Our customers are increasingly looking to incorporate eco-friendly initiatives into their everyday lives. As of October 19, 2023, bring your own reusable containers to any IGA and our employees will be happy to fill them up!

• The customer’s container must maintain the product’s freshness (example: do not leave your containers in the car all day in the summer, they will be too hot to preserve the product's freshness)

IMPORTANT: We reserve the right to refuse to use your container if it does not meet minimum food safety requirements.

We will be happy to serve you using your container; however, it is your responsibility to ensure the following:

• Your container must be clean and free of cracks, stains, impurities, or rust. In addition, its intended use must be to store food. 
• Your container must be made from an easy-to-clean material: for example, plastic, glass, or metal. Washable cloth or mesh bags are acceptable for dry food and produce.
• Your container must have a lid or closing mechanism. Depending on the product, it may also need to be airtight.
• The container must not be a commercial container with a barcode (UPC).

All IGA and IGA Extra stores will accept reusable containers as of October 19, 2023.

How does it work?

If you bring a container for:

• Produce

You must bring your empty container to the courtesy counter BEFORE filling it.

If you bring a container for:

• A service counter (example: Meat, Fish, Deli & Cheese, Ready-to-Eat, or Bakery)

Go directly to the department counter with your clean container in hand. The container will be inspected and weighed directly at the counter.

Using warm, soapy water:

There’s nothing better than adding a few drops of dish soap and warm water to clean your container. Make sure to scrub the corners! 

Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner! After washing your container with soapy water and rinsing well, fill it with 20% vinegar and the rest with water and let soak overnight. Empty and rinse well the next morning.

Using cleaning tablets:

There are several types on the market, so follow the package directions! Fill your container with water, add the tablet(s), let them dissolve, and let soak for 15 to 30 minutes (according to the directions). Empty and rinse. Your container is ready!

In the dishwasher:

If your container is dishwasher safe, cleaning it is a snap! A symbol on your container will indicate whether or not it can go in the dishwasher. If not, visit the manufacturer’s website for information.

These cleaning tips and tricks are guidelines only and provided without legal liability. It is your responsibility to ensure your containers are clean, sterilized, and ready for use.