That kale came from a farm 30 miles away. It was driven in a small truck, not a 18-wheeler. It’s fresh, but the transport cost is huge per leaf.
Big grocery stores buy in bulk. They crush suppliers on price. Your co-op buys from local Dave. Dave has a nice beard and expensive compost.
You’re subsidizing Dave’s lifestyle. And honestly? That kale tastes better for it.
The Bulk Bin Paradox
Bulk bins seem cheap. You scoop your own quinoa. But! Employees spend hours cleaning up spills. They weigh, label, and manage tiny plastic bags for each customer.
That labor is invisible. It’s baked into the price of every single flake and seed. You’re paying for the process, not just the product.
