Today, Wellfare is unveiling Better Box Approved, our new set of product standards that ensure we only procure, pack and deliver the most nutritious and functional groceries we can.
These standards aren't set in stone, though. As we evolve into new categories like refrigerated, produce and beyond, we'll look to add to these guidelines to make sure they're always current and practical.
But more importantly, our guidelines will be directly informed by the communities we serve. We will continue to engage our member families, working together to set a new standard for grocery and nutrition. Let's dive in!
❌ What We Don't Accept
Wellfare will no longer accept product donations that include any ingredients listed in Whole Foods' Food Ingredient Quality Standards. Our partner Whole Foods is a leader in the natural food space and a glowing inspiration for our Better Box program. Their banned ingredients list, which includes over 230 items like like hydrogenated fats, high-fructose corn syrup, aspartame and more, is incredibly thorough and a good foundation for Wellfare.
📈 What We Prioritize
As a nonprofit, we're sometimes at the mercy of what's available in the marketplace. But the majority of the time, we're presented with a litany of options to choose from. To that end, we prioritize products that are:
• Low-to-no in total sugar and added sugar
• Low in sodium
• Low in fat
• Non-GMO
Lastly, we want to procure, pack and deliver products that taste great.
Agree with any of these standards? Disagree? Want us to add more? Let us know by emailing hi@wellfare.org. Input from the communities we serve on-the-ground and the community we're building online is critical for us!