LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Natural Grocers® has just been awarded the 2025 Sustainability in the Food Industry Award by The Shelby Report. This award highlights those making a real difference in the food supply chain for the environment and society.
Natural Grocers earned this recognition for its exceptional Nutrition Education Program. This initiative aims to make nutritional education accessible and supports community health while being environmentally conscious.
Since its founding in 1955, Natural Grocers has prioritized nutrition education. This focus is one of the company’s Five Founding Principles, which have guided them for over 70 years. They are unique in employing a full-time Nutritional Health Coach (NHC) in almost every store, offering free, personalized nutrition advice where customers shop.
Each NHC completes over 160 hours of ongoing education yearly to stay current with nutrition science. They provide one-on-one coaching, tailored shopping experiences, and community classes to help people make sustainable lifestyle changes.
Raquel Isely, Natural Grocers’ marketing vice president, emphasizes that sustainability goes beyond sourcing. “My grandparents understood that nutrition education is vital for a healthier community and planet. Sharing knowledge empowers informed choices that benefit everyone,” she explains.
The Nutrition Education Program is not just about individual wellness; it’s a model that other retailers can follow. From their “Three Essential Hacks for a Healthier You” classes to various outreach efforts, the program fosters connections and builds trust in the community.
In a fast-paced retail world, Natural Grocers champions meaningful interactions. “Real sustainability starts with informed individuals making mindful choices,” Isely adds.
In a recent survey, 70% of consumers expressed a desire for more nutritional information from grocery stores. This shows a growing trend toward health consciousness in shopping habits. Supporting initiatives like those of Natural Grocers can significantly impact overall community health and sustainability.
The Shelby Report’s annual awards celebrate innovators like Natural Grocers that strive to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices from farm to table. By making informed nutrition a priority, these retailers are shaping a healthier future for everyone.
For more on this topic, you can explore resources from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service.
