Littleton Food Coop

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A Look Back at Eat Local Month 2019

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The Littleton Food Co-op was bustling with activity this August in honor of Eat Local Month! Take a look back at some of our favorite, most local-est memories over the past month:

 

1. Biggest Little Farm Opening Gala

To kick off the month we partnered with Meadowstone Farm and the Bethlehem Colonial to bring the critically acclaimed feature film “The Biggest Little Farm” to Bethlehem. We believe that our local farmers are the true superstars, and what better way to honor them than giving them the celebrity treatment. Farmers and movie-goers were treated to a feast of hors devours from Meadowstone Farm and the Littleton Food Co-op prior to the movie. We even had “paparazzi” photographer Isidro Rodriguez from Urban Nature there to document the evening. At 7:30pm we all sat down to watch “The Biggest Little Farm,” a film that covered the highs and lows of rural agriculture with such honesty and picturesque cinematography that it was hard not to feel something for the farmers and animals alike. It was the perfect movie and the perfect event to begin our celebration of all things local. 

 

2. Rooted in the Community

Also in early August we were joined by special guest Chad Proulx of ACHS for his conversation and discussion “Rooted in the Community.” Chad brought some new recipes as well as some summer classics to show how you can maximize your local (and healthy) eating. Participants walked away with valuable information, full stomachs, and swag bags! Thanks again to Chad and ACHS for another fun and informative workshop. 

 

3. Local Community Lunch

There’s no better way to celebrate Eat Local Month than eating local! On August 13th community members came together at the Co-op to feast on delicious local foods at our free community lunch. The Co-op sourced ingredients from all across New Hampshire and Vermont, and it was all hands on deck to make sure everyone had a chance to eat local. Over 200 community members showed up for the chance to try the products of Meadowstone Farm, Wozz! Kitchen Creations, McKenzie’s Deli, Vermont Coffee Company, Gingue Farm, Vermont Bread Company, and more. We hope this event inspired people to continue eating local (it’s not just restricted to August)!

 

4. Produce Farm Tour

On August 14th, members of our produce department, operations team, and marketing department had the opportunity to tour four of our local farms to gain a deeper insight on where our produce department comes from. The group started just down the road at Meadowstone Farm in Bethlehem. They got to peak into greenhouses and across fields with Tim, Sam, and Katie from Meadowstone, and even see some of the operations that stock our meat, cheese, and dairy departments. Next, they traveled to Four Corners Farm in Newbury, VT. Owner Kim Gray gave them a tour of their picturesque farmland from the back of her truck (which the team had a little too much fun with). From there, everyone traveled to Small Axe Farm in East Ryegate, VT. We saw every corner of this off the grid farmstead from owners Heidi and Evan (and farm dog Sally) themselves. Lastly, we ended the day at Joe’s Brook Farm with Mary and Eric. We chatted and toured the farm while picking their beautiful flowers and eyeing their abundance of produce that will one day end up back at the store. Thank you to all the farms for having us and giving us an inside peek at what local food looks like. 

 

5. Eat Local Day

Saturdays are usually a busy day at the Co-op, but when you add a dozen local vendors AND a member appreciation day into the mix it makes for a big party! Local producers and members of the Co-op staff spent the day talking to shoppers about a number of diverse samplings. Customers (and their taste buds) learned more about White Mountain Apiary, Blue Moon Sorbet, Red Kite Caramels, Eddie’s Bakery, Kingdom Kombucha, Vermont Smoke & Cure and more! This was a great opportunity for customers to try local products and see how far and wide local spreads. Thank you to all the vendors and customers who stopped by to show support local food. 

 

6. Partner of the Month Fair

Even though there are still four months left of 2019, we shifted our sights to 2020 at the end of August to pick our Partners of the Month for 2020. The decision process kicked off on the 20th with our annual partner of the month fair. Representatives from all twenty four organizations up for consideration came to talk with members and share why they think they deserve one of our nine open spots. Members were tasked with the difficult process of voting for their nine favorite organizations. Voting is open until August 27th – learn about voting here. Thank you to all the organizations for spending time with our members, and to our members for learning about our wonderful community partners.

