Thrive Notebook

What Is Thrive Market Goods? Meet the Brand That’s Bringing Goodness to the World

brittany.benz@thrivemarket.com (Brittany Benz) — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 14:00:58 +0000

Meet Thrive Market Goods, our expertly curated line of 500+ products we’ve developed from scratch to raise the bar for pantry basics. Every product in the collection—from tomato sauce and pasta to paper goods and cleaning products—breaks new ground when it comes to quality, sustainability, and taste, and challenges other brands to keep up. Our dedicated team of product innovators works with top-tier producers and suppliers around the world to hone recipes, adjust supply chains, and elevate environmental standards to create products that are better for you, your wallet, and the planet.

The Thrive Market Goods Difference

“When it came to developing Thrive Market Goods, we really wanted to make sure the line was centered around our core values, while ensuring that everyone throughout the supply chain—from seed to site—was thought of and cared for,” says Jeremiah McElwee, Senior VP of Merchandising and Product Development.

This means searching the globe for products that not only deliver on nutrition and flavor, but also sustainability and social impact. From traveling to Peru to ensure our coffee is ethically sourced to investing in regenerative farming practices, we’ve established a new gold standard for hundreds of products that you won’t see anywhere else. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that farmers are being encouraged to utilize regenerative, organic growing practices, while being paid fairly so their families can flourish,” McElwee says.

Our Standards Come Standard

Our team is devoted to enhancing and improving the products you love most, while staying ahead of trends to bring you exciting products that have yet to reach the mainstream. “We’ve really been able to raise the bar on quality and conscious sourcing,” McElwee says. “You can trust that nothing makes it into Thrive Market Goods without being thoroughly vetted by our team according to the highest standards in the industry.”

Whether it’s single-source olive oil or sustainably caught seafood, every product from Thrive Market Goods is:

Organic or non-GMO
Rigorously sourced for quality
Produced in a way that meets strict sustainability standards
Made from simple ingredients
Part of a business model that benefits or gives back to the community
Affordable
Delicious!

Must-Have Products from Thrive Market Goods

Stock your shelves with everything you need to thrive, from supplements and snacks to non-toxic cleaning supplies and body care products—and more!

Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Made from 100 percent Certified Organic Koroneiki olives, our Extra Virgin Olive Oil is grown, harvested, cold-pressed, and bottled on a single estate in western Crete.

Organic Apple Sauce

Not only is our Organic Apple Sauce free of added sugar and preservatives, but it’s also produced in a sustainable facility that uses solar power.

Biodynamic Pastas

Using wheat grown through biodynamic farming practices, each batch of pasta is crafted using antique bronze plates, which create a coarse exterior that’s ideal for soaking up sauces (and flavor!).

Organic Breakfast Blend Coffee

Our Organic Breakfast Blend Coffee is ethically sourced from the Andean foothills of Peru and roasted in small batches for maximum flavor.

Collagen Peptides

Promote youthful-looking skin, hair, and nails* with our Collagen Peptides. They’re made from the hides of non-GMO, grass-fed bovines and easily dissolve into hot or cold liquids.

Organic Matcha Teas

Hailing from the famed Shizuoka and Kagoshima regions of Japan, our Organic Matcha Teas are shaded prior to spring harvest, which boosts chlorophyll production and results in a deeper taste and aroma.

Meat & Seafood

From free-range chicken to grass-fed beef, all of our protein offerings are sustainably sourced and ethically raised. Plus, they’re free of added hormones, antibiotics, dyes, and fillers.

Cleaning Supplies

Put a cleaner spin on cleaning supplies! Our laundry and dish detergents are made from naturally-derived ingredients that are eco-friendly, safe, and effective.

Bath Tissue

Make a difference in the world by swapping your TP for ours! Each roll is made with an eco-friendly blend of recycled pulp and renewable bamboo, which is naturally watered with rainwater and requires no pesticides or fertilizers to grow.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post What Is Thrive Market Goods? Meet the Brand That’s Bringing Goodness to the World appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Discover Thrive Market Biodynamic® Pastas (and Taste the Difference!)

brittany.benz@thrivemarket.com (Brittany Benz) — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 14:00:33 +0000

The story of Thrive Market Biodynamic® Pastas begins in the Tavoliere delle Puglie region of Italy, where organic whole wheat is biodynamically farmed and crafted into pasta using old-world techniques. Not familiar with biodynamic farming? Below, we’re breaking it down and offering a closer look at how the technique sets our pasta apart.

What is Biodynamic Farming?

Biodynamic farming is an ecological approach to agriculture that takes the tenets of the organic movement to the next level. It was developed by scientist and philosopher Dr. Rudolf Steiner in 1924. Dubbed "the father of biodynamics,” Steiner believed that harmonizing all aspects of the farm—from the sun to the soil—would support animals and plants in their most natural state and produce nutrient-dense food in the process.

“When creating our line of pastas, we were really excited to find a supplier that was passionate about the biodynamic movement," says Will Lochran, Thrive Market Product Innovator. "As a brand, we’re working to move beyond organic. Biodynamic agriculture focuses not only on preserving the planet, but also on improving it.”

