Product and Vendor Selection Criteria

Product

1. Great taste and texture
2. Nutritional profile exceeds category norms.  (High in fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins; moderate in sodium, carbs, and calories; low in sugars and unhealthy fats. Protein is only a secondary consideration.)
3. All ingredients are at least minimally acceptable; no HFCS or sucralose; known support okay.  (See Ingredients to Avoid post.)
4. At least a 1 year shelf life
5. Withstands 3 hours in FedEx truck in Atlanta in August (with no special packaging)
6. Packaging: easy-open, preferably single-serve; prefer resealable if 2 – 3 servings.
7. Prefer at least 50% margin from vendor; have gone as low as 30% for certain products.
8. Reasonable minimum order quantity and dollar amount; no pallet shipments
9. Direct ordering or distribution through Good Stuff (we’re trying to get KeHE pickup)
10. Packaging materials: no large glass containers; minimal excess packaging; recyclable or compostable. For drinks, prefer Tetra Paks (no CRV).  BPA free.
11. Branding including look of packaging and outlets served. (Avoid kid or convenience store oriented branding.)

Company

1. B Corp
2. Community giveback
3. Environmental controls
4. Quality control; attention to supply chain
5. Independent of companies of concern such as Cargill and Mars (e.g. companies that have campaigned against GMO labeling)