Frequently asked questions. Keep an eye out on this recurring series as new questions arise. Written by Co-op Owner, Paula Youmell, RN, BodyMindSpirit Professional Health Educator/Author.

Every time you walk into the Potsdam Food Co-op you should instantly feel like you belong. While Equity, Belonging, Inclusivity, and Accessibility wasn’t part of the original seven cooperative principles, it has become one of the most important values and we work hard to create this environment every single day.

At their core, co-ops are about building stronger communities. From supporting local farmers and producers to encouraging sustainable practices, the Potsdam Food Co-op strives to make a positive impact on the people and environment around us.

This is a savory dish, packed with textures and colors. It’s creamy and rich tasting like risotto, but without all the stirring! It’s a full meal, with plenty of shrimp and crispy bacon to add protein to the pasta.

Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures. By working together, co-ops can make a bigger impact and continue building stronger, more connected communities.

The Mediterranean harvest was undoubtedly the inspiration for ratatouille, where eggplant, zucchini and other late-summer favorites come together so deliciously. In this version, your grill will give the veggies a kiss of fire and smoke before you chop and dress them.

Education is a key part of the cooperative movement. Whether it’s teaching people about healthy food choices, sustainable products, or how cooperative businesses work, the Potsdam Food Co-op believes that sharing knowledge helps strengthen both the store and the community.

French green lentils cook quickly and, unlike other lentils, don’t fall apart. That makes them perfect for a marinated salad. In this lively dish, the nutty lentils absorb a lemony vinaigrette, along with kale, feta, almonds and scallions. This is a great make-ahead dish, which only improves with a day or two in the refrigerator.

Autonomy and Independence is what allows the Potsdam Food Co-op to remain a business built by and for its community. By keeping decision-making power in the hands of its members, the co-op continues to operate with a strong connection and the values of the people it serves.

Sometimes you just want a really good version of the potato salad you remember from childhood. This one has plenty of eggs and pickles and just the right amount of mayonnaise. The dill gives it an herbal note.

This principle means that members contribute to and support the co-op financially, and in return, they share in the benefits. When someone becomes a member of the Potsdam Food Co-op they’re helping sustain a locally owned business that prioritizes people over profit. That support helps keep the co-op running, growing, and serving the community.

Pesto, potatoes and green beans are a classic combination and make a flavorful companion for an easy piece of roasted salmon. 

Spring bestows wonderful green plants shooting out of the earth into our yards, the woods, and fields.  Wild plants remind me of the ever changing and newness of life, the bounty of good food right outside of our home doors, and the nutritional value and healing properties of what many consider weeds.

After a long winter spring is finally here! We have numerous flower and vegetable plants outside the store that were all grown locally with no pesticides. Keep reading to learn more about what plants we have to offer.

Democratic Member Control is one of the key principles that makes co-ops unique. Instead of being controlled by outside investors, the Potsdam Food Co-op is owned and guided by its members. That means the community has a real voice in shaping how the store operates, grows, and serves the people around it. Members have a voice in the direction of the co-op by voting on important issues and electing representatives to help guide decisions. This democratic structure helps ensure that the store reflects the needs and values of the community it serves.

Everyone loves cookies. Via’s Cookies are made for everyone. All cookies are gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free. This ensures that almost anyone can enjoy these cookies regardless of any dietary restrictions.

Founded by Kirsten Maitlin and Fred Zwar in Austin, Texas, Rebel Cheese is a woman and veteran-owned artisanal vegan cheese company. After a 2024 Shark Tank investment from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner, they expanded to an 8,000-square-foot factory producing 8 million wheels annually. Operating in Austin and NYC, they offer 100% vegan, nut-based dairy alternatives. Their eco-friendly production uses 97% less water and generates 71% fewer emissions than traditional dairy. Named 2025’s "Best Artisanal Cheese" by VegNews, their products include soft spreads like Honee Pistachio Chèvre and firm options like Pepper Jack.

This hearty vegetarian soup tastes even better when garnished with crispy fried leeks, or chopped bacon or ham.

At its core, Voluntary and Open Membership means that anyone can shop and/or become an owner of the co-op. There are no barriers based on background, identity, beliefs, or experience. Whether you’re a college student, a longtime Potsdam resident, or just someone passing through who cares about local food and community, you have a place here. The co-op is built on the idea that community should be inclusive, not exclusive and welcomes anyone in the area to join.

Tuna packed in olive oil is so much better than water-packed, and this recipe will show you why. Instead of dry tuna that needs a lot of mayo or dressing, oil-packed tuna is soaking in flavorful fat and only needs a little tartness and seasoning.