Our Biodynamic® Pastas are certified by Demeter, the oldest ecological certification organization in the world, and the only biodynamic certifying body in the United States. To grow the organic whole wheat in our pastas, our farmers follow these biodynamic practices:

View the farm as a complete living organism
Avoid pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and all chemicals
Use farm-generated, living solutions to pest control
Practice rotational grazing and the rotation of crops, which improves soil quality
Set aside at least 10 percent of total acreage for biodiversity
Consider the wellbeing of the farm, the animals, the workers, and the Earth

Breaking the Mold

Our wheat is sourced from the heart of Tavoliere Plain—Italy’s granary—where our supplier works with family farmers and pasta makers who follow centuries-old techniques. Once harvested, the wheat is milled and extruded through antique bronze plates, or “dies,” to give the pasta its shape. Unlike conventional Teflon plates, bronze plates give the pasta a rougher, more porous texture that’s ideal for soaking up sauces and flavors.

While there are more than 500 different shapes of pasta produced in Italy, they can be sorted into three basic categories: long cut, medium cut, and short cut. Our line of Biodynamic® Pastas come in three shapes: fusilli and penne (both short cut), and spaghetti (long cut).

Looking for other pasta types and shapes?

More Pastas from Thrive Market Goods

From organic farfalle and linguine to brown rice fusilli and chickpea shells, Thrive Market Organic Pastas offer something for everyone (even gluten-free eaters).

Organic Farfalle

Each batch is ethically sourced and crafted in Italy, using family traditions that have been passed down for generations. Farfalle means “butterflies” in Italian, a fitting description of the pasta’s winged shape, which pairs well with rich and hearty sauces.

Organic Linguine

Ready for pasta night? Give our Organic Linguine a twirl! It’s made from high-quality durum wheat grown in Southern Italy. Use it to make linguine ai frutti di mare, or simply toss with a flavorful marinara.

Organic Brown Rice Fusilli

Now, even those on a gluten-free diet can enjoy pasta night again! Made from 100-percent organic brown rice flour and water, our Organic Brown Rice Fusilli is gluten-free gratification in a bowl.

Organic Chickpea Shells

Our Organic Chickpea Shells swap traditional starches for gluten-free alternatives like chickpea and brown rice flours. Each bite delivers more protein (14g per serving) and fewer carbohydrates than traditional shells.

And there's more—check out the rest of the line.

Our Best Pasta Recipes

Ready to mangia? Just boil a pot of water and you’re halfway to a wholesome, flavorful meal. Here are a few ideas to bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen—buon appetito!

Perfect Carbonara

Carbonara fans, rejoice! This quick and easy recipe combines our Organic Biodynamic® Spaghetti with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and bacon for a classic comfort-food meal.

Vegan Shells & Cheese

Indulge your creamy pasta cravings with a comforting, plant-based dish that coats our Organic Chickpea Shells with a cashew-based sauce. Bonus: It’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Drunken Pasta

This ruby red pasta gets its color from an entire bottle of—you guessed it—red wine! Our Organic Brown Rice Spaghetti drinks up the vino, transforming plain noodles into a rich and robust dish.

Chlorella Avocado Pesto Noodles

Chlorella powder and avocado take traditional pesto to new heights in this unique recipe. Toss it with our Organic Biodynamic® Spaghetti for a satisfying main course you can enjoy any day of the week.

Penne Alla Vodka

A vegan twist on a classic, this recipe subs the dairy for a decadent cashew-based sauce. Pro tip: Swap the red lentil pasta for our very own Organic Chickpea Penne.

The post Discover Thrive Market Biodynamic® Pastas (and Taste the Difference!) appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Comfort Food Made Easy with DadaEats

lily.comba@thrivemarket.com (Lily Comba) — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 13:30:14 +0000

Samah Dada loves to eat—actually, that might be an understatement. A native of Newport Beach, California, Dada’s true love for food blossomed when she and her family moved to London. From hole-in-the-wall Indian restaurants to Sicilian-style pizza, London’s foodscape was transformative for her palate. Now, Dada is pursuing her passion for wellness and food through DadaEats, her blog and social media platform that have amassed quite a following due to her vibrant recipes and personality.

After appearing on “The Today Show” with her own segment, #COOKING, Dada is excited for the next chapter in her food journey—sharing how to make the best comfort foods and snacks a little healthier with Thrive Market.

When did you discover your love for cooking and baking?

I grew up in the kitchen watching my mom cook traditional homemade Indian dishes. The thing is, she would always opt for healthier ways to create the traditional comfort favorites, swapping butter for olive oil and cream-based curries for tomato-based. My passion for cooking and baking—and doing so in a mindful and intentional way—came from those early days of spending time at home in California with my mom. Since then, my passion for food has completely morphed and transformed into something I could never have dreamed of!

Walk us through your process of making your favorite recipes a bit more healthy.

