EMERGING

Dashi Emerging in US

Dashi, the cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, is making significant inroads into the American culinary scene, much like the rise of craft breweries and artisanal distilleries in recent years. This flavorful broth, traditionally made from kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes, imparts a rich umami essence that elevates a variety of dishes.

In the vibrant neighborhoods of Williamsburg and Greenpoint in Brooklyn, the dashi movement is gaining momentum. Dashi Okume, a specialty shop, offers an array of dashi products, introducing locals to the depth and versatility of this traditional Japanese stock. Their offerings are akin to a curated wine selection, each with distinct flavor profiles suited to different culinary applications.

Similarly, Cabi Foods is making Japanese flavors accessible to home cooks across the U.S. Their Umami Dashi Soy Sauce combines the savory notes of dashi with the familiar taste of soy sauce, creating a condiment as versatile as a fine whiskey in a mixologist's arsenal. This sauce can enhance anything from simple rice dishes to elaborate marinades, much like how a quality spirit elevates a cocktail.

Cabi Foods

The emergence of dashi in the U.S. mirrors the craft beverage industry's growth, where consumers seek authenticity, quality, and unique flavor experiences. Platforms like Farm2Me are instrumental in this culinary shift, connecting consumers with artisanal food producers and providing access to high-quality, small-batch products. Their commitment to sustainability and local sourcing resonates with the same ethos that drives the craft beverage movement.

As dashi continues to permeate American kitchens, it for culinary exploration, much like the introduction of craft beers expanded the palate of beer enthusiasts. Chefs and home cooks alike are experimenting with dashi-based sauces and broths, creating fusion dishes that honor traditional Japanese techniques while embracing local ingredients.

In conclusion, the burgeoning dashi industry in the U.S. reflects a broader trend towards embracing global flavors with the same enthusiasm that has propelled the craft beverage industry. With purveyors like Dashi Okume and Cabi Foods leading the charge, and platforms like Farm2Me facilitating access, dashi is poised to become a staple in American cuisine, much like craft brews and artisanal spirits have found their place in the hearts of consumers.

For those interested in exploring dashi and its applications, here are some recommended products to get started:

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SNACKS

7 Kitchen Road Seed Crackers

In the burgeoning gluten-free seeded crackers market, 7 Kitchen Road stands out as a connoisseur's choice, much like a finely aged wine in the beverage industry. Founded by a seasoned food industry veteran with over 15 years of experience, their journey mirrors the evolution of a master baker. The founder's culinary passion, ignited during the early days of the Food Network, took a transformative turn upon becoming a parent. Dissatisfied with the processed oils and additives prevalent in so-called "healthy" snacks, they embarked on creating their own seeded flat crackers using simple, wholesome ingredients. The result is a product that appeals to both children's palates and sophisticated entertaining, akin to a sophisticated Italian dinner party that suits any occasion. As the gluten-free seeded cracker industry gains momentum in the U.S., 7 Kitchen Road's commitment to quality and flavor positions them as a distinguished player, much like a pumpkin seasonal in a sea of ciders or beers.

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NEW PRODUCTS

Newly Launched Farm2Me

• Atina Foods – Ayeurvedic Pickles , Hudson Valley, NY, United States

• Tiny Fish Co – Tinned Fish, Local Ingredients, Portland, OR, United States

• Central Coast Creamery – Handmade Cheese, Local Dairy, San Luis Obispo, CA, United States

• Three Sisters Charcuterie – Sustainable Pork Spanish Dry-Cured Chorizo, Richmond, CA, United States

GROCERS

1,000+ Tiny Grocers to find Dashi

Farm2Me Map of Independent Grocers is not just a map – it’s a vibrant, living community celebrating the hardworking shops and shopkeepers you pass by every day.

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ORGANIC

Biodynamic Certifications

Biodynamic Agriculture ™ is a revolutionary new certification for food, textiles, and personal care ingredients. Biodynamic Agriculture Soil: Builds Soil Organic Matter, Conservation Tillage, Cover Crops, Crop Rotations, No GMOs or Gene Editing, No Soilless Systems, No Synthetic Inputs, Promotes Biodiversity, and Rotational Grazing.  Biodynamic Agriculture Animal Welfare: Five Freedoms, Freedom from discomfort, Freedom from fear & distress, Freedom from hunger, Freedom from pain, injury or disease, Freedom to express normal behavior, Grass-Fed / Pasture-Raised, Limited Transport, No CAFOs, Suitable Shelter. Biodynamic Agriculture Social Fairness:  Capacity Building, Democratic Organizations, Fair Payments for Farmers, Freedom of Association, Good Working Conditions, Living Wages, Long Term Commitments, No Forced Labor, and Transparency and Accountability.

NON-ALCOHOLIC

600+ Non-Alcoholic Shops for Dashi

The Farm2Me Map of Non-Alc Grocers is more than just a guide—it’s a curated tapestry of passion and craftsmanship, celebrating the artisans and shopkeepers who bring life to your community.

Each pin on the map tells a story, much like the label on a fine vintage or the notes in a craft cocktail. Uncover the journeys of these dedicated purveyors, their favorite products, and the unique philosophies that fuel their shelves.

