The San Francisco Fancy Foods Show ended today with thousands of visitors tasting to their hearts content. An enormous convention of almost 3,000 food vendors representing over 80 countries, it is a candy-coated food lover's dream and easy to get lost among the cookies, confections, and homemade peanut brittle (My taste tester deemed it "epic!"). The problem, however, is that most of the items are highly processed food products with many ingredients to avoid completely.
Walking up and down the crowded isles, it was discouraging not to find many healthy food items for the 2010 consumer. Luckily there were a few diamonds in the rough...and local diamonds to boot. Here are the most delicious and healthy items from the SF Fancy Foods Show. It was certainly tough to do all the tasting, but someone had to do it!
Alter Eco, San Francisco - The best organic dark chocolate hands down! The Blackout bar was amazing and the Quinoa Chocolate bar was like a Nestlé’s Crunch bar...but 200 times better. Look for them at your local Whole Foods or purchase online.
Golden Star Tea Company, San Francisco - If you are looking for a seriously yummy alternative to wine, beer, or champagne, this is it. This non-alcohol sparkling Jasmine tea is not too sweet and has a lovely floral nose. Pick up a bottle at your local Whole Foods market.
Judy's Breadsticks, Marin County- These 100% vegan, whole wheat breadsticks are SO good and wonderful for you. Click to find stores that carry Judy's. If you are a bread lover, these are not to be missed!
Mary's Gone Crackers- Gluten-free, wheat-free, organic crackers that are wonderfully crispy and delicious on their own or with hummus or guacamole. Check them out online to locate a store near you.
TruRoots, San Ramon - This husband and wife team import sprouted quinoa, brown rice, lentils, and beans from organic farmers around the world. Why sprouted: Because it wakes up the beans/grains natural enzymes, which makes them easier to digest. Find their products online and be sure to try these delicious recipes.
Contact Jamie with questions or to share your health, wellness and foodie stories. Email: jamiegd@jamieliving.com Facebook: JAMIE LIVING Twitter: JAMIE LIVING