Our visit to SCOOP - the sustainable co-operative
As part of our five Marks of Mission — To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth — members of St Columba’s Church visited SCOOP.
Scoop is a consumer led Co-operative taking positive action to create a sustainable supply of food on the island. With a vibrant farm shop, an innovative production kitchen, an inclusive cultural and educational programme their aim is to provide food that protects the natural resources for future generations, nurtures biodiversity and minimises waste.
We were met by Colin who told us how in 2018 Scoop started life as a farm shop aiming to remove unnecessary packaging and support local producers who care for the environment. Over time they have developed an educational programme with local schools, installed a re-use facility for glassware and plastic and built a production kitchen.
Scoop sells vegetables, dairy and meat that is produced in the island and are mostly organic. Other food is brought in from the mainland from producers who have organic creditation and with whom they have developed a close relationship. Organic dry food eg grains, nuts and seeds are bought by them in bulk and you can bring your own containers and buy exactly the amount you require.
The same applies to cleaning products of which they have an extensive range. Scoop’s production kitchen provides an opportunity to reduce food waste by finding creative and delicious uses for surplus or abundant produce they make pestos, hummus, preserves, ferments, dips, snacks, cakes and ready meals. They also source delicious bread from an organic artisan bakery.
Unfortunately neither the kitchen or the bakery was in action on the day we visited and we were unable to sample their products but I can tell you from personal experience they are delicious!! We did have a good tour of the shop and were able to purchase lots Our thanks go to Colin and Kasper for their warm welcome and a very informative and enjoyable visit.