Whether you’re exploring a new neighborhood, traveling across the country or globe, or simply hunting for a hidden gem in your own backyard, this map is your passport to discovering exceptional flavors and timeless traditions

NEWS

Seaweed Gets $2.5M

Triodos’ investment into the Faroese seaweed farming industry - the group’s first investment into the sustainable aquaculture industry - raises the total capital raised by Ocean Rainforest to € 2.5 million. Other notable shareholders include Katapult Ocean, Twynam, and WWF.

Founded in 2007, Ocean Rainforest was ahead of the curve, seemingly anticipating the massive boom in global seaweed production that was to come in the following years. Driven by the idea that growing seaweed in the ocean would take up CO₂ and mitigate climate change, cultivation began in 2013 after years of research and trials. Today the company employs 25 people and expects to produce 400 tonnes of seaweed biomass by the end of 2024, making it the largest cultivated seaweed producer in Europe.

“Ocean Rainforest addresses three impact pillars: from an environmental perspective, cultivating seaweed at scale is associated with significant enhancement of marine biodiversity and water quality. Seaweed-based fertilisers and animal feed also contribute to the sustainable agriculture transition. From a consumer perspective, consumption of seaweed-based products improves the digestive system and brings anti-inflammatory and other benefits,” said Adam Kybird, fund manager at Triodos, in a press release.

“Finally, from a socio-economic perspective, the company creates positive impact for coastal communities, creating jobs and positioning the Faroe Islands at the forefront of sustainable seaweed cultivation,” he added.

Ocean Rainforest has also begun to expand its reach, cultivating giant kelp in Santa Barbara, California, as part of a research and development project. The company recently applied for permission to transition this to commercial cultivation.

“We see the investment by Triodos Food Transition Europe Fund as a confirmation of our business strategy and our purpose to improve people’s wellbeing and make a unique contribution to our blue planet. With the funding provided by Triodos we will be able to further scale our production and capitalise on the huge potential of this global growth market while contributing even more to our sustainability goals,” said Olavur Gregersen, Ocean Rainforest co-founder and chief executive.

LOCAL FARMS

Farmers Markets to find Dashi

The Farm2Me Guide to Farmers Markets is more than a map—it's a dynamic tool for discovering the heart and soul of local food communities. With the ability to search by day, location, and open markets, it connects you to the hardworking farms and makers celebrated across the country, every single day.

Explore the rich stories behind each farm, uncover their passions, and learn what drives their craft. Whether you’re exploring a new neighborhood, traveling across the country or the globe, or simply seeking something unique close to home, the Farm2Me map is your ultimate companion for finding fresh, local treasures.

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COFFEE ROASTERS

Coffee Roasters Near Me

The Farm2Me Map of Coffee Roasters is more than just a map—it’s a dynamic celebration of the dedicated cafes and roasters you encounter every day.

Dive into the rich stories behind each coffee roaster, uncovering their unique journeys, favorite products, and the passion driving their craft.

Use this map as your guide, whether you’re exploring a new neighborhood, traveling across the country or globe, or simply seeking a hidden gem close to home.

Pro Tip #1

Visit a local Grocer or Coffee Shop, or explore a local Farmers Market. Shop direct from your favorite emerging brands!

CHOCOLATE

Fine & Raw Chocolate

Fine & Raw Chocolate was established in 2007 in a notorious Williamsburg, Brooklyn artist loft by Daniel Sklaar. Daniel launched into making small Fine & Raw Chocolate batches and sharing them with friends, Fine & Raw Chocolate wholesale then started delivering them on his bicycle to local purveyors of fine food. It was apparent that the chocolate flavor was so good it was borderline addictive. Fine & Raw Chocolate wholesale grew based on the premise of producing organic, unparalleled quality chocolate and a shear love of the chocolate making process.

The “raw” in Fine & Raw is something of a misnomer. Sklaar and Fine & Raw Chocolate company do roast some of their organic cacao beans under lower temperatures and for longer durations than common in standard high-heat processing. Says Sklaar, “Raw chocolate is an amazing source of antioxidants. We’re basically looking to maintain those while playing with the unique flavor profiles of raw chocolate.” Fine & Raw offers chocolates using both “raw” and combinations of “raw” and conventionally roasted beans.

Fine & Raw Chocolate wholesale manufactures the finest chocolate in the world. Fine & Raw Chocolate wholesale specialize in bean-to-bar, organic chocolate bars and truffles, spreads and well, anything our imaginations can think of it. Fine & Raw Chocolate start by sourcing the worlds finest cacao beans and specialize in clean ingredients lists. Their products are always organic, plant-based and next level.

Fine & Raw Chocolate's first point of sustainability is a radically-transparent cacao supply chain which is focused on quality and direct relationships with cacao farmer! Fine & Raw's cacao is sourced from the highest quality and most ethical suppliers in Ghana and Ecuador. "We ensure that our farmers are paid above fair trade wages, because we believe farmers should have the economic freedom and empowerment to farm organically and develop sustainable land management practices. It is currently estimated that less than 0.5% of cacao beans are organic. By cultivating long-lasting and ethical relationships with suppliers and farmers, we hope to continue providing economic support for the organic cacao industry."

Made in Brooklyn, NY

Founded by Daniel Sklaar in 2007

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