Here’s the thing: I love food. (I’m sure you’re not shocked by this.) But, at the same time, I love feeling healthy, exercising, and being mindful about the entire experience of eating. When I started getting really into health and wellness, I noticed that there was a tendency for people to view being healthy in an all-or-nothing sort of way. So, if I’m “healthy,” does that mean I’m not supposed to have a cookie? That mentality didn’t sit right with me because I truly love dessert, cookies, cakes, ice cream, pasta—all of the types of meals that have an indulgent and “unhealthy” connotation. I’ve never believed that being healthy means giving up all of those things—rather incorporate them in ways that truly make you feel satisfied and amazing after everything you eat. This realization motivated me to start writing recipes that turned my favorite meals into ones with real ingredients, so that anyone who wants to pursue a more mindful and healthy lifestyle feels like they can bake their cake and eat it, too.

How do you choose your ingredients?

I choose ingredients that are minimally processed, sustainable, and organic when possible. For my baked goods, I tend to gravitate towards almond flour and coconut flour, as they are both grain- and gluten-free flours that I love to work with in the kitchen. I like to find alternatives to the classics so as to make my recipes more inclusive for everyone—whether they’re gluten-free or not gluten-free, vegan or not vegan. I want there to be an option for everyone—something they’d intentionally choose and can’t wait to make.

You’ve got quite the busy schedule. How do you prep your recipes so you can eat them on-the-go?

It’s all about being organized! I try to meal prep one dish for lunch and one dish for dinner at least three days out of the week. That way, I know I’ll have something waiting for me at home when I’m exhausted after a long day. It also leaves room for a couple days out of the week to eat something else if I’m craving it, or go out to eat with friends.

My favorite recipes to meal prep include my Avocado Cream Pasta, Spinach Pesto Pasta, Chili, and Cauliflower Fried Rice. I always have hummus, carrots, berries, apples, rice cakes, and nut butters on hand as essential staples that I can grab when I need a snack!

What are your favorite recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?

I go through phases with all of my meals to really stay in tune with what I’m craving week to week. For breakfast these days, I’ve been loving rice cakes with almond butter, banana slices, honey, and cinnamon. I also have been eating a ton of avocado toast with pink salt, pepper, and “everything but the bagel” seasoning, along with a spinach salad and 8-minute eggs.

For lunch, I’ll usually throw together a salad with roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, hummus, a veggie burger, carrots, and some kind of crunch (usually plantain chips or Siete Grain-Free Tortilla chips).

For dinner, I have been eating my spinach pesto pasta on repeat, with roasted tomatoes, almond milk ricotta and garlic bread!

What are your top tips for healthy snacking? Other than popcorn, of course, which we all know that you love ...

I am a huge snacker! Of course, I love my popcorn, but I’m also a huge fan of keeping rice cakes around. These are so easy to pair with a nut or seed butter, top with sliced bananas or berries, drizzle with honey, and add cinnamon. I’ve also been whipping up my Nut-Free Maple Granola Bars to have with my afternoon cup of coffee. And, of course, I love a good apple with peanut butter, granola, and cinnamon, as well as carrots and plantain chips with my homemade Hemp Seed Hummus!

What do you love most about Thrive Market?

It’s obvious that Thrive Market is an amazing online marketplace and resource for healthy food, snacks, and ingredients for everyone’s kitchen, diet, and lifestyle. But my favorite part about it is the commitment not just to partnering with sustainable and ethical companies, but to giving back to the community. One of the main reasons why I feel so aligned with Thrive Market is because of the Thrive Gives program. Knowing that every time someone joins, a membership is donated to a low-income family, teacher, veteran or student makes me love the company even more than I already do. (Because let’s be honest—getting groceries delivered straight to your door is a pretty gorgeous thing to begin with.)

What made you switch to online grocery shopping? How has Thrive Market changed the way you shop?

I’m going to be honest: I love grocery shopping. I am actually a little bit obsessed with it, so I love discovering new ways to do it! Thrive Market has allowed me to be very intentional with my grocery shopping. It’s exciting to be able to filter the products so seamlessly by category, diet, and preference—and to be able to discover new products along the way that fall under those same umbrellas. It is also an amazing time-saver when I’ve had a crazy week and want to have my groceries come to me instead of me going to them. It’s pretty exciting to see how Thrive Market’s prices are a lot lower than brick-and-mortar stores, too—definitely a plus when I am constantly testing new recipes.

The post Comfort Food Made Easy with DadaEats appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Vegan Shopping List: Groceries, Products & More

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 10:00:00 +0000

If you’re putting together a vegan shopping list, this post is for you. From condiments to meat alternatives, we’ve rounded up some of the top vegan products our Thrive Market members can’t live without.

What Is a Vegan?

Similar to vegetarians, vegans don’t eat meat, but veganism takes the diet a step further, eliminating all animal products including eggs, dairy, and animal byproducts. For many vegans, the “animal-friendly” philosophy often extends to other lifestyle products like skin care, beauty, and clothing—they might steer clear of leather garments and products that are tested on animals, for example.

Certified Vegan Condiments

Fresh produce is essential to any healthy eating plan, but don’t forget to fill out your vegan diet food list with condiments that’ll add extra flavor to your favorite dishes.

Thrive Market Organic Yellow Mustard

This quintessential condiment is a must-have for any vegan fridge. Made from only six ingredients, this spread is tangy, bright, and slightly pungent, perfect for dressing up potato salad or smearing on veggie sandwiches.

