Organic Goji Berries
Organic Goji Berries are the fruit that grow on a bush that develops like a vine when growing in the shade. At the very largest, the goji berry bush will grow 6 feet tall and have a radius of around 3 feet. There are an estimate of around 85 species of goji berry in Asia and 15 species in North and Central America. The goji berries can vary in colour from pale yellow to firey orange and deep red. The Asian species have been grown for approximately 5000 years. The goji berries from the NingXia valley are known to be of superior quality because the people of this region live longer (centenarians) and age more gracefully. The Chinese hold a strong belief that this fruit can significantly extend life.
Santos Organics is not your average grocery store; it's a not-for-profit social enterprise and environmental charity. Since 1978, we've pioneered the organic wholefood movement. Our stores serve as community hubs where people connect with our team and fellow community members, sharing a journey toward optimal health and wellness. The palpable sense of community forms part of the social and cultural fabric of the Byron Shire and Northern Rivers. Employing over 70 passionate locals, we support hundreds of local farmers, makers, and artisans, promoting the local economy, building community resilience, and strengthening the local food system. Approximately 75% of the food on our shelves is locally grown, produced, or supplied, nurturing interconnectedness and supporting those passionate about clean, wholesome food and sustainable living.
Santos Organics makes conscious shopping easy by sourcing the best organic food and natural lifestyle products. We invest in ethics research through a dedicated Ethics Specialist position, ensuring our products meet rigorous standards before reaching our shelves. Our Care Check process aligns products with our social impact and environmental goals, providing customers with confidence in their purchases. Our commitment to ethical product procurement extends to partnerships with local farmers through initiatives like the Grow the Growers Project. This project helps local farmers establish pathways to the organic retail market, making fresh, locally grown organic food more available and affordable. By incorporating supply agreements and mutual marketing support, we foster connections between customers and the farmers behind their food.
Santos Organics significantly impacts the local community and economy. Over the last three years, our investments in local employment, goods from local suppliers and distributors, rent, and hiring local tradespeople have retained over $26 million within the Northern Rivers. In the past year alone, $5.3 million was circulated back into the local economy through these efforts, supporting over 100 Northern Rivers-based suppliers and distributors. This investment sustains our community's vitality and unique culture. Employing over 70 local team members ensures money stays within the local economy, enhancing opportunities for community interaction and support. Our local suppliers share our vision of promoting creative, sustainable, and healthy product development, strengthening the reputation of the Byron Bay region as a hub for innovation and sustainability.
