Why Michigan Agriculture is Important to Us All

Here on my blog, I love to share about gluten free products, especially from Michigan. I would be remiss if I failed to share the extensive agricultural products available in the Great Lakes State. Michigan produce provides over $125.8 BILLION dollars to our state’s economy. 

In addition, those with Celiac Disease often focus on what we can’t eat. However, fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten free. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables provide vitamins and minerals that we may be deficient in, due to malabsorption. What better way to support #MichiganMade than to support Michigan farmers!

1) Tart Cherries – #1 in the world

Michigan grows more Montmorency tart cherries than any other place in the world. (Which is why Traverse City is called the Cherry Capital!) Montmorency cherries contain high levels of healthy antioxidants, and may improve your quality of sleep. Enjoy a handful of Relative Foods certified gluten free tart cherries (affiliate link) in your homemade trail mix. Or in my Gluten Free Cherry Chocolate Chunk Cookies!

2) Asparagus- #1 in the United States

Michigan produces more asparagus than any other states in the nation. Crops start offering their bounty as early as April. In addition, asparagus contains flavonoids which may lower blood pressure. Enjoy them roasted, in quiche, and in this easy Roasted Asparagus Salad with Balsamic Dressing recipe from Fit Mitten Kitchen. 

3) Dry Black Beans- #1 in the United States

Michigan grows more black beans than any other state in the country. While many people with Celiac Disease fail to consume enough fiber, 1 cup of black beans offers 60% of your daily recommended fiber intake. Support local and use Michigan black beans in my Grain Free Beef and Black Bean Enchilada Cups, or my recipe for Black Bean Enchiladas

4) Winter Squash- #1 in the United States

Michigan also grows more winter squash than any other state in the country. This includes hubbard, acorn and butternut squash. Health tip- Butternut squash contains high levels of vitamin A, which is important for eye health. For a delicious gluten free meal, try my Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna recipe.

5) Celery- #2 in the United States

Michigan ranks second in the nation for this green, crunchy vegetable that offers 25 anti inflammatory compounds. While it’s perfect for eating on its own, it’s also great in this recipe for Gluten Free Cream of Celery Soup from Mommy Hates Cooking. Another great option is to pair celery with my easy homemade hummus recipe.

6) Apples – #3 in the United States

There’s nothing better than visiting a Michigan orchard and enjoying cider and gluten free donuts. Michigan ranks 3rd in the nation for apple production. Which is a major reason we have so many gluten free hard cider businesses here! Enjoy Michigan apples in my Applesauce Cake, my Oat Free Apple Crisp for Two, or my Grain Free Apple Cheesecake Bites.

7) Blueberries- #4 in the United States

I love blueberries. Chances are if you live outside of Michigan, you may be eating berries grown in the Mitten State. Michigan ranks third in the nation among producers of blueberries. Compared to other fruits, blueberries contain lower amounts of natural sugar. Enjoy them in my blueberry hand pies, or my delicious Blueberry French Toast Casserole. 

8) Pumpkins – #5 in the United States

Fall in Michigan isn’t complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch. Michigan ranks third in the nation for the production of this orange gourd. Enjoy it in pumpkin pie, pumpkin donuts and pumpkin cake rolls. Michigan also ranks third in the production of Christmas trees, so we appear to have all the holidays covered! 

9) Milk & Dairy Products – #6 in the United States

In 2020 alone, Michigan cows produced more than 11 million pounds of milk! The Mitten State is home to more than 1,500 dairy farms, and ranks 6th in the nation for milk production. While a glass of milk is great on cereal, or with a gluten free cookie, milk is also important in my favorite dairy product- Ice Cream! Check out my list of “must visit” Michigan Ice Cream parlors that offer great gluten free options. 

