Food Trends: Healthy Habits

East Bay markets and eateries that make aiming for healthier choices simple

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Green eating at cozy Unity Park plant-based eatery

Founded in 2022, Basil & Bunny is a cozy eatery serving up tasty and nutritious plant-based foods from their inventive menu. “We offer so many healthy options, from flavorful grain bowls and salads to sandwiches full of plant-based proteins,” says owner Lyslie Medeiros, who originally developed the concept at Hope & Main in Warren. Menu highlights include the Bunny Bacon Ranch, with two house-made bean and mushroom patties, vegan cheese, bacon, grilled onions, lettuce, pickles, and ranch on a double-decker sesame seed bun. Another favorite is the Backyard BBQ Chicky, a brioche bun stuffed with crispy chicky seitan, barbecue sauce, onions, slaw, and mayo.

“Plant-based foods are a great way to go. They are low in saturated fats and high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. And yes, you still get lots of protein,” says Medeiros, who enjoys guiding customers on the road to healthier and greener eating. “I absolutely love showing people how delicious plant-based foods can be. At Basil & Bunny, we are happy to help you navigate toward a healthier you.” Bristol, BasilAndBunny.com

 

Wholesome ingredients from an East Bay mainstay

If shaking things up in the kitchen is your resolution this year, Clements’ Marketplace is a great place to start. “We’re always expanding our selection of healthy options that fit various dietary specifications. Whether it’s gluten-free, keto, paleo, or organic, we like to think we have something for everyone,” says Matthew Ponte, director of marketing and communications. He shares that customers have been raving about cold-pressed juices and kombuchas from Rhode Island brand Fully Rooted. “They have zero preservatives or additives and no added sugar. There has also been a movement toward probiotic-rich and fermented foods designed to improve digestive health.”

Clements’ sells produce from Vertigreens, a state-of-the-art hydroponic farm in Westport, MA, that provides an assortment of salad blends and other ultra-healthy produce options grown without pesticides or herbicides. “Fortunately, the days of healthy foods not being as delicious as their everyday counterparts are well behind us,” says Ponte. “There are so many specialty producers making absolutely delicious products that are also better for you.” Portsmouth & Bristol, ClementsMarket.com

 

Shop organic and whole foods at Portsmouth marketplace

For a great selection of organic produce, grass-fed meats, fair-trade coffees, vegetarian and vegan products, cheeses, bulk bins, and more, look no further than The Green Grocer. “We offer a wide array of products that we take time to vet, that match the values of a core part of our mission to encourage healthy living for all,” says Caleb Wood, perishables procurement specialist.

Wood encourages patrons to start small to achieve their healthy eating goals. “The average American diet is lacking in substantial fiber or protein, leaning very heavily on processed foods,” he explains, “so adding a few whole foods, like grains, fruits, and vegetables, might be an easy place to start. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.” The market also works to maintain fair pricing for customers through a partnership with the Independent Natural Foods Retailers Association, collaborating with other stores in the same field “to provide a robust selection of items to fit our customers’ budgets, no matter how big or small,” adds Wood. Portsmouth, TheGreenGrocerRI.com

 

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