Food Stores

Grocery stores are the most common places to find food. They are big warehouses with large varieties of food and other essential goods. They often carry multiple brands of the same item. There is plenty of choice and selection at Canadian grocery stores. If you want to do all your shopping in one place, a grocery store is usually the best option.

Grocery stores have:

• baby food
• baking ingredients, desserts and fresh baked goods
• canned food
• cleaning products
• drinks
• flowers, cards and gifts
• fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs
• frozen and packaged foods and meals
• garbage and recycling bags
• household repair items
• kitchenware (utensils, dishes, cutlery)
• medicine
• pet food and pet care supplies
• prepared foods (sandwiches, soup, food platters, hot food and sushi)
• spices
• toiletries and bathroom products

Some grocery stores also carry a selection of wine, beer and cider.

You should bring your own shopping bags. Most grocery stores charge a fee for bags.

You can buy large quantities of goods at bulk food stores. They are often less expensive than grocery stores. Many bulk food stores use open bins. This means you can choose the amount of an item you want. This is good for large families and people who love to cook. Bulk Barn is a common bulk food store in Durham Region.

Bulk food stores often carry:

• beans, lentils and legumes
• candy and snacks
• dried foods
• flours
• grains
• nuts
• powdered drink mixes
• spices and seasonings

Some bulk food stores, such as Costco, require a membership to shop there. You usually have to pay for a membership. You can get one at guest services and then start shopping.

Some bulk stores do not offer shopping bags, so it is best to bring your own.

Grocery and bulk stores often have sales that can be found in store flyers, coupons and online. If you are paying with a flyer or coupon, show it to the cashier before you begin the checkout and payment process. Using these items can save you a lot of money over time. Be sure to check for expiry dates and terms before use.

These stores specialize in specific foods. They're great if you're looking for something precise. They often carry items and brands you can't get in grocery or bulk stores. They are sometimes more expensive, but can offer better quality items.

Specialty food shops include:

• butchers and delis (meat shops)
• cheese shops
• chocolate shops
• coffee shops
• free-trade, organic, and ethically sourced items
• gluten-free or wheat-free stores
• halal stores
• health food stores
• international and global food stores
• kosher stores
• pet stores and boutiques
• preserves (jams, jellies, chutneys, dips, pickled items and spreads)
• seafood and fish stores
• spice shops
• tea shops
• vegetarian and vegan food shops