Anyone here a member of a food co-op?

[Cushie]

DH and I are looking at ways to save money and our grocery bill is a big part of our budget (mainly because we like to eat..haha). I found a few co-ops in my area but have never been to one.

 

How much do you save? How does it work? One that looks good is free, but you can become an owner for $150 and receive divendends.

 

Additionally, anyone recently buy a side of beef (half a cow, IOW)? How much did that cost and how long will/did it last you?

[Cushie]

Mods, will you move this to the Money section?

[Nemeweh]

I always miss out on our local organic co op, and I'm "on the list" for the closest butcher (2 hours away).

 

So no, and no.. but I'd love to do both. Just thought I'd throw that out there for ya

[baby duck]

Not part of a co-op, but we are part of a group of 12 families that buy fruit and veggies in bulk at a farmer's market every week. We each take turns shopping, and spend no more than $14 a family each week. We get a half portion ($7), and the food is always better than what we could get in the store. Last week we had nectarines, plums, bananas, peaches, tomatoes, okra, lettuce, chives, and cucumber.

 

I also hit the meat market today. First time . . . I'm not sure it was cheaper than a grocery store, but he did have economy packs, and I left with ground beef, chicken, a 3 lb roast, pork chops, andouille sausage, and some boudin for about $50. I'm hoping it will last me a couple of weeks at least.