Keweenaw Co+op Market and Deli, Hancock, Mich., recently featured its precut fruit and vegetable offerings via their Facebook page. Ariele Pizzo, Keweenaw’s marketing and outreach coordinator, saw an opportunity not only to highlight the benefits of precut fruit, but also to address issues of accessibility.
“Precut fruits and veggies often receive criticism, but it’s essential to recognize their value,” Pizzo says. “For many individuals, especially those with disabilities or dexterity issues, precut produce offers accessibility and inclusion in healthy eating habits. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring everyone has access to nutritious options.”
Pizzo acknowledges that some shoppers are leery of precut fruits and vegetables, due to their extra packaging, but she cited various scenarios in which precut programs can provide quick and easy incorporation of fresh produce into daily meals.
“Consider the case of a single mother with limited resources,” Pizzo says. “Purchasing a whole watermelon might not be practical for her household, making precut fruit a sensible option. It ensures that fresh produce remains accessible despite financial constraints, allowing families to enjoy nutritious options without waste.”
“As a co-op committed to sustainability and mindful consumption, we’re constantly pioneering new ways to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices in the grocery industry,” Pizzo says. “However, it’s equally vital to recognize the broader spectrum of benefits that certain conveniences, like precut fruits and veggies, offer to our community. By acknowledging the value of these options, we foster inclusivity and understanding among our patrons.”
Pizzo says Keweenaw’s posts about the service received several positive comments which noted some of the benefits of precut produce.
“Precut fruit can bridge the gap,” she says. “It can make healthy eating more attainable for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.”
For more information about accessibility, visit Co+op U to view presentations from Dr. Whitney West, an equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging speaker and disability advocate.
