Sustainability

Sustainability at Valley Natural Foods

Sustainability is at the core of who we are as a co-op. We believe in nourishing both people and the planet by prioritizing eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and supporting local, sustainable farmers and producers. By making thoughtful choices today, we help ensure a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come. Together, we can create a positive impact—one conscious purchase at a time!

Valley Natural Foods Sustainability Stamp of Approval

 

At Valley Natural Foods, our values of providing sustainable, healthy food on our shelves are being honored by our new “Valley Natural Foods Sustainability Stamp of Approval.”

Though all identified brands may each have different reasons for qualifying for our ‘Sustainability Stamp of Approval’ we recognize their ethical practices and/or integrity and genuine efforts in climate protection and preservation.

Some ways organizations can qualify: practice ethical farming, are upcycled certified, practice sustainably caught seafood certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), are a Certified B Corporation, EWG Verified, Fair Trade, using regenerative farming practices and more.

Here are just some of the brands that have our ‘Sustainability Stamp of Approval’

Additional Resources

What does Valley Natural Foods do to be more sustainable?

Glad you asked! As a store, we have done some amazing things that we feel make a positive impact on our store and the environment!

Currently, we are:

  • Recycling plastics
  • Have timed lighting in store and in our parking lot
  • Eliminated all plastic water bottles under 1 liter
  • Have no plastic bags at registers
  • Run on 100% renewable energy
  • Receipt paper is BPA free and recyclable
  • Donate close to expiring food to local food shelves
  • Compost what we can’t donate
  • Have a Green Team, full of passionate staff, that meets quarterly to review practices and collaborate on new sustainable ideas.
  • Sustainable meat & seafood | Learn more>>
  • Compostable deli containers, disposable silverware, straws, and cups
  • Local pollinator garden
  • Outdoor watering system has a rain sensor to use less water
Where can I recycle?

Recycling materials can get confusing at times. Just remember not to “wishcycle” and expect everything you put into recycling to be recyclable.

  • Recycling containers need to be clean.
  • Paper/cardboard cannot be recycled with oils or other residue.
  • Plastic containers can be “spoon clean.”
  • Items smaller than 3″ are too small for recycling machines, keep caps on bottles to assure proper recycling.

You can learn more about where to recycle locally at The City of Burnsville’s website.

What is the Green Team?

The Green Team works to improve our environmental footprint and social impact by identifying opportunities, launching new programs, and engaging staff and members to make a positive difference.

More Recourses on Sustainability

Add a product or business to our Sustainability Stamp of Approval:

Do you know of a product that should be included on our Sustainability Stamp of Approval list? Fill out our form HERE>>