Daiya Deluxe Cheddar Style Cheese Sauce

Say hello to the ultimate “cheese” sauce. Vegans (and non-vegans) will love it on noodles, broccoli, baked potatoes, or even as a dip for tortilla chips. Made from plant-based ingredients, it’s also dairy-free and gluten-free.

Sky Valley Sweet Chili Sauce

There’s nothing subtle about this sauce infused with red chili peppers, garlic, rice vinegar, and cane sugar. Drizzle some on burritos, rice, or any dish that could use a little kick.

Thrive Market Non-GMO Vegan Mayonnaise

Instead of eggs, our new vegan mayo is made with canola oil and avocado oil. Use it to thicken salad dressings or as a sandwich spread.

Delicious Vegan Fruits and Vegetables

No vegan shopping list is complete without plenty of vegetables. Here are some of the best options to fill your cart with.

Apples
Asparagus
Blackberries
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Butternut squash
Carrots
Cauliflower
Figs
Grapes
Peaches
Plums
Raspberries
Spinach
Strawberries
Sweet potatoes
Tomatoes
Zucchini

Best Vegan Protein Sources

Just because you’re not eating meat doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of protein-rich foods to enjoy. Beans are a popular choice, but don’t forget about ingredients like chia seeds, quinoa, tempeh, and lentils, just to name a few.

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts

With 10 grams of protein per serving, hemp hearts are the perfect addition to salads, rice dishes, and more—just sprinkle them on top of your plate. You can also blend them into pesto, smoothies, or dressings.

Artisana Organics Raw Vegan Cashew Butter

There’s nothing artificial about this creamy cashew butter made from 100 percent raw organic nuts (with 6 grams of protein per serving). Enjoy a scoop on its own or as a base for sauces, dips, and dressings.

Bob’s Red Mill Organic Farro

This hearty grain was popular in ancient Rome and makes modern dishes extra wholesome. Try it in stews, salads, pilafs, or casseroles.

Thrive Market Organic Dried Green Lentils

These little lentils pack a big protein punch, with 8 grams per serving. Make a satisfying Indian dal or a cozy soup, or toss them into a salad for added texture.

TruRoots Organic Red Quinoa

This quinoa is grown at 12,000 feet above sea level using traditional farming methods. It’s perfect for a range of dishes—like stuffed peppers, salads, and more. You can even add cooked quinoa to vegan pancake batter.

Thrive Market Organic Pinto Beans

Half a cup of pinto beans offers 7 grams of fiber, making them a great choice any night of the week (we’re partial to Taco Tuesday).

Top Vegan Meat Alternatives

Even when you’re not sinking your teeth into a juicy burger, there are plenty of ways to satisfy your taste buds—especially with these top vegan meat alternatives.

Upton’s Naturals Chili Lime Jackfruit Carnitas

Even carnivores will devour this satisfying meat alternative. The texture is similar to pulled pork, and perfect for tacos or burrito bowls.

Sophie’s Kitchen Black Pepper Vegan Toona

Enjoy a vegan taste of the sea with this plant-based, black pepper-seasoned “tuna.” This fish-free alternative is made with the Asian superfood Konjac root, pea protein, and spices that’ll turn your bagged lunch into something special.

Mori-Nu Extra Firm Silken Tofu

Made from non-GMO soybeans, tofu is a low-fat, plant-based protein with a custardy texture. It can replace non-vegan ingredients like eggs, dairy, and meat, and it’s ideal for adding richness to stir-fries.

Top 10 Vegan Recipes

Our blog is home to hundreds of vegan recipes, but here are the top 10 our members return to again and again.

Salted Caramel Power Muffins

These vegan and gluten-free muffins will power your day thanks to spinach and a subtly sweet salted caramel protein powder.

Jackfruit Hawaiian Bowl

Take a trip to Hawaii without leaving your kitchen! Just pile meaty jackfruit and tropical salsa over fragrant basmati rice.

Apricot Sesame Cauliflower Wings

Game day, meet your new favorite snack. Inspired by traditional chicken wings, this cauliflower version is extra flavorful thanks to ginger, apricot jam, and spicy sriracha.

Vegan Mushroom Bolognese

A bowl of shirataki noodles topped with a rosemary-infused cremini mushroom sauce—what’s not to love? This is one of our most popular pastas.

Vegan Shells and Cheese

Yes, vegans can still enjoy mac and cheese! This recipe tosses chickpea shells with a cashew-based cream sauce and chopped broccoli for the ultimate comfort food.

Nutty Sesame Carrot Noodles

For a light lunch, try carrot noodles tossed with cucumber and a dressing made of sesame oil, ginger, and nut butter.

Pumpkin Reishi Soup

If a big pot of soup is calling your name, fill it with a vibrant pumpkin purée seasoned with curry powder. Coconut milk makes it creamy without the cream.

Vegan Coffee Cake

Enjoy an afternoon treat with coffee added right to the batter. The crunchy topping is extra nutty thanks to pecans and almond flour, and, instead of eggs, the cake comes together with an egg replacement made with flax.

DIY Nutella

This three-ingredient recipe will take your love of hazelnuts to new heights. We like to eat it by the spoonful for your next vegan dessert, but you can also enjoy it on toast.