 

7. Intuitive Eater Workshop

We ended the month by welcoming Kelsey McCullough, R.D, L.D to the cafe to present her workshop “Ditch Dieting and Reclaim Your Intuitive Eater.” Kelsey shared in an accessible and not intimidating way the dangers of diet trends, as well as tips and tools to overcome them. She covered what the media isn’t telling us! Thank you to Kelsey for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us and giving an introduction to intuitive eating.

 

Thank you to everyone who helped us successfully celebrate Eat Local Month here at the Co-op! Which August event was your favorite? Remember that eating local is a staple here all year long, so stop by anytime or visit our website to learn more about how you can continue eating local and contributing to our local economy. 

Zucchini-Based Recipes for our Favorite Holiday

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America’s favorite unknown holiday has fallen upon us. Did you know that more gifts are given today than any other major holiday? Okay, we made that up. But we didn’t make up today’s holiday (although we wish we could take credit for it). August 8th is National Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day. This gloriously green holiday was born out of the simultaneous realization that zucchini grows bountiful right around this time and there is only so much zucchini one can eat. Farmers and gardeners alike came to understand that the best way to rid of their excess fruits of labor was to slip across property lines in the dead of night and leave the desired amount of zucchini on the recipient’s porch. 

The problem with this method is not the delivery, because that’s flawless. The issue is that everyone focuses on the ceremonial act itself and not what happens afterwards, specifically on the recipient’s side. What are you supposed to do now that you have collected the ceremonial zucchini from steps outside your front door? 

Here are 5 creative ways to use zucchini this summer:

1. Zucchini Parmesan Crisps

For many, this recipe won’t come as a surprise or seem creative. Different circular vegetable imposters have been trying to invade the chip market for years. The great thing about this specific variety is the second main ingredient– the cheese. We won’t say that the cheese makes up for the fact that you have to eat a vegetable, but it might make it a little easier to ingest (or convince hesitant family members). For those who want to dive into the world of vegetable chips this is a great place to start.

 

2. Shaved Zucchini Salad

This recipe is like someone extracted all of the tastes you associate with summer from your mouth and put them in a dish– a summer salad dish nonetheless. This Shaved Zucchini Salad has notes of citrus, that fresh vegetable taste, and just enough pumpkin seeds to add an extra crunch and remind you that summer is ever fleeting. The addition of the macadamia nuts makes it a heartier salad without taking away from the citrus. 

 

3. Zucchini-Herb Fritters

Zucchini-Herb Fritters are another way to introduce vegetables into more foods without making it feel like a chore. This recipe can be thought of as the best of both worlds; you can still enjoy your potatoes while getting a serving of vegetables. In addition, the sauce strays away from a greek yogurt sauce to a garlic yogurt sauce. The only indecisiveness around this dish is whether to serve it as an appetizer or side dish. 

 

4. Avocado Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Zoodles (zucchini noodles) is another food trend that has been trying to make itself mainstream over the past few years. What might turn people away from this idea is that it’s tempting to leave the zucchini alone. However, zoodles cannot carry themselves like regular pasta. In this recipe, the zoodles are enhanced with a creamy avocado pesto sauce. The added tomatoes at the end give volume to the dish. 

5. Chocolate Zucchini Bread

We’ve all had zucchini bread, but how many of us can say they’ve had a chocolate version of the classic baking treat? If you’re looking for a way to sneak vegetables into the mouths of unsuspecting diners, this is the way to do it. You don’t even have to tell them there are vegetables in it (as long as you can come up with an alternative source of the tiny green flecks in the bread). This recipe also exchanges traditional oils for applesauce to up the healthy ante. 

 

We hope this gives you some ideas to do with your newly gifted zucchini. Or maybe you’ve been inspired to have a smaller holiday so you can keep more of your harvest for yourself and try the recipes for yourself. Either way, we hope you have a great National Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day! 