10) Potatoes – #7 in the Nation (Eggs #10 in the Nation)

Did you know that Michigan egg farmers supply eggs to all McDonald’s restaurants east of the Mississippi River? It’s true! In addition, Michigan ranks 7th in the nation for potato production and potato crops. Use both to make my delicious mashed potato crust quiche! Looking for something smaller? Try my Gluten Free Breakfast Casserole for Two.

How to Support Michigan Farmers & the Economy

Ready to purchase some Michigan Produce? Support local farms by shopping at one of the many Michigan Farmer Markets. Prefer to pluck your own producce? Visit this U Pick Guide from Veg Michigan. Want to find more ways to support Michigan agriculture and the farmers that grow your food? Visit the Discover Michigan Farm Fun website.

Looking for recipes from other Michigan bloggers? While not all recipes are gluten free, I follow Crowded Kitchen, The Lemon Bowl, This Worthey Life, Fit Mitten Kitchen, Feel Good Foodie and Persnickey Plates. Supporting Michigan bloggers by reading and sharing our content, and commenting on our posts, allows us to put more money back into the Michigan economy. 

This post is NOT  sponsored by Michigan Agriculture, or any other entity. I’m proud to live in Michigan, and love sharing what makes it great. What’s your favorite way to use Michigan produce? Tell me in the comments below!

Originally Published March 2022

The post Michigan Produce in Gluten Free Recipes appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Ethel’s Baking Company 

This decadent gluten free dessert bar company is a favorite among many. Their flagship product is their Pecan Dandy. However, their product list now includes blondies, Cherry pie bars, lemon bars and more. Ethel’s products are certified gluten free and made in a dedicated gluten free faciltiy. They ship nationwide.

Website | Product Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Second Nature Snacks 

Not familiar with Second Nature snacks? Us Michiganders may know them better by their parent company name, Kars Nuts. I’m a huge fan of their Wholesome Medley mix. Their nut blends are prepared in a gluten free facility and are certified gluten free. Second Nature ships nationwide. 

Website | Where to Buy |Amazon | Vitacost | Facebook | Instagram

Jessica’s Natural Foods 

I’ve seen my friends far and wide share their love for Jessica’s Natural Foods granola. Jessica’s Natural Foods also makes gluten free (and rice free!) flour and mixes. I used her chocolate cake mix to make my Gluten Free SunButter Glazed Donuts. Jessica’s Natural products are certified gluten free, and ship nationwide. (Her granola, flour and mixes contain oats.)

Website | Store Locator | Amazon | Vitacost | Facebook | Instagram

Carlo’s Grain Free Granola 

Like many people with Celiac Disease, my body does not tolerate oats. This is why I Love Carlo’s Grain Free Granola. The Chocolate Cherry is especially delicious! Their mixes are prepared in a dedicated gluten free facility and contain no gluten, grains, peanuts, dairy, corn, soy, or preservatives! Carlo’s ships nationwide, and you get free shipping when you order 6 or more bags. 

Website | Retail Locations | Facebook | Instagram

The GFB 

I’ve known the Rader brothers, the creators of The Gluten Free Bar, for MANY years. Their bars and bites are delicious, and found in stores like Meijer and Whole Foods. They also sell gluten free oatmeal made from purity protocol oats. This Michigan gluten free brand ships nationwide. 

Website | Store Locator | Amazon | Vitacost | Facebook | Instagram

Fusion Epicure 

I met the owners of Fusion Epicure at the beginning of 2022, and had the great opportunity to tour their dedicated gluten free facility. Their stuffed and chocolate dipped dates are AMAZING. They ship nationwide, and are available at select small grocery stores. 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

Brazilian Oven 

Love Brazi Bites? They I recommend supporting this Michigan made gluten free business. Made in Kalamazoo, these Pão de Queijo are cheesy and delicious. Made from tapioca, which her father used to grow and harvest, this is truly a family owned business. She does not ship her products, but I’ve provided a link below so you can find them in Michigan stores near you!