Maca Chocolate Bark

Make this chocolate bark to share or keep it all for yourself. While it’s still technically a treat, it packs in plenty of powerhouse ingredients to feel good about—like almonds, cranberries, maca powder, and goji berries.

The post Vegan Shopping List: Groceries, Products & More appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Meet 2 Veterans Growing New Careers In Organic Farming

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 09:00:39 +0000

During the month of April we’re teaming up with Rodale Institute to support its Veteran Farmer Training Program which helps honorably discharged veterans transition to civilian life and build careers in organic agriculture. Veterans receive hands-on training in a range of disciplines like livestock management, soil health, composting, and wastewater treatment on Rodale Institute’s 333-acre farm in Pennsylvania. Today we’re sharing the stories of two program alumni, Ariel and Billy, who are using their knowledge to make a difference in their communities

Meet Ariel

Ariel Jennings has been serving in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard for 10 years, and has spent the past five months training on Rodale Institute’s farm. “It’s given me a sense of peace and helped me deal with my anxiety,” she says. Jennings has found the experience gratifying and looks forward to using her skills to continue to serve. “Not only are you gaining knowledge, but you’re also working and sweating and doing something productive that you can see at the end of the day.”

Meet Billy

Billy Vaughn is a retired Marine Captain who served in the military for 21 years. After training with Rodale Institute, he’s embracing a new career path in organic farming. He and his wife recently purchased 66 acres of land in Arkansas and have created a nonprofit to help provide a safe space to heal for those recovering from PTSD and addiction. The organization will serve a nearby women’s maximum security prison. “The farm will provide work and therapy, and teach them skills to help them become self-sustaining,” Vaughn shares.

How to Apply for the Veteran Farmer Training Program

If you’re a military veteran interested in building a career in organic agriculture, you can apply for the program through Rodale Institute’s website. In addition to the application, you’ll also need to submit a copy of your discharge status and a resume.

How to Apply for Thrive Gives

Veterans, low-income families, students, and teachers are eligible to apply for Thrive Gives through our website. In addition to a free Thrive Market membership, you’ll also receive educational content and be eligible for additional discounts on healthy groceries.

—

When you donate at checkout during April 2019, 100 percent of the proceeds will go toward the Veteran Farmer Training Program.

The post Meet 2 Veterans Growing New Careers In Organic Farming appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

How Dr. Bronner’s Empowers Mint Farmers In India

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 11:00:01 +0000

Dr. Bronner's is a great example of a company that’s incorporated fair trade practices directly into its business model, helping to build a more ethical and sustainable supply chain by partnering with small-holder farmers and local workers on product development, training, and restoration projects. With a new mint initiative in India, we asked Dr. Bronner’s Regenerative Projects Manager Ryan Zinn to tell us more.

What about mint makes it a great candidate for regenerative agriculture? How did you decide to match this program with farms in India?

Our mint project partner, Pavitramenthe, is located in Uttar Pradesh, India, in the heart of one of the largest mint-producing regions in the world. Many parts of Uttar Pradesh have suffered from over 40 years of industrialized agricultural practices, leaving the soil and the farmers impoverished. By implementing new practices, we can demonstrate the power of regenerative organic agriculture—coupled with fair trade—to transform farms and communities, and hopefully inspire other farmers and companies to do the same.

By implementing new practices, we can demonstrate the power of regenerative organic agriculture—coupled with fair trade—to transform farms and communities, and hopefully inspire other farmers and companies to do the same.

Can you share more about having a centralized compost operation will benefit the local farmers?

Pavitramenthe has promoted the use of vermi- (worm) compost in farmers’ fields and gardens as a way to recycle food waste and return nutrients to the soil, but our ultimate goal is to deliver several tons of thermo-compost to farmers every year. Compost not only recycles nutrients, stabilizes soils, improves water-holding capacity and gives farmers a boost in fertility, it also returns carbon to the soil. It’s one of the most cost-effective and impactful regenerative tools in our tool box. A centralized compost operation allows us to generate large quantities of compost at relatively low cost, reaching more farmers. Thanks to the fair trade premium paid by Dr. Bronner’s, farmers buy the compost at a subsidized rate.

Can you explain the process of shifting from conventional methods to rotational crops, and how it’s beneficial?

The pathway to regenerative organic agriculture is a long one, but we also have the ability to make short-term impacts. For example, in addition to compost, we’ve identified two additional regenerative organic tactics that can have a positive ecological and economic impact in farming communities. Farmers in Uttar Pradesh generally manage three crop rotations per year. This generates more income for farmers, but there’s a risk of depleting soils. By promoting nitrogen-fixing legumes (like lentils), in farmers’ rotations, we can really improve soil quality. While Dr. Bronner’s doesn’t buy lentils, our task is to facilitate premium organic and fair trade buyers for farmers to incentivize the conversion to legume production. This is a win-win for farmers: stable, fair prices, and improved soil conditions.

Dr. Bronner's organic and fair trade mint oil, Pavitramenthe, India

Experimenting with these new systems, what are some of the obstacles Dr. Bronner's and the local communities have run into?