Beverages of the Week: Summer Beers from White Birch

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White Birch Brewery from Nashua, NH is one of the local beers that we have carried here at the Co-op since the very beginning. We were both founded in the Spring of 2009!
Lately White Birch has gotten into the summer spirit with 3 new beers that push the envelope. First up is a Pineapple Double IPA called Mahalo, which means thank you or grateful in Hawaiian. If you or a friend like pineapple and enjoy double IPA’s, this is definitely a must try – but be careful, this beer has a 9.2% ABV!
Other new items from White Birch include a couple of sours to add to our collection. Orange Creamsicle tastes like (you probably guessed) that ice cream favorite on a stick. For those looking for your antioxidants, White Birch Purple Monster would be the perfect choice. This sour has blueberry and pomegranate added. Who’s up for a purple beer?
Try these new offerings or your old White Birch favorites, now available at the Littleton Food Co-op.

June is National Dairy Month

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Start the summer off right by enjoying some calcium-rich foods in celebration of National Dairy Month this June. This honor was bestowed upon June back in 1937, and has been a running tradition ever since. If you’re fortunate enough to not be lactose intolerant, dairy products contain important dietary intakes including calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. These key nutrients offer a plethora of health benefits, including helping to prevent heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and having healthier bones, skin, and teeth. Even if you are unable to enjoy dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, we can all appreciate the fact that the dairy industry is becoming more environmentally sustainable. Dairy farmers are now using 90% less land and 65% less water to give us the same high quality products. In addition, the dairy industry is responsible for nearly one million jobs in the U.S, including a number in our community. Check out the dairy coolers at the Co-op to find products from producers like Robie Farm, Hatchland Farm, and Brookford Farm to support your local dairy industry.

New Year, New You (for real this time)

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Around now is the time when the phrase “new year, new me” becomes omnipresent, each person vowing that this year will be different than the year before and they will stick to their resolutions. Yet, here we are again, with a pile of past resolutions that have been gathering dust since Jan. 15th, 2017. That is where the Littleton Food Co-op comes in. Our vast store has a number of possibility for achievable resolutions. Plus, we’re open seven days a week with a friendly and knowledgeable staff to help you stay on track with the goals you set. Incase you’re still in your post-holiday food coma, here are a few resolutions you can consider for 2019:

 

1. Support the Local Economy

The best resolutions are the ones that don’t require you to change your habits. By shopping at the Littleton Food Co-op you are ensuring that your dollars stay in the local economy. It is easy to see how your money creates numerous jobs for community members. Behind the scenes, your money travels slightly outside the four walls of the store and into the pockets of local growers and producers. The buying power of the Co-op keeps some local businesses in operation and only serves to amplify the growth of others. In 2017 the Co-op purchased $1.8 million worth of products from local producers. Keeping our money local creates a cycle of positive development that uplifts all aspects of our community.

 

 

 

2. Go Green!

It is easy to go through your daily routine without thinking of how much plastic you are using. Only thinking about how much plastic you are using everyday can be overwhelming. There are a couple minor changes to your shopping habits at the Co-op that will reduce your plastic footprint. The first change is to use a reusable shopping bag to bring home your purchases. If your bags from home don’t find their way into the store, we have a wonderful selection of reusable bags available for sale. A second change is to shop in our Bulk department. You can bring your own reusable containers to the Bulk department to fill with whatever your heart desires. This reduces single use plastic from food packaging. Third, you can find a variety of products in store designed to help you on your journey to being plastic-free, such as bee’s wrap, bamboo utensils, and glass water bottles.

 

 

3. Learn to Juggle

The new year is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby, and there is no better hobby than juggling. Lucky for you, we’ve removed the obvious biggest barrier to juggling–cost. Our citrus sale is the perfect time to stock up on all your necessary materials. They come in multiple flavors like lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange, and miscellaneous citrus. And after you succeed, your materials are delicious to eat too.

