If you’re looking for ethically-sourced, healthy foods that won’t break bank, try this member-owned grocery store in the Annex.

In this episode of “The Checkout,” we’re exploring Karma Co-op on 739 Palmerston Ave.

We found locally sourced produce, pantry staples in bulk, kombucha on tap and eco-friendly cleaning products — at very reasonable prices compared to other organic stores.

Karma Co-op was founded in 1972 to offer organic, local, fair trade and zero waste products. It’s run by more than 700 members who co-own the store and decide how it operates and what it stocks.

Anybody can shop there and anybody can become a member for $50 a year (or $20 for students). A membership allows you to become a co-owner, access goods for 10% less and participate in the store’s decision-making process. You can also volunteer two hours per month for further discounts.

The store is a five-minute walk from Bathurst Station, and it’s open every day with varying hours, so make sure you check its website before heading there. 

Karma Co-op carries fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables, a wide selection of pantry items, including lentils, pastas, different varieties of nuts, teas and spices. You can also find household essentials, such as dish soap and laundry detergent in bulk. 

On our grocery shopping trip earlier this month, we found a pack of Kettle potato chips for $2, bagels from St John’s Bakery for $0.70 each, a bar of Alter Eco Organic Chocolate for $5.49, a small bottle of plum vinegar for $3 and ready-to-eat samosas for $2 each.

Do you have a favourite locally owned store in your neighbourhood? Let us know and we’ll check it out next. You can send us an email at hello@thegreenline.to or a DM at @TGLhelps on Instagram and @greenlineto on Tiktok. 

You can also check more affordable grocery options with our Neighbourhood Food Map — including local stores, food banks, meal programs and more.