When someone shares a novel way to save 50 percent to 75 percent on food costs, I listen. That's why I took note when a woman explained that she and four friends were paying only a fraction of the going rate for top-quality produce. The women took turns shopping and delivering, and because they purchased large quantities, they qualified for the same kinds of savings normally offered only to buyers for supermarkets. Food co-ops are probably the best known form of cooperative.
Individuals pool their buying power to purchase natural foods directly from wholesalers.
In return, you'll pay about half the cost of natural foods sold in stores, often with far greater selection. Here's how it works. This host provides a place where participants can register for discounted food packages. Each standard package includes six to 10 pounds of meat, four to seven fresh vegetables, two to four fresh fruits, pasta, rice, or cooked cereal, and a few specialty items. At registration, participants pledge two hours of community service for every package to be purchased.