 

 

 

 

4. Become More Involved in your Community

Your community should feel like more than just the place you picked your plot of land. An easy method to become a greater part of the community is through the Co-op. The simplest option is to become a member of the Co-op. Co-op membership gives you a democratic voice and a network of over 6,000 other community members in exchange for the few seconds it takes to fill out the application. As a member, you can attend Co-op Board Meetings and learn more about the governance of your co-op. Everyone likes to feel like a part of something greater than themselves, and the Co-op is a great way to do that.

 

 

5. Eat Healthier

We know, it’s a cliche one. But, we all know someone (maybe ourselves) who made this resolution last year but dropped it by the time the Valentine’s Day candy went on sale. One problem with this typical resolution is that it’s too vague. A modification to this resolution is to try a new eating lifestyle for a week or a month. You can be a vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, heck even a pasta-tarian. Some people find that having a specific set of recommendations helps them make more conscientious choices. The Co-op offers healthy and delicious options to fit multiple types of eating lifestyles. For example, the Bulk department has a delicious organic and paleo granola for those following the Paleo diet (eating food similar to what was consumed back in the Paleolithic era).

 

 

 

6. Practice Self-Care

You live a stressful life; work, school, family, trying to finish your favorite show before your free trial expires. Every person deserves to indulge themselves in something that makes them feel good. It can be as simple as taking a nap, eating a treat, or trying a new relaxation technique. While we do not recommend using our store for a nap (the floors aren’t that comfortable), there are plenty of other forms of self care that can be initiated through the products in our store. For example, stop by the store after work to grab a pint of local ice cream and bottle of wine to unwind after work. Or grab some essential oils to create a peaceful environment. Just don’t mix the ice cream and the oils.

 

 

 

 

7. Get Out of the House More

This can be a very difficult resolution to keep, especially when it’s zero degrees outside and more than zero degrees in your bed. However, if you can get from your house to your car, and then your car to the Co-op, you will find a number of exciting events taking place in the cafe. The cafe hosts beverage samplings, educational events, food demonstrations, and local non-profit events (just to name a few). You can find your reason to get out of the house today on our Calendar of Events.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8. Get Out of Your Comfort (Food) Zone

Ever wondered what sweet pea smoothies tasted like? Or how spicy cayenne honey peanut butter feels in your mouth? Or what the heck is umeboshi paste? Look no further than your favorite local co-op! With over 9,000 items in store, there is no shortage of new adventures to take in 2019. Pair with tonight’s dinner or stick it with tomorrow’s lunch. If you need food inspiration, check out our weekly newsletter for a recipe of the week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

9. Be More Charitable

I bet that your house is currently littered with pamphlets from different nonprofits asking for donations in your household. We know you’re not actively against charitable giving when those letters end up in the recycling bin;  it is an act that easily slips between the cracks in our minds. Luckily, donating to your favorite local nonprofits is no different than buying your food at the Co-op. Every person has the opportunity to round up their change after a purchase to send it to our nonprofit Partner of the Month. Then, on Friday nights you turn off your oven for charity and purchase a Co-op pizza for Partners and Pizza night. You may feel skeptical of this idea, thinking “It’s only a couple of pennies.” However, every customer’s “couple of pennies” contributed to a total of over $36,000 in 2018 to a dozen good causes. You can use your resolution to help us reach our goal of contributing even more in 2019.

 
10. Learn More About Your Local Co-op

We print more than just your receipt. Signing up for our weekly newsletter will keep you in the know about Co-op sales and events. Our blog recommends our favorite drinks, foods, and recipes. Our biannual Radish Newsletter gives you a glimpse of larger Co-op happenings and a look at where we’re going.

 

 

 

 

 

Did you set any similar resolutions already for 2019? Did you break any similar resolutions already for 2019? Whatever your goals may be, we hope they bring you a happy and healthy 2019. This year is your year!



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