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The concept of co-op foods and co-op food stores has been around for decades. Small towns across the country have kept the co-op stores open by not only shopping there but by becoming a member and even owning part of the store. The co-op food that is sold in the store usually comes from local farms or businesses. Co-op members have established guidelines about the quality and the value of each product. The co-op can take the form of a store or a club where only members shop at a discount. Other co-ops allow non-members to shop but no discount is offered on co-op foods.

Co-op food can be almost anything that fits into the structure of the individual co-op. Most foods are organically grown, or are considered natural, based on the ingredients, but there are traditional brands that are sold there as well. New local products are a special feature in co-ops. There are usually food samples and demonstrations that explain the value in each co-op food product. Flyers and coupons are sent through the mail and they highlight sale and special co-op food items that are offered a weekly value. Each week the items change and different manufacturers contribute something in order to bring awareness to their own co-op food item.

The popularity of co-op foods and the stores themselves has increased over the years. More small cities and towns are organizing a food co-op to help with the rising costs of food and the variation of quality standards found in larger food chains. Members can shop with confidence at a co-op and buy co-op foods that they personally had a hand in choosing from the small farm or local manufacturer. Co-op Food shopping brings a sense of co-operation and enjoyment back to daily trip to the food store.

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