The whole reason I started Shop Social Good was to document all the brands I can find that give back to the planet and the people living on it. But let me just say… nothing makes me happier when I find a brand that sells really practical stuff that I need. Look, I WANT a beautifully handmade artisan-made handbag, but I NEED toilet paper. Enter Brandless, a brand that sells pantry staples, kitchen tools, cleaning products, beauty & personal care items, pet food, and baby essentials.
What’s In a Name?
First, let’s talk about the name: Brandless. It’s a bit unusual. I actually was introduced to Brandless through a friend who works there. She explained to me that one of their hallmark traits is keeping prices really reasonable by not adding what they call the “BrandTax”. The “BrandTax” is the additional markup applied to products that include distribution costs, marketing costs, and shelving costs that get passed down to consumers. Because Brandless ships directly to the consumer, they eliminate all the middlemen and apply those savings to how they price their products.
A Large Variety of Products
But are the products any good, you ask? I have used many of their products and can honestly say that I’m really happy with nearly everything I’ve ordered. Many of their food offerings are non-GMO and organic. Their cleaning products are non-toxic with sustainable packaging options. The kitchen tools I recently bought are sturdy and well-made. There were a few snacks I was not a fan of, but I think that boils down more to personal preference, not quality.
Some of my personal favorites include the Sweet Jalapeno Lentil Crisps (so good and just a little kick!), the Dark Chocolate Quinoa Bites (the perfect amount of sweetness), and the Gluten-Free Brownie Mix (that stuff is delicious!). Plus, I must reiterate that those kitchen tools are so well-made and the prices are really amazing.
The most challenging part is really around planning. Especially if you’re buying food. It’s not like running out to the grocery store to pick up something really quick. Since Brandless is direct-to-consumer, it takes a few days to get shipped out. So, if you need something immediately, this isn’t the optimal choice. They do offer a subscription service for those interested. They offer free shipping once you hit a certain threshold (currently $48). I usually wait until I can order at least that much because who likes paying for shipping?
Partnering with Feeding America
Here’s where the social good comes in. With every checkout on their website, Brandless donates the monetary equivalent of one meal to Feeding America. Feeding America is the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States. 1 in 8 Americans struggle with hunger. 1 in 7 Americans use Feeding America’s network of food banks. Those greatest at risk for food insecurity are children and seniors.
Recently, I toured a local elementary school near my house. During the 10 minutes I waited in the school office for the tour to begin, at least 5 students came in to get a free granola bar because they didn’t have breakfast that morning. I was shocked and heartbroken that this was happening in my backyard. Hunger and food insecurity in America is a huge problem that we often don’t see, even when it’s right in front of us. Don’t believe me? Read this article from the SF Chronicle about the “hidden hungry” in the Bay Area.
Supporting Brandless’ partnership with Feeding America is a win-win situation for all. I love that I’m getting great quality, organic, non-GMO products at reasonable prices and helping feed someone in need. It’s a no-brainer!
Looking for more social good food & drink brands? Check out Shop Social Good’s Food & Drink directory!