Mumsnet Talk

My resolution for 2012 is to avoid using supermarkets/big name stores and shop as ethically and locally as possible.

We already receive a veg box, I buy any extra veg and fruit from a local grocer and am going to sign up to a milkman for dairy. However, I'm at a bit of a loss as to where to shop for basics - tinned/dry goods, household cleaners, oil etc etc. I'm also on an economy drive, so local delis/specialist food stores are out for all but a treat. Can one be ethical and cheap?

Have any of you guys tried this? Any advice gladly received.

We use Co op for that sort of thing. Greengrocers & deli sell some bits but we use Co op for anything they don't

Do you have a local healthfood store?

How about a wholefood co-op order - whereabouts are you? They can deliver bulk orders of tinned/dry goods, eco freindly cleaning products, oil, spices and more, at really low prices, plus they are ethical employers

I'd agree with trying to get together with others & forming a buying co-op from a wholesaler like Suma or Essential. There's info on forming a food group & ordering from Suma here

It definitely works out at least as cheap as buying from a supermarket, especially if you buy bulk quantities (5kg packs of pasta for example). They will break packs too, so say if you want 6 jars of jam but they come in packs of 12 you can order a half case.

have messaged you with details of a website for buying at wholesale prices

Brilliant - thanks so much for all the replies, am mid essay panic at the moment but have questions! Will be back when evil bastard essay is done.

If you don't have a good independent local store then online from ethical superstore is good:

www.ethicalsuperstore.com/category/groceries-and-everyday/

We buy most of our meat from the local farm shop. Seems the best was of supporting local farmers.

There was a good buyers guide in Ethical Consumer (www.ethicalconsumer.org) magazine recommending different brands of tinned foods including, Biona, Mr-Organic, Suma and Essential.
I think you can order most of the brands from organic wholesalers. If you live in Manchester or Cheshire then Limited Resources (www.limited-resources.co.uk) is a online shop where you can get veg/fruit boxes plus all your other shopping goods.