Planet Organic Market is launching its first Thanksgiving Special Diet Food Drive for local food banks in all of their communities. With an increasing number of food bank beneficiaries – including children – requiring special diets because of health issues such as celiac disease, diabetes, food allergies and heart conditions, Planet Organic is collecting non-perishable items that are gluten-free, low sugar and low sodium, as well as vegetarian. Items collected during the drive will be donated to local food bank partners in communities where Planet Organic Market operates.

Special diet items needed most by food banks include non-wheat pasta products, rice and other whole grains, dry and canned soups, canned fruits and vegetables, breakfast cereal, baby food, canned/powdered milk and peanut butter alternatives such as hemp or almond butter.

Planet Organic Market has locations in Edmonton, Calgary, Port Coquitlam and Victoria. Donations are being accepted until Oct. 19. For more information, visit www.planetorganic.ca.