Quote from praetorian2:
Is there a way I can buy a diversified group of commodities without using futures?
Would you consider a mutual fund? If so, then perhaps the PIMCO Commodity Real Return Strategy fund would meet your requirements.
http://www.pimco.com/ps/bonds_prodserv_frms.asp?cont=/ps/bonds_prodserv_commodityreal.htm
No load shares are available.