Working with hundreds of small-scale farmers, often with less than one acre of land, can pose real challenges. Many farmers, both in the U.S. and abroad, have come of age in an era of chemical agriculture and destructive farming practices. Unlearning these practices can take time. For farmers to be willing to adopt regenerative organic practices, we have to demonstrate that these systems can actually help their bottom line.

Since the program launched in 2015, what are some of the big wins you’ve seen in the field?

Since Pavitramenthe was launched in 2015, over 1500 farmers have been converted from conventional farming practices to organic and fair trade certified farms. In addition to achieving organic and fair trade certification, Pavitramenthe’s staff have worked hard to implement a number of regenerative organic practices, including enhanced crop rotations, vermicompost, intercropping, cover crops, compost application, and conservation tillage. These regenerative practices are starting to catch on, as neighboring farmers have observed the positive impacts and have started to incorporate them on their own farms.

These regenerative practices are starting to catch on, as neighboring farmers have observed the positive impacts and have started to incorporate them on their own farms.

A particularly big win is the set up of commercial-scale production of high quality compost, which is distributed at two-metric tons of compost per acre per year at a subsidized rate to the farmers. This compost application is a backstop to increase the very low organic matter content that was initially below 0.5% throughout the project.

How many farmers have implemented the new practices so far, and what’s the response been like?

In the Bareilly area of Uttar Pradesh, each farm is different and farmers choose which regenerative organic practices to implement based upon their local conditions. All 1,500 Pavitramenthe farmers are currently applying compost to their farms, which improves water holding capacity and soil fertility. Farmers are also producing and applying their own vermicompost at their fields and shifting tillage to conservation practices. As farmers plan their rotations for the coming year(s), they plan to incorporate additional regenerative organic practices, especially leguminous cover crops, which have enhanced each farms productivity and resiliency.

Are you starting to see results in soil quality with farmers having rotated in crops like lentils?

Improving degraded soil can take time. However, Pavitramenthe farmers have reported many positive impacts as a result of regenerative organic practices. Improving crop rotations ensures that some farmers are able to plant cover crops to improve soil structure and deliver natural nitrogen to the soil. Several farmers have reported not needing to irrigate as often, as the water holding capacity of their fields has improved significantly. An often overlooked element when farmers transition to organic are the financial benefits. For example, as farmers take full advantage of local regenerative resources like compost and natural pesticides, they eliminate the need to buy synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, improving their bottom line.

The post How Dr. Bronner’s Empowers Mint Farmers In India appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Instant Pot Yogurt Recipe

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 10:00:18 +0000

After tasting this yogurt, you might have a hard time going back to the store-bought version. Our recipe uses just four simple ingredients—all you really need is time, but the Instant Pot does most of the work so you can set it and forget it. Be sure to let the yogurt chill so it sets up, then top it with granola, swirl a dollop into soups, or use it to thicken smoothies.

Instant Pot Yogurt

Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Active Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 18 hours

Ingredients

2 (15-ounce) cans coconut milk, divided
2 tablespoons tapioca flour
1 tablespoon maple syrup
4 capsules New Chapter Probiotic All-Flora

Instructions

Whisk ½ cup coconut milk with the tapioca flour in a small bowl. Pour remaining coconut milk and maple syrup into the inner pot of an Instant Pot. Hit the sauté button and bring milk to a boil for 30 minutes, or until the temperature reads 180°F with an instant read thermometer. Turn off the Instant Pot and whisk in tapioca mixture until smooth. Let cool to exactly 100°F.

Once cooled, add the probiotic powder and stir well. Lock the lid and press the yogurt button. Set timer for 6 hours (and up to 10 for a tarter taste). The texture will be thin initially, but it’ll thicken as it cools. Store yogurt in airtight jars and refrigerate for several hours, until chilled.

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines

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Why I'm Vegan (and You Can Be, Too) with Nicole Vranjican

lily.comba@thrivemarket.com (Lily Comba) — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 18:18:31 +0000

It’s easy to see why Nicole Vranjican—known as NikkiVegan on YouTube and Instagram—has earned such a dedicated following. She greets everyone like a long-term friend, treats them like family, and warms every room with her positivity. As a co-host on The Vegan View as well as the author of “30 Vegan Breakfasts,” Vranjican has shown thousands of people how to follow a vegan lifestyle with comfort and ease.

Today, she’s sharing her personal journey with veganism, plus the gradual steps you can take to try it for yourself.

Take us through your vegan journey. When did you decide to become vegan, and why?

Almost four years ago now, I was living in New York. I was an intern-turned-freelance-writer at a newspaper and was living a very unhealthy lifestyle. I remember one day when I didn’t sleep at all because I took on so many projects to prove myself to my boss, and that crazy workload— coupled with being stressed and tired—led me to extremely poor food choices. I gained weight and my energy levels weren’t great, and that went on for a while.

But around the time that I decided I want to move back to LA, I started watching a lot of YouTube for entertainment and I found a few vegan channels where people looked so at ease in their bodies. There was no shame about eating a gigantic bowl of veggie pasta or having a second sandwich if they were hungry. They all seemed to have this understanding about plant-based nutrition and they trusted their hunger in a way I’d never seen before. Prior to seeing that type of positivity, I would restrict myself whenever I was trying to “be good” (or what I thought was healthy). Ultimately, I would feel horrible when I inevitably caved and binged on whatever was in front of me. It was an exhausting cycle, and I was really ready for a healthier lifestyle.

