Central Co-op is an independent, member-owned natural foods cooperative, but you don't have to be a member to shop. Come visit us at our home here in the heart of Seattle.

We invite you to share our commitment to products that are ethically-traded and sustainably-produced, and support producers within our local food economy. We offer a wide array of products, with a great selection of organics and foods for special and restricted diets. And consider becoming an owner to receive additional benefits and to become part of the Co-op community. Click here to join today!
 

FEATURED PRODUCT

Ruby Jewel Ice Cream Sandwiches, 5.1 oz.

A deliicious artisanal treat from Portland. Ruby Jewel's nationally famous ice cream sandwiches are handcrafted, and sourced from farmers and food products from around Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. We now carry four unique flavors, just in time for summer.

$3.99 each | Everyday Low Price

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Central Co-op is owned and directed by members of the community, keeping us rooted in our common values and accountable to our stakeholders. As an owner, you have the opportunity to help vision for the co-op's future by serving on the Board of Trustees. Sound like the kind of satisfying challenge you're up for? Fantastic! Read on for more information.
 

Central Register

Fight For Your Right To Know

by amanda welch, cooperative advancement

Thanks to your petition signatures and efforts to spread the word, this November we will vote on Initiative 522, the measure to require labels on genetically engineered foods in Washington. The petition for I-522, The People's Right To Know Genetically Engineered Food Act, was submitted with more than 350,000 signatures – way more than the 241,153 required. The Secretary of State certified the petition in early February, moving I-522 to the state legislature.

The public provided their input to the Senate Agriculture, Water and Rural Economic Development Committee during a hearing on February 14. Labeling supporters argued for transparency in food processing and for consumers' ability to choose to avoid GMOs for ethical reasons or because of health risks like asthma and food allergies. Also, segregating and labeling genetically engineered foods would help preserve export markets for farmers who sell to any of the 62 countries that already regulate GMOs.

Of particular importance to Washington's farmers is the projection that genetically engineered wheat will be grown in-state in 7 to 10 years. Behind Boeing goods and services, wheat is our state's number two export. The wheat is shipped mostly to Pacific Rim countries like Korea, whose flour mills say they will not import wheat that is not certified GMO-free.

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