There are now approximately 20 food cooperatives in Poland. In spring, new Wroclaw groups will kick off to buy from local farmers.
The idea is a bit like the co-ops from the previous era, but in a new rendition. Groups of people interested in fresh, and most of all, healthy products start a Facebook profile entitled "food co-op". This is where information can be found about where and when various products can be ordered and purchased.The food co-op is about collective ordering of food - healthier and cheaper than that available in the store.
Marcin Maserak is the initiator of the first Wroclaw food co-op: "Above all, we focus on healthy, organic and ecological food, which is grown without artificial fertilizers and chemical pesticides. Therefore, we buy mainly seasonal products, which have not been stored for a long time."
The co-op works with local suppliers. These are most often growers and farm owners from the area of Wroclaw and Lower Silesia. They offer vegetables, fruits, oils, cheese, flour, eggs, juices, jams, kasha, and even homemade bread.You can choose and buy the products during, e.g. Saturday ecological bazaar at ul. Białoskórniczej 26, which is open from 10.00 to 13.00. The Sunday Gourmet Bazaar, held in Browar Mieszczański at ul. Hubska 44 is also popular.
"The co-op also works as group shopping at times," says Marcin Maserak. "When a group member suggests purchasing some products on Facebook, and there are more people interested, we make a joint order. That way it is cheaper, e.g. because of the cost sharing."Some suppliers deliver regularly to homes - it all depends on demand and the number of potential customers in Wroclaw.Journalist Agata often takes advantage of the option: "I trust the suppliers, because I have bought fresh products, mainly vegetables, at the Białoskórnicza market. I also order home delivery. This is convenient, and a bit cheaper than shopping in some chain store. I recommend breads and olis. They're fantastic."
Food co-ops are also a good option for the farmers themselves. With guaranteed demand and no agents involved in the transactions, they can earn more. "In France, 300,000 people use this form of grocery shopping," adds Marcin Maserak.
In spring, new farms, i.e. new health food suppliers are to join the Wroclaw initiative entitled "community-supported agriculture".
Wroclaw co-op's discussion group: FB
