If you’ve ever wanted to shop more sustainably, reduce your household waste, or just find a place that actually values quality and community, Graina bulk food store might be exactly what you’re looking for.
As more Aussies seek ways to live with less plastic and more purpose, bulk food stores like Graina are growing in popularity, and for good reason.
In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Graina: what it is, how it works, what it offers, and why it’s making waves across Melbourne. We’ll also answer all your burning questions about bulk food shopping, prices, and how it compares to traditional supermarkets.
What Is Graina Bulk Food Store?
Graina is a Melbourne-based bulk food store focused on sustainable, zero-waste, and plastic-free shopping. It’s more than just a shop, it’s a movement towards conscious consumption. At Graina, you can bring your own containers, scoop out exactly how much you need, and skip the plastic packaging altogether.
They sell a wide range of pantry staples, cleaning products, personal care items, and snacks, all available in bulk. You’ll find everything from organic rice and gluten-free pasta to handmade soaps and shampoo bars.
Their motto? “We make zero-waste shopping simple, convenient, and accessible.”
TL;DR: Graina is a bulk food store in Melbourne offering zero-waste, package-free shopping with a wide range of pantry, household, and personal care items.
Where Are Graina Stores Located?
Currently, Graina operates three locations in Melbourne:
- Hawthorn – 382 Burwood Rd
- South Melbourne – South Melbourne Market
- Armadale – 1032 High St
Each store is designed with minimalism, cleanliness, and convenience in mind. You’ll find friendly staff who are always happy to guide new customers through the bulk-buying process.
They also run an online store that delivers to most metro Melbourne suburbs and regional Victoria, making sustainable shopping even more accessible.
What Can You Buy at Graina?
Graina’s product range is surprisingly broad. Unlike some bulk stores that only focus on dry goods, Graina offers both food and non-food items.
Bulk Food Items
- Grains, rice, lentils, legumes
- Flours (including gluten-free options)
- Pasta and noodles
- Nuts and seeds
- Dried fruits
- Spices and herbs
- Baking ingredients
- Oils and vinegars
- Snacks and sweets (like dark chocolate-covered almonds)
Eco-Friendly Household Items
- Reusable containers, bottles, wraps
- Dishwashing powders and liquids
- Laundry detergents
- Cleaning sprays
Personal Care Products
- Bar soaps and shampoos
- Toothpaste tablets
- Deodorant creams
- Refillable skincare
All products are sold by weight, so you can buy as much or as little as you like.
Why Shop at a Bulk Food Store Like Graina?
There are several reasons people are ditching traditional supermarkets for bulk food stores:
1. Less Plastic Waste
Bulk stores like Graina encourage customers to bring their own containers, drastically cutting down on single-use packaging.
2. Buy What You Need
No more wasting half a packet of almond meal, you can scoop just the amount you need.
3. Healthier Choices
Graina focuses on organic, natural, and minimally processed products without unnecessary additives.
4. Community and Values
It’s not just a store, it’s part of a growing zero-waste, climate-conscious community.
5. Price Transparency
You’re paying for the product, not the brand name or flashy packaging.
Is Graina Expensive?
Bulk stores often have a reputation for being pricey, but that’s not necessarily the case with Graina. Prices can be competitive, especially when you compare per-kilo rates with health food sections in major supermarkets.
You also save money by reducing food waste, only buying what you need. And when you factor in the environmental benefits, many customers feel it’s well worth the investment.
TL;DR: Graina’s prices are fair and often competitive. You can save by buying only what you need and avoiding waste.
How Does Graina Work?
Here’s how the Graina shopping experience works, step-by-step:
- Bring Your Containers (or Buy In-Store): You can also use compostable paper bags or glass jars provided at the store.
- Weigh Your Container: Use the digital scales to print a barcode for the empty weight.
- Fill Up: Scoop your desired amount of food or product into the container.
- Weigh and Pay: Staff will subtract the container’s weight and charge you only for what’s inside.
Online orders are packed in eco-friendly, compostable bags or returnable containers.
FAQs About Graina Bulk Food Store
Is Graina 100% plastic free?
Yes. Graina is committed to being plastic free. Products are displayed in bulk dispensers, and customers are encouraged to bring reusable containers. Online orders are packed using compostable bags or reusable packaging.
Do you have to bring your own containers?
It’s encouraged but not essential. Graina offers paper bags, reusable containers, and glass jars for purchase or use in-store.
Can you shop online at Graina?
Yes, their online store allows you to order bulk goods, eco-products, and personal care items. They deliver across Melbourne and some regional areas in Victoria.
Are Graina products organic?
Many are, but not all. You’ll find a wide selection of organic grains, nuts, and pantry staples, clearly labelled both in-store and online.
Is Graina vegan-friendly?
Definitely. While they do stock some honey, the vast majority of products are vegan-friendly and plant-based.
Can you return containers or packaging?
Yes, for online orders using the Refilled Reusables program, containers can be returned for cleaning and reuse.
Is it cheaper to shop in bulk?
It depends on what you buy. For staples like rice, oats, and lentils, bulk shopping can be cheaper. You also avoid waste and packaging costs, which adds value.
Does Graina offer refills for liquids?
Yes, you can refill things like olive oil, vinegar, cleaning sprays, and even shampoo and conditioner—bring a bottle and fill it up.
Is Graina Worth It?
Graina is more than a place to shop, it’s a platform for Australians to rethink how they consume. Whether you’re just starting your zero-waste journey or already a seasoned bulk buyer, Graina makes sustainable living more accessible, affordable, and enjoyable.
It’s a small step with a big impact, cutting down on plastic, supporting ethical products, and making sure nothing goes to waste.
TL;DR: Graina is a practical and inspiring way to shop sustainably, save money, and reduce your environmental footprint.
Want to Visit or Shop Online?
Check out Graina’s full product range and delivery options here: www.graina.com.au