Does the term “Stockpiling groceries” bring visions of survivalists loading up shelters waiting for the world to end? Or hoarders, obsessed with buying more than they can ever use?

If so, you aren’t alone. The average consumer buys groceries for the week, and runs to the store at least twice a week for additional items. It’s an expensive way to shop, and not exactly eco-friendly. And, for the shopper looking for organic and natural products, it can be frustrating.

Conventional grocery stores generally carry a limited selection of organic and natural products. Store shelf space is limited, and manufacturers compete for slots on those shelves. Companies buy or rent shelf positions, as well as warehouse space, and grocers give priority to products that will sell quickly and profitability. For every new product arriving on the shelf, an old product must go. So, as new organic products are marketed, old favorites may no longer be stocked.

Organic and natural products, with their absence of artificial preservatives and stabilizers, also may have shorter shelf lives. Organic produce is picked ripe and locally, and availability is generally driven by the natural season of the fruit or vegetable within the store’s immediate location.

So where does this leave the consumer? With one of the most natural practices of all: “Stockpiling”.

Our grandparents stockpiled! Historically, families “put up” fresh fruits and vegetables every year. During the peak growing season, fresh fruit was preserved to last throughout the year. Canning, freezing, making jams or jellies, drying, pickling, all techniques were used to extend the life of the freshest, sweetest, cleanest, and purest product around.

Families didn’t spend time, money, or eco-resources like gasoline driving to the store every day or two. Monthly shopping, or even less, was common, with supplies being purchased to last awhile.

While the times have changed, the needs of the organic consumer remain the same: Extending the availability of organic and natural products throughout the year, extending financial resources with sales and seasonal discounts, and extending our natural resources by responsible purchases. “Stockpiling” smart purchases provides one route meet these needs.

If stockpiling sounds like a strategy that could benefit you, read on to the next section.