentials. With a little preparation and the right techniques, you can navigate the bulk section with ease, reducing plastic waste and enjoying fresh, quality products. Here's how:

Supplies You Need

Before embarking on your bulk shopping journey, gather your supplies:

• [ ] Reusable Bags and Jars: Bring your own bags, cloth pouches, and glass jars to fill with bulk items. Varying sizes are helpful since you might buy differing quantities of items.
• [ ] Storage Containers: Prepare containers at home for storing your bulk finds. Reuse existing jars or invest in a set of versatile mason jars.

Available Bulk Items

Bulk sections offer a diverse range of items, including:

• Dry Goods: Nuts, grains, pasta, rice, beans, lentils, and a variety of flours.
• Spices and Herbs: Choose from an array of aromatic spices and herbs for your culinary adventures.
• Beverages: Coffee, tea, and even kombucha can be found in bulk, allowing you to choose your desired quantity.
• Liquid Staples: Olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, and other liquid essentials.
• Dried Fruits and Snacks: Stock up on dried fruits, trail mixes, and granola.
• Bakery Items: Select from bulk rolls, bagels, and pastries.

Taring Your Jar

• Before filling your container, bring it to the cashier to be weighed. This process is known as "taring" and ensures you're only paying for the weight of the product.
• The cashier will note the weight of your container, often on a small sticker or by writing directly on the container.

Filling and Labeling