DECEMBER 2008:
A Sampler of recent suggestions of general interest ... and our answers:

(another store) on River St. recently got rid of their bulk section almost entirely, THANK YOU for keeping strong with yours. But it would really help if you had more bulk dried fruits and nuts, so I don’t have to waste so much plastic.

Some stores are getting rid of their bulk sections because they can make more money from 4 feet of shelf space than 4 feet of bulk. We went the other way – to help people be able to afford great food, we have expanded our bulk selections.
We made a decision for sanitary reasons to move some “munchables” - popular nuts and dried fruits - into pre-packaged containers because, despite “no snacking” signs, we saw many a hand go into the bins and grab a handful to eat.
Buying in bulk is a great way to save money, try new products, not have to buy too much, and minimize packaging. Thanks for the feedback.

Have you heard what I have: that 95% of soy products are genetically modified, bioengineered? Monsanto, it is said, did this when soy was first introduced in this country. I don’t know if this is true.

Many soy (and other crops) that are not organic contain Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's). GMO’s have even been known to contaminate some organic crops by cross-fertilization. Testing is supposed to be done, but is expensive, and the government refuses to hold Monsanto and others responsible for contamination of organics.
For more info, go to the Organic Consumers Association website.Thanks, Chris

I grabbed a donation card for the food banks that you have – but there was already a name on it in the “donated in the name of…” part. Do you reuse these donation cards? Why?

Yes, we can and should remove the “filled out” cards – we missed that one. We originally planned to reuse the cards – believe it or not, this is the eighth year we are re-using these same cards – that’s why we made them from thicker paper - card stock - and didn’t put a date on them! It’s a great way to minimize paper use. We get some good names in the “name” slot – from “George W” to my personal favorite, “Earthlings”.
Also, I have to point out that when we started, our neighbors at Classic Copy and Printing (now Classic Grafix) did the printing for free!
Thanks for thinking of those in need during the holiday season. Our friends at the Greater Boston Food Bank and Food For Free – and all those they serve – appreciate your kindness.

Olive suggested that you put this in the newsletter… It’s time for shoppers to refresh their herbal stock. Throw out last year’s herbs and stock up on new fresh herbs.

Well, OK. And this is NOT an attempt to sell more stuff. Olive is a very experienced and knowledgeable herbalist who used to teach classes here. If she says it, it makes sense. Thanks, Olive

I miss the Chicken Parmesan in the Deli!

Me Too! I will talk to Fina and have her make it more often. The problem with selecting what to prepare is that some people want the same selection every time they come in, while others who shop here every day – mostly the lunch crowd – want new stuff more often. You can call Marc Cutler to let him know which side of this discussion you come down on.

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