This is why Natural Grocers:

• Does not sell conventional produce that can contaminate organic produce
• Maintains a dedicated certified organic washing sink, storage cooler and produce racks
• Uses dedicated organic-only food grade lidded plastic totes to hold produce prior to sale
• Uses only approved USDA Organic cleaning methods and materials on produce racks and displays

Our COVID-19 cleaning and hygiene  procedures are focused on these areas:

• Deep cleaning with detergents that are approved for organic handling. These are not used in ways that come into contact with organic produce.
• Readily available hand disinfectant using alcohol based and natural disinfectants that are compliant with organic practices
• Bleach disinfectant spray for surfaces and equipment, including shopping carts. These are not used in ways that come into contact with organic produce
• Masks and gloves for all crew members
• Social distancing and special hours for vulnerable populations

Based on these USDA Organic approved materials and methods, we believe our organic produce is fully protected at the time it is placed on display. Shoppers should do the following to ensure it remains organic and safe between choosing produce and consuming it:

• Sanitize hands regularly while shopping to reduce spread of pathogens
• Place produce into paper or plastic bags before placing into shopping cart, to protect from cross contamination
• When unpacking at home, wash produce and wipe down other products prior to storage and consumption
• Wash reusable totes after each shopping trip

In short, Natural Grocers is proud to confirm that its customers can continue to find 100% organic produce at our stores, and that our COVID control measures do not affect the organic integrity of our produce.