Our Commitments
The Co-op is committed to providing access to natural foods and products that support the health of our customers and community. In addition, we are committed to solutions that consider the environmental impacts of the production, distribution, and use of our products.
Our Mission
Hunger Mountain Cooperative exists to create and sustain a vibrant community of healthy individuals, sustainable local food systems, and thriving cooperative commerce.
Reduction to Energy Consumption
Reduced refrigeration demand in winter by circulating in cold, outdoor air. Heat reclamation tank captures excess heat from refrigeration system to preheat on-site water.
Solar Energy Offsets
A solar panel carport offsets nearly 2% of energy use and provides free charging to our shoppers. Two solar arrays will largely offset annual electrical consumption.
Food Reuse and Composting
Food fit for consumption but deemed unsalable is used by the kitchen or donated. Unused organic material is locally composted and then repurchased and sold.
Recycling Program
The Co-op recycles all materials approved by our recycling partners including non-waxed cardboard, refundable bottles, plastic wrap from our pallets and products.
Environment Friendly Programs
Some of our programs include electronic receipts, reusable takeout containers, travel mug discounts, and donations for bringing reusable shopping bags.
Environmental Policy
Hunger Mountain Co-op is committed to environmental excellence and pollution prevention, meeting or exceeding all environmental regulatory requirements, and purchasing products with greater recycled content, lower toxicity, less packaging, and reducing the use of natural resources.
For our environmental stewardship and sustainability efforts, Hunger Mountain Co-op was designated one of the first Green Grocery Environmental Leaders by the state of Vermont in 2016.
Buying Policies
Locally Produced
We prioritize products that are grown and produced by local or regional vendors.
Organic
We prioritize products that are grown and produced organically.
Non-GMO
We prioritize products that are genetically modified organism and hormone free.
Fair Trade
We prioritize products certified as fair trade and/or produced by cooperatives.
Green Packaging
We prioritize products that use minimal, recycled and recyclable packaging.
Humane Animal Products
We prioritize animal products that are humanely raised.
Locally Produced
We prioritize products that are grown and produced by local or regional vendors.
Organic
We prioritize products that are grown and produced organically.
Non-GMO
We prioritize products that are genetically modified organism and hormone free.
Fair Trade
We prioritize products certified as fair trade and/or produced by cooperatives.
Green Packaging
We prioritize products that use minimal, recycled and recyclable packaging.
Humane Animal Products
We prioritize animal products that are humanely raised.
Return Policy
Your satisfaction is a top priority. We accept product returns with a receipt within 60 days of purchase.
Product Review Policy
In general, the Co-op favors providing current and comprehensive information and reasonable alternatives to its customers rather than boycotting products. We support the exchange of information between customers about our products.