Top 3 Reasons to Embrace the Bulk Bins:
More Affordable Options:
Did you know? Purchasing from bulk bins typically costs less than their prepackaged counterparts. You’re not paying for fancy packaging or branding—just pure goodness!
Sustainability:
Bulk shopping = less packaging waste. It’s as simple as that. Not to mention, by using your own reusable containers or bags, you're further reducing the need for single-use plastics. A win for your pantry and our planet!
You Control the Amount:
Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a family of ten, the beauty of bulk shopping is that you decide the quantity. No more half-used bags of quinoa sitting at the back of your pantry! Buy what you need and not an ounce more. 
Now, are you ready to fill up those reusable containers? Here are 10 Foods to Buy From the Bulk Foods Department and why they're awesome for your health:
Not just tasty munchies, nuts and seeds are nature's perfect little snack. Rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, they help lower bad cholesterol levels.
They are also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for the heart. And if you're looking for antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium, look no further! They also provide a sustained energy source, keeping those afternoon slumps at bay.
Healthy Inspo:
Sprinkle them onto your overnight oats, toss them into salads, or simply enjoy a handful as a nutritious snack
Dried Fruits:
Beyond their delightful sweetness, dried fruits are condensed nutrition. They provide essential nutrients like potassium, iron, and fiber. Additionally, some dried fruits, like apricots, are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant vital for good vision. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation; they are calorie-dense!
Healthy Inspo:
Mix into homemade trail mix, bake into whole grain muffins, or top your morning cereal!
Organic Brown Rice:
Going beyond being just a side dish, organic brown rice is a nutritionist's favorite. It retains its natural bran layer, which white rice lacks. This means it's richer in fiber, supporting digestion and helping in blood sugar regulation. Additionally, it provides essential minerals like magnesium, which aids muscle and nerve function.
Healthy Inspo:
Stir-fry with colorful veggies or use as a base for burrito bowls. Yum!
Quinoa:
Quinoa is often hailed as a "superfood," and rightfully so. Apart from being a complete protein, it's gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. It's also abundant in minerals like iron, which supports red blood cell production, and magnesium, essential for various body processes.
Healthy Inspo:
Whip up a quinoa salad with fresh veggies, or use as a fluffy base in a veggie-stuffed bell pepper for a savory twist.
Oats:
Oats aren't just breakfast heroes, they're a dietary staple for those aiming for heart health. Beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber in oats, has been linked to improving cholesterol levels and boosting heart health. Plus, they're a slow-burning carb, helping you feel full longer and providing sustained energy.
Healthy Inspo:
Create a cozy bowl of oatmeal, bake into granola bars, or jump on the overnight oats trend.
Beans:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a favorite among vegetarians and vegans. They're also full of soluble fiber, which can help lower blood cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. Plus, beans are high in antioxidants, fighting off free radicals in the body.
Healthy Inspo:
Add to chili, mash for bean dips, or mix into hearty soups.
Lentils:
Lentils might be small, but their nutritional profile is mighty. They are an excellent source of folate and iron, supporting overall health. They also contain polyphenols, compounds that have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting heart health.
Healthy Inspo:
Toss in salads, simmer in soups and stews, or spice up as a side dish. Or try our just better.® Lazy Day Lentil Soup!
Spices:
Adding spices to your cooking is a calorie-free way to add flavor and many spices offer medicinal properties too! From turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties to cinnamon's ability to stabilize blood sugar, spices are nature's medicine cabinet. They don't just add flavor but bring a slew of health benefits, often rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects.
Healthy Inspo:
Experiment with new flavors in your dishes, or brew into a soothing tea.
Peanut Butter:
Buying in the bulk section means no additives, just peanuts —that’s it! Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat. It's packed with essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6.
Healthy Inspo:
Spread on whole grain toast, swirl into oatmeal, or just eat by the spoonful (we won’t judge!).
Unflavored, Unsweetened Protein Powder:
A fantastic way to boost protein in smoothies, baked goods, and more without extra additives. Unflavored, unsweetened protein powder is a versatile gem for those looking to boost their protein intake but don’t want a flavored mix or artificial sweeteners. Adding more protein to your meal plan aids muscle repair and growth, making it a post-workout favorite.
Healthy Inspo:
Blend into post-workout smoothies or sneak into pancake batter or freshly baked muffins for a protein-packed breakfast.
A Word on Bulk Bin Safety:
It is always essential to prioritize safety. Opt for stores or co-ops that have high foot traffic, ensuring the foods in bulk bins are frequently replenished and remain fresh. Freshness isn’t just about taste—it's about safety, too. Regular turnover means reduced chances of food sitting for prolonged periods, which can lead to contamination. Additionally, inspecting the bins for cleanliness and always using the provided utensils rather than hands is wise. And remember, once you bring your bulk goodies home, store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent any contamination.
JBB TIP: Write the purchase date of your bulk foods on your air-tight containers with a dry-erase marker or print out labels with your handy-dandy label maker!
Stop by the bulk food bins at your local grocery store to fuel your body with premium nutrition and champion a more sustainable lifestyle. Every mindful selection you make has a positive ripple effect, benefiting both your well-being and our planet. Stay inspired, stay informed, and live… just better.®!
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