How we started out

Wintergreen Natural Foods originally started out as a natural food store in Sara and Leo Aeikens' house called "The Sustenance Store"; selling mostly bulk items. In 1974, "The Sustenance Store" moved to a basement location under Unique Cleaners (downtown Albert Lea), and changed the name to "Wintergreen Food Co-op". Then in 1975, Wintergreen had a meeting to decide if the store should move or close. George Ehhardt offered the building next to the Seed House, and today is where Wintergreen Natural Foods is still located.
Wintergreen has made many changes throughout the years. From having an all volunteer staff to paid staffing, variety of products for our customers, changing and growing inside the store, and much more.
Wintergreen's history is made because of loyal members and customers.
We thank you each day!