What does Localize do?

Localize works with regional food businesses to highlight local food products in grocery stores in order to provide customers with easy access to information and help them make informed eating choices.

Bridging the gap between mainstream grocery stores and local food initiatives, Localize assigns each food item a score between zero and 10, with 10 being considered the most local. These ratings are posted on products in food stores.

What are the criteria used to determine a Localize score?

Several different components are considered, but the strongest emphasis is placed on the economic impact a local business has on the local economy.

Assessment Criteria Used

• The Location of Production: 45% of the score evaluates where the food is produced. For primary products like vegetables or meat, 'production' refers to the place where the food was grown or raised. For processed products, 'production' refers to the place where the food was prepared.
• The Location of Ownership: 35% of the score evaluates where the business is owned. The location of ownership is the place where the business pays its taxes. Independent ownership is valued highest.
• The Source of Ingredients: 20% of the score evaluates where food ingredients, based on weight, come from.
• Local Sustainability: Up to 5% in bonus points are given for each approved certification that demonstrates that the food business is taking measures for sustainability. Sustainability refers to human/social and environmental/animal welfare standards which enhance local sustainability. Examples of approved measures include Fair Trade and Organic Certifications.

Empowering you to shop smarter!

CO-OP® GOLD offers a range of products carefully selected to deliver exceptional quality and value every day.

Products carrying the CO-OP® GOLD label include grocery items, frozen meat, processed meat, pre-packaged deli items, bakery goods and produce.

CO-OP® GOLD also offers organic products guaranteed to deliver the same quality and value, while helping you be good to yourself and the world around you. Let us provide you with the opportunity to live a healthier and more natural lifestyle with CO-OP® GOLD Organic products!

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CO-OP® CENTSIBLES™ offers extreme value on basic everyday essentials.

Products carrying the CO-OP® CENTSIBLES™ label include an assortment of essentials with sizing and prices that are family friendly

Offering you a fresh food experience!

CO-OP® MARKET TOWN® provides a range of fresh products of exceptional taste and premium quality, all at a great everyday value.

Products carrying the CO-OP® MARKET TOWN® label include fresh cuts of meats and seafood, deli items, bakery goods, produce and pre-packaged fresh meals.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada work closely with municipal, provincial and territorial partners and industry to provide safe food to all Canadians. Learn about food allergens and other food safety concerns by visiting the CFIA website.    

Our tasty Spinach Dip recipe is always a crowd pleaser and can be served warm or cold.

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This mac and cheese recipe has a healthy twist.

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Try this healthy pork satay appetizer.

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Valentine's Mocktail

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Our deli manager, Joe's Butter Chicken.

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