Website | Where to Buy | Facebook | Instagram

Old World Gluten Free Pierogi 

I wasn’t introduced to pierogi until I was in high school. My oh my, was I missing out. Old World Gluten Free, based in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, began producing their gluten free pierogi when their son was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Available in 6 different flavors, you can find them in Michigan and Illinois Whole Foods stores, and more. They ship through Polana, and I’ve provided the link below. 

Website | Where to Buy | Polana (shipping) | Facebook 

Relative Foods 

This new Michigan gluten free business sells a gluten free flour blend, oat flour (made from purity protocol oats), salt, sugar and more. I’m especially fond of their dried cherries. Based in Spring Lake, MI, their products are available on Amazon. 

Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram

Mindo Chocolate 

Did you know that you can do a tour of the Mindo Chocolate making facility? My husband and I went to one a few years ago, and it was so interesting. I love that they source their chocolate, ethically, directly from the farmers. They sell a variety of products, including chocolate bars, cocoa, chocolate chunks for baking, and more. They ship nationwide.

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Harvest Craft Chocolate 

I only recently (2022) learned about Harvest Craft Chocolate. Like Mindo, they source their chocolate directly from independent farmers, in an attempt to make ethically sourced chocolate, without child labor. All of their chocolate is dairy free and gluten free, although some bars are made with oat milk. They are located in Tecumseh, MI and ship nationwide. 

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Graceland Fruit

I first learned about Graceland Fruit when I attended the grand opening of Third Coast Bakery many years ago. This company makes all their dried fruit in a dedicated gluten free facility. They don’t ship to consumers at this time, and don’t seem to have a store locator. I know I’ve purchased their products at Meijer in the past. They mostly supply dried fruit to bigger brands, like Bob’s Red Mill and other bakers. 

Website | Facebook | Instagram

LorAnn Oils 

My family has been using LorAnn Oils flavorings for decades. It’s what my grandma used to make her hard candy, every year. Since then, they’ve expanded, both physically, and in what products they offer. While many stores carry their products, unfortunately LorAnn Oils doesn’t have a store locator feature on their website. They do ship nationwide and internationally. All their flavorings, extracts and emulsions are gluten free. 

Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram

Full Flavor Foods 

Full Flavor Foods makes and sells 7 different mixes- 4 gravy mixes and 3 cream sauce mixes. Gravy mixes include beef, turkey, chicken and post. Cream sauce mixes include Cream Sauce, Cream of Mushroom, and Alfredo. All are certified gluten free, and contain no nuts, or eggs, or trans fats. My husband will gladly tell you he loves when I cook with these, because it’s so delicious. They ship nationwide, and are available at Foods for Living, Rumi’s Passion and No More Belly Aching in Michigan, and at Hy-Vee stores in the midwest. 

Website | Vitacost | Facebook | Instagram

** Disclosure – I am the social media manager for Full Flavor Foods. 

Milford Spice Co.

I became familiar with Milford Spice Co. when I used to organize the Lansing Gluten Free Fair. All of their spice blends are all natural, free from preservatives, MSG and gluten. They do not use any fillers or anti-caking agents, and they are non-irradiated. 

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Kind Crumbs 

Kind Crumbs is one of the many gluten free bakers in Michigan. Unlike most on my list, Kind Crumbs is mostly wholesale, and sells directly to stores. They do ship a handful of items, but only within the state of Michigan. You can find Kind Crumbs products in D&W Stores, independent stores like Foods for Living and Bridge Street Market, as well as coffee shops and restaurants. 

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Other bakers that ship include Third Coast Bakery, Bliss Bakery, and Gluten Free Specialties.

Oh MI Organics 

Oh MI Organics, located in St. Johns Michigan, sells handmade chocolates in a huge assortment of flavors. All of their products are free from gluten, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts (except coconut), sesame, fish, eggs, and soy. While they do not ship, many store across the state of Michigan sell their products. 

