Food co-ops seek fresh ways to stand out in organic market

Move over, tofu. Beef has come to the food co-op.

As mainstream supermarkets have upped their organic product offerings in recent years, many of the natural food cooperatives that sprouted decades ago on the fringes of their communities have grown into stores resembling modern grocery outlets - with meat and fish counters, in-store cafes and coffee bars.

Co-op advocates say the changes reflect both the desires of their member-owners and a need to compete with everyone from Whole Foods to Wal-Mart for organic food sales. But they say co-ops still offer something the national food marketers don't: ownership in a community organization dedicated to locally grown foods.

If you can't find just what you're looking for at your local market, check www.organic-food-and-drink.com for the best sources for organic wine, organic coffee, and more.