Our Bulk Bags: Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about our Bulk Bags? Let's answer some FAQs:


“Are the bags compostable or recyclable?”


Some of our bulk bags are compostable, some are recyclable. Compostable bags will have the Turtle symbol on the back of the bag 🐢, while recyclable bags have the recycle symbol on the back ♻️


“What is Turtle Films?”


We work with Rootree to make our bulk bags, and Turtle Films is the name of their proprietary (but 3rd party tested) compostable material that the bags are made of. 


“What are the compostable bags made of?”


The compostable bags (Turtle Films) are made of 98% certified home compostable materials like wood pulp cellulose, starch blend and other non-GMO plant-based renewable materials. 


“Do the compostable bags really compost?”


Yes! Several of our staff members have put the compostable bags in their home compost bins and saw them break down. It can take them 8-12 months to fully decompose in a home compost bin.


“Where do I put the compostable bags?”


If you have a home compost bin, that is your best bet. You can place them in your kitchen compost bin collected by the city - however because they resemble plastic, they may not be properly dealt with at the processing facility and could be sent to the landfill. The good news is that if sent to the landfill, they still will not turn into microplastics or release harmful chemicals into the environment. 


“How long can the compostable bags last?”


The compostable bags are designed to last up to 6 months when stored between 15-16 Celsius at low humidity. 


“What are the recyclable bags made of and how to dispose of them?”


The recyclable bags are made of Polyethylene (FDA approved) and incorporates Post-Consumer recycled and Post-Industrial recycled materials. They are recyclable under Code 2 and can be placed in your blue bin. 


Have any more questions? You can read more about Rootree's Compostable Bags here, and their Recyclable bags here.


Or feel free to contact us and we would be happy to answer your questions.

A display of our biodegradable bulk bags

We are proud to partner with Rootree in making our bulk bags. They are a Canadian (Burlington-based) company that is dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable packaging solutions.


Protecting and preserving the Earth is one of our top priorities here at Jo Anne’s Place. It’s even in our Mission Statement: “Inspiring Wellness on Purpose, now and for future generations.” There are no future generations if we don’t take care of our environment!


Sustainable practices within our business include proper recycling, composting, and giving ‘imperfect’, bruised, or slightly off produce to staff members who have livestock or wildlife on their properties! We also offer ‘Produce Seconds’ at a reduced price to customers. 


And choosing Certified Organic produce is a major factor. Organic farming plays a huge role in protecting our planet, from keeping waterways clean to preserving soil integrity.


Fair trade is also extremely important to us, because sustainability is about supporting the equity of humans, too.


By sourcing the vast majority (over 80%) of the products on our shelves within Canada, often within Ontario, we help cut down on emissions through transportation.


We are also proud to carry many brands with sustainable practices and products with zero, minimal, recyclable, or reusable packaging.


Text: Fun Labour Day Acitivites in PTBO/Lindsay
Surrounded by trees, leaves and construction
By Jonathan Tessier August 20, 2025
This year, Labour Day Weekend is from August 29th - September 1st. There is still time for one last weekend of summer fun before the school year begins.
By April Allen August 14, 2025
This creamy vegetarian lasagna is comfort food at its finest! Hearty enough to satisfy any appetite, yet packed with veggies and nourishing ingredients you can feel good about. Perfect for family dinners and meal prep!
By April Allen August 14, 2025
We were scrolling through our archive of recipes recently and came across this one: 'Handy Dandy Candy' aka Carob Almond Squares, written by Jo Anne Fallaise. Yes, THE Jo Anne! So, we had to share! It's super easy, and super delicious - treat yourself!
2 pictures, 1st picture is a baked muffin sitting on a table, 2nd picture is a person putting a tray of unbaked muffins
By April Allen August 14, 2025
Bright, zesty, and just the right amount of sweet! These gluten-free lemon poppy seed muffins are the perfect quick breakfast, afternoon pick-me-up, or addition to a school lunchbox. Made with wholesome, gluten-free ingredients (not dairy-free, but can easily be made so if you prefer), this recipe offers a soft, moist texture with that yummy lemony taste and slight crunch of the poppy seeds. 
healthy lunchbox
By April Allen August 12, 2025
Packing your child's lunchbox (and your own) with wholesome snacks and lunches that are quick to make doesn't have to be difficult! Here are some of our favourite recipes that contain nutritious ingredients that kids love:
homemade protein bars
By April Allen August 7, 2025
Wondering how to make your own protein bars and balls? You've come to the right place! Whether you're powering through a busy morning, refuelling after a workout, or just need a wholesome snack to get you through the day, protein bars and energy balls are a great way to go! However, not all store-bought options are created equal, and sometimes you just want to customize the flavours to your favourites, which is why making your own is a great option. These are great to meal prep and keep in the fridge or freezer to have at the ready, and they are super customizable to your dietary restrictions or flavour preferences, so feel free to swap out any ingredients you don't love! Here are 3 easy, delicious takes on protein bars and bites: Chocolate Nut Butter Protein Bars, Superfood Breakfast Bites, and Spirulina Sunflower Oat Bars. Check out more of our Protein Bite and Autumn Energy Bite recipes!
 wt
By Jonathan Tessier August 5, 2025
Lemon juice has many different uses and health benefits. Just make sure you don't get any in your eyes.
quark quiche, cheesecake, and stuffed chicken breasts
By April Allen July 15, 2025
We wanted to take a moment to highlight a dairy product that doesn't get enough love: Quark! 
By Jonathan Tessier July 10, 2025
What is the Dirty Dozen and The Clean 15?
functional iced drinks
By April Allen July 8, 2025
Happy Summer! We hope you've been enjoying the heat, lots of outdoor activities, and are keeping hydrated. Speaking of hydration, today we are sharing some delicious, functional, summer drink recipes! Why not add some additional benefits to your summer sipping? These recipes feature mushrooms, collagen, matcha, and adaptogens to keep you healthy and hydrated all summer long! Below are recipes for 3 summer drinks with amazing functional benefits: