Our Story

Our Co-op began as a food buying club in 1972 and opened a storefront of primarily bulk foods at 16th and P Streets in downtown Sacramento. In 1973, this buying club was incorporated as the Sacramento Natural Foods Cooperative, a Board of Directors was elected and the first paid employee was hired.

We’ve come a long way from our buying club days, but we stay true to our cooperative roots with the multitude of discussions on product selection, member services, retail practices and ethical issues that take place every day in our business.

Our Values

Cooperation

We work together. We strive to reach mutually beneficial outcomes. We make decisions based on the common interest of members.

Belief in Cooperative Economics

We have voluntary and open membership. We encourage member involvement. Each member has one vote. Member financial return is proportionate to patronage.

Open, Honest and Trustworthy Business Practices

We are ethical in our business practices. We encourage healthy debate. We respect and invest in the professionalism of our staff.

Support for Healthy Choices

We provide healthful products. We provide information about healthy choices. We respect diverse opinions about what is healthy.

Sustainable Practices

We operate as a sustainable business. We respect the natural environment and act accordingly. We work toward a sustainable community and a just society.