Bulk Groceries Without All The Packaging in NYC

These days, practically everything in grocery stores comes packaged in something, whether it be plastic, cardboard, plastic and cardboard, dreaded styrofoam, or even paper. It’s safe to say that unpackaged foods and home goods alike are a rarity in the modern supermarket. Lucky for city-dwelling conscious consumers, you needn’t look any further than these New York City stores for waste-free, package-free shopping. These stores are changing consumer norms, one bulk bin at a time.

You might also like our guide to healthy and organic food delivery services and fair trade coffee.


Package Free

Recently opened by Lauren Singer, the mind behind the zero-waste lifestyle blog Trash is for Tossers, Package Free sells bulk home goods and bath & body products. Among the many natural, unpackaged products that fill the shelves of this bright and airy shop are small-batch naturally-made deodorant and Lauren’s all-natural laundry detergent. All you need is a mason jar, and if you’re in need of one, you can even buy one there. Likewise, you can pick up all kinds of goods that will make your reduced-waste lifestyle all the more easeful, such as stainless steel containers, linen food covers, bamboo silverware, and cloth napkins too. Check out their website for a list of their events for some zero-waste inspiration.

Where To Find It | Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Learn more about Package Free


The Fillery

When The Fillery’s founder Sarah Metz first moved to Brooklyn, the visible waste in New York inspired her to take action towards lessening food and packaging-related waste at a local level. With the motto “Goods for your pantry, good for the planet,” Sarah has embarked on the journey of opening a bulk food store with a mission to reduce packaging and food waste. After successfully raising funds during a Kickstarter campaign, the folks at The Fillery are currently looking for a storefront with plans to open soon. Follow along their journey on their blog as they move closer to opening.

Where To Find It | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn

Learn more about The Fillery


Your Neighborhood Farmers’ Market

Of course, you needn’t look further than your neighborhood farmers’ market for fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and the like. Come prepared with containers to tote your fresh-off-the-farm purchases for a zero-waste trip and while you’re at it, bring your compost to drop off stations housed at many NYC farmers’ markets. There are over 50 greenmarkets across the five boroughs and you can find the one nearest to you on this handy list.

Where To Find It | Your local neighborhood

Find a farmer’s market near you