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Food

How and why buy in bulk?

I understand what's at stake

Buying in bulk has grown significantly over the past several years, both in supermarkets and specialty stores. Fruit and vegetables have always been available in bulk at market stalls. Today, bulk shopping has expanded to include a wide range of food products: cereals, dried fruit, rice, pasta, flour…

In many stores, you can bring your own container to avoid using disposable packaging (kraft paper bags, thin disposable bags, etc.).

Buying in bulk has several advantages: it allows you to buy only the amount you actually need and reduces packaging waste.

However, buying in bulk can also lead to waste, especially if the products on the shelves and in large containers aren’t handled with care. Be sure to follow the store’s instructions!

Note: Buying in bulk isn’t limited to bulk grocery stores or supermarkets with a dedicated bulk section. It’s also become quite common to bring your own (clean, dry) containers to butcher shops, cheese shops, bakeries, and more. Give it a try!

Taking action

Wondering where to find bulk products? In France, you can find them in:

  • 88% of specialty organic stores,
  • 83% of supermarkets,
  • 45% of neighborhood stores

Find out about other ways to reduce your carbon footprint

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