So, I started incorporating more plant-based meals into my diet. It usually started with breakfast, which is why I ended up writing “30 Vegan Breakfasts” down the line. I didn’t go vegan overnight; I just started eating vegan at breakfast time, and making small changes like swapping cow’s milk for almond milk. I also focused on abundance and—this is key—it wasn’t about eating less, it was about eating better. So, on top of the cereal I was I eating, I’d add a handful of raspberries. And next to the sandwich I was having for lunch, I’d add a salad. I focused on what I was adding to my plate, not on the animal products I was taking off, and that started to make me feel amazing. I lost the weight I’d put on in New York and I noticed a big difference in how I felt when I ate vegan versus non vegan, which motivated me to continue making healthy vegan choices.

The more I learned about veganism, especially the ethical and environmental side of it, the more this seemed like the ideal way to eat. Three and a half years later, I would say I’m vegan for the animals, for the planet, and for my health, but it really started with just wanting to feel better in my skin and learning to trust my hunger, instead of always fighting it. I really think switching to a plant-based diet is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, but I’m glad I did it slowly, and found how to make it work for me.

Has it been hard to maintain a vegan diet over the years?

No, because veganism isn’t a diet. It’s not something I “stick” to because I have incredible willpower. A switch gets flipped in your head once you really realize the connection between what’s on your plate and the effect that has on another living being, the planet, and on your health. If I’m craving a cheeseburger, I don’t deprive myself of that—I have a vegan cheese burger. If I want a cookie, I find a recipe, and I make a vegan cookie. It’s not about restriction or giving up your favorite foods; it’s about living and eating in a way that reflects what’s in your heart.

What are your favorite vegan tips for someone who is struggling to change the way they eat?

Know your why. Your “why” is your intention. That is the most important part. Why do you want to change the way you eat? Why is that important to you? Knowing that will help bolster your willpower when you start to feel tempted in the beginning. Also, so important—focus on what you’re adding to your plate. A whole-foods plant-based diet is about abundance, not deprivation.
If you’re someone who loves nachos and pizza now, it’s ridiculous to think you’ll be able to exclusively eat kale salads from here on out and be satisfied! Just replace the animal-based products you love with vegan options and add some healthy stuff to your plate, too. Have the vegan pizza and a salad. Add a handful of broccoli to your vegan mac and cheese, or put strawberry and banana slices on top of your morning bowl of oatmeal. More fruits and veggies will make you feel great, but so will being gentle with your transition. Meet yourself where you’re at—which requires being honest about your daily habits—and making small, deliberate changes that align with your “why.” It’s not a race. There’s no prize for being the most perfect vegan there ever was. If you’re trying to making lasting change, focus on your intention. And, as Oprah says, “Then focus on the next right step, and the next, and the next.” That will help you so much more than aiming for perfection right out of the gate.

How has Thrive Market helped make the vegan diet easy and accessible?

So many vegan options! And the vegan filter makes searching for what I need so easy. At the store, I have to read a lot of labels to make sure there’s no egg in the pasta I’m buying or cheese in the crackers I want to try. But on Thrive Market, I select the vegan filter and everything that’s not vegan disappears. It makes things so much easier, and again, it saves so much time!

What are your favorite recipes for snacking?

My vegan jackfruit nacho recipe is up there. I make the cheese sauce out of butternut squash and it’s just so good!

For hosting a group of people?

My veganized version of Giada De Laurentiis’ Parmesan Pomodoro pasta is great for guests because it looks like your typical pasta with tomato sauce, but it’s incredibly flavorful. Amazing depth of flavor, and slightly cheesy, too. Also so simple to make, but your guests don’t need to know that. I serve this with a big green salad and maybe garlic bread, too … because, why not?

And for a cozy night in?

I have a video on my channel called “Nikki’s Lentil Curry Recipe” and it’s one of my favorites. I make it in big batches and even though it’s very simple, it’s super flavorful and filling. The process of making it is kind of like making soup, so it’s a cozy process. I love the idea of a night in with a warm dinner simmering away in the kitchen after a long day.

What are your favorite products that you always order, and how do you use them?

OK, my NEW favorite is non-food related. I just got a vegan cream blush and I love it so much! It’s the W3LL PEOPLE Nudist Multi-Use Stick. I dab it directly onto my cheeks and the bridge of my nose and then blend it out with my fingers. It looks so natural on my skin!

For food favorites, organic spices like turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, paprika, and dried herbs … very into fennel seed right now. I also get a lot of snacks to bring to the set of The Vegan View on filming days (Sriracha Sunshine Hippeas are our favorite.) I also love the Thrive Market Sea Salt Plantain Chips, and vegan dark chocolate chips are my go-to whenever I’m baking cookies or making vegan chocolate chip pancakes.

What is your secret kitchen weapon, and how do you use it?

Tahini! It’s so versatile. I use it a lot in my hummus recipes, but I also love using tahini to make salad dressings. It can also be used to make my baked tempeh recipe, or stirred into a veggie stir-fry. So delicious.

The post Why I'm Vegan (and You Can Be, Too) with Nicole Vranjican appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Reusable Hydrating Face Mask

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 15:08:05 +0000

Make a date with this moisturizing sheet mask to infuse your skin with all sorts of hydrating ingredients like rosehip oil, witch hazel, and squalane, which delivers antioxidants. It’ll take some DIY action in the form of cutting out a muslin round to fit the shape of your face, but then you can sit back and relax for 20 minutes while the treatment does its work. Plus, the muslin mask is reusable, so you can make spa night a regular occurrence.

DIY Reusable Hydrating Face Mask

Yield: 1 mask
Active time: 15 minutes

What you need

Special equipment:
Mask template (available online)
1 (12-inch x 10-inch) piece unbleached cotton muslin

3 teaspoons glycerin
3 teaspoons rosewater
2 teaspoons witch hazel
4 drops rosehip oil
4 drops squalane oil

Instructions

Print and cut out a mask template; then trace it onto the muslin. Cut the mask around the perimeter, followed by openings for your eyes, mouth, and nose.

Add all remaining ingredients to a small jar and shake until combined. Remove lid and place the mask inside; soak until all of the liquid has been absorbed. Place the prepared mask over your clean face, lightly patting into place, and let it sit for 20 minutes. Remove mask and wipe any excess liquid from your face using a washcloth.

Wash the muslin with warm water and a small amount of hand soap; rinse well and hang to dry. If the fabric frays, just cut off any loose threads before using again.

The post Reusable Hydrating Face Mask appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

Meat Metrics: EPIC’s New Seal Promotes Regenerative Agriculture

nicole.gulotta-con@thrivemarket.com (Nicole Gulotta) — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 11:00:58 +0000

Between packed feedlots, rampant pesticide use, and soil erosion, there’s a lot to be concerned about when it comes to the future of farming—and feeding ourselves and the generations to follow. One promising way forward is regenerative agriculture, an approach that protects and intentionally enhances natural resources and farming communities. It's a holistic method of caring for the land and animals (which includes raising them on pasture) that helps combat climate change, water runoff, and soil degradation, and comes with other environmental benefits.

EPIC has been championing these practices since its launch in 2013, and recently, the company introduced a product with a first-of-its-kind seal, giving consumers even more power to see how their dollars can make a positive (and measurable) difference.

From Land to Market

The Land to Market Ecological Outcome Verification (EOV for short) is a unique seal that was first found on one of EPIC’s products—soon to be followed by those from an elite group of other brands—and is the world’s first verified regenerative sourcing solution for meat, dairy, wool, and leather. “The seal empowers consumers to vote with their purchasing power and indicates suppliers for that product are driving positive trends in land health,” says EPIC co-founder Taylor Collins.

“The seal empowers consumers to vote with their purchasing power and indicates suppliers for that product are driving positive trends in land health.”

The designation was created in partnership with the Savory Institute, a global nonprofit that’s on a mission to help regenerate the world’s grasslands through holistic practices. The Savory Institute’s assessment tools track a host of outcomes for food companies like biodiversity, ecosystem function, soil health, and more. With this knowledge more accessible, plus a packaging seal to look for, its easier for consumers to know that their purchasing dollars are supporting farmers and ranches that are helping transform the land for the better.

According to Collins, the Land to Market EOV protocol has been a huge step in educating consumers with the data and storytelling that highlights the important work EPIC’s suppliers are doing. “However, some people are still unaware of how powerful the sourcing and impact of their food choices really are, and we’re determined to change that,” he says.

Setting a New Standard for Land Health

It’s all about the data. The EOV seal is the first outcomes-based regenerative agriculture seal. Everything from soil organic matter (including carbon), wildlife populations, and plant biodiversity are tracked and recorded through a global network of regional hubs that rally around regenerative farmers. These hubs collect aggregated data, which is then passed along to consumers through programs like the EOV and other educational initiatives.

Since regenerative agriculture’s aim is to build healthy soil, increase biodiversity, and empower farming communities, it’s a promising solution to help reduce greenhouse gases by pulling carbon from the air and storing it in the soil. “Regenerative agriculture takes more than farmers who are committed to supporting the environment with better practices—it takes people who decide that they want to support a better food system,” Collins says. “Your choices matter, and you have the option to vote with your purchasing dollars to support the future of the planet.”

It Starts With One

EPIC’s Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Beef Bites were the first product in the world to carry the EOV seal for regenerative sourcing. The snack—seasoned grass-fed beef with red pepper flakes, garlic, cumin, oregano, and paprika—has a bold kick and healthy protein to fuel your adventures. “We feel honored to have the first product with the EOV seal, and grateful for our suppliers who have worked tirelessly to implement holistic management practices that are healing the land,” Collins says. With a focus on transparency, EPIC is eagerly planning to make more products available that have data backing up their positive outcomes for the planet. “This is just the beginning—keep an eye out for more EPIC products with the EOV seal!”

The post Meat Metrics: EPIC’s New Seal Promotes Regenerative Agriculture appeared first on Thrive Notebook.

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