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

Downey’s Potato Chips 

While Better Made and Great Lakes Potato Chips are gluten free, I recently met the owners of Downey’s Potato Chips and loved their product. These crisp kettle cooked chips are made in a dedicated gluten free facility, and undergo testing to verify they contain under 20 ppm. While not currently available for shipping, you can find them at various stores in Michigan. 

Website | Store Locator | Facebook | Instagram

What other Michigan gluten free brands should I (and everyone else) know about? Share about them with me in the comments below!

The post Michigan Gluten Free Brands appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Family Starts Businesss Based on Middle Eastern Snack

Fusion Epicure began with Bassman Paulus’ homemade sesame seed snacks. For years, he made them at home for himself and friends. When friends suggested that he sell them, at first he was hesitant. He didn’t come from a food manufacturing background. But their encouragement led him to take a bold step and try.

While these sesame squares are common in the Middle East, Bassman wanted to make them with less sugar.  A traditional bar was 70% sugar, 30% seeds. With some trial and error, he created a delicious bar that was 20% sugar, and 80% seeds. In addition, no high fructose corn syrup.

These sesame snacks are made with pure Michigan Honey. Plus, these SESAME² bars contain non-gmo and mostly organic ingredients. They use simple, easily recognizable ingredients that you might find in your own pantry. Also, no artificial flavors or preservatives. 

Why Sesame Seeds?

While I’ve seen plenty of granola and snack bars made with oats and nuts, I’ve never seen a product made mostly of sesame seeds. Bassman explained that sesame seeds offer many many health benefits. These health benefits include anti-inflammatory properties, while also helping to reduce blood sugar and blood pressure. Sesame seeds also contain healthy fats that are good for cholesterol.

To make their delicious SESAME² bars, Bassman sources various sesame seeds, creating a unique blend that you won’t find anywhere else. SESAME² bars come in various flavors – Cranberry Walnut, Blueberry Pecan, Coffee Walnut and Sesame Walnut. The Cranberry Walnut and Coffee Walnut squares are also available covered in chocolate! 

Their Chocolate Stuffed Dates Will Blow Your Mind

In addition to allowing me to see their factory and how they operate, Bassman allowed me to sample a few of their products. When I tried this Tahini & Coffee Milk Chocolate stuffed date, I was beyond amazed. The filling was creamy, and utterly delicious. While they currently contain added sugar, in the future they plan to leave it out.

Bassman and his wife believe in supporting local businesses as much as they can. However, since we don’t grow dates in Michigan, they source their dates directly from farmers in the United States. Their chocolate is imported from Europe, and is ethically grown and harvested. Bonus- The dark chocolate covered dates are dairy free! 

Amazing Coffee Chocolate Bark

I don’t drink coffee. However, I’ll eat Fusion Epicure’s Chocolate Coffee Bark every day if you let me. The chocolate is smooth, and the coffee flavor is deep while not being overpowering. Don’t do coffee? They also make a sesame seed chocolate bark. Each batch is handmade and hand packed. 

Unique Almond Products

If you eat gluten free, all too often we wrestle with “may contain” or “made in a shared facility” statements. Especially as it relates to nuts. Lucky for us that Fusion Epicure sells their own flavored almonds, made in their gluten free facility. Flavors include Turmeric, Buffalo, and Tamarind. In addition, they also make their own almond butter.

Are Fusion Epicure Products Gluten Free?

Yes. No gluten is present in their facility, and they are in the process of seeking gluten free certification. (as well as Kosher certification) In fact, an outside company wanted to rent his space to make their product, and Bassman declined because their product contained gluten.

Does Fusion Epicure Offer Dairy Free Items?

Yes! Their dark chocolate contains no dairy. In fact, Bassman purchased a separate dark chocolate tempering machine to keep the dark chocolate free from dairy. In addition, their sesame squares contain no dairy. 

Where Can I Buy Fusion Epicure Products? 

Their products are available at various Michigan grocery stores, including Zerbo’s and Capital City Market. You can also order products directly from their website. Looking for something unique? Fusion Epicure