In today’s world, many people aim for healthy, beneficial eating habits, carefully reading ingredient lists and even following vegan or gluten-free diets. This trend is often reflected in eco-friendly stores or farmers’ markets, where the products are fresh, natural, and preservative-free. However, the selection varies between these types of venues. Next on houstoname.
Houston is home to both shops and markets, and the number of these eco-friendly options continues to grow each year.
Where are the best places to buy eco-friendly products in the city? What are the main differences between shops and markets?
Eco-Friendly Shops
We all occasionally indulge in guilty pleasures like sweets and fast food. However, following a healthy lifestyle — especially through diet — is a worthwhile choice.
A nutritious and eco-friendly diet is essential for well-being, longevity, and overall health. It’s also beneficial if the products are organic, with natural ingredients and without unnecessary additives.
While fruits and vegetables can be found in most supermarkets, eco-friendly products are harder to come by. Dedicated stores provide convenient access to products with a natural foundation and, often, eco-friendly packaging, such as cardboard instead of plastic. By purchasing eco-friendly items, we also contribute to environmental preservation.
Houston has a variety of such shops. They offer not only food products but also various cosmetics, personal hygiene items, and more — all made from eco-friendly materials. For instance, Refinement House offers not only natural foods but also eco-friendly toothbrushes, reusable containers, utensils, and other essentials.
Erma’s, a long-standing eco-friendly store in Houston, stocks farm-fresh eggs, milk, cheese, bread, and even vegan and gluten-free options.
If you enjoy natural honey but prefer to avoid store-bought varieties, try Bee2Bee Honey. This Houston-based collective produces and sells honey in various types, including lavender, fennel, and elderberry blends.
Houston’s Markets
Natural and eco-friendly products are also available at Houston’s markets. While shops are open daily, local markets operate once or twice a week. Thus, Houstonians tend to shop at stores on weekdays and head to markets for fresh items on weekends.
Popular markets include Urban Harvest, Rice Village, Memorial, and the Houston Farmers Market. These venues offer a range of fresh produce: fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat, milk, cheeses, nuts, spices, fresh juices, and more.
Markets often feature prepared foods and various delicacies. Some vendors bring freshly baked goods and brew coffee, attracting long lines, especially in the morning. After all, shopping goes hand in hand with a morning coffee and fresh croissant or pastry.
Shops vs. Markets: What’s the Difference?
There are notable differences between stores and markets in terms of offerings. Eco-friendly stores don’t just sell food but also carry vitamins, cosmetics, hygiene products, reusable cups, and bags (such as shoppers for replacing plastic bags). In other words, stores offer a broader variety.
Markets, on the other hand, primarily focus on farm-fresh produce, drinks, and prepared foods. However, this doesn’t mean that market products are not eco-friendly. Houston is home to markets that sell only vegan products, including fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and ready-to-eat meals.
Local residents make their choice between shops and markets based on location, preference for product variety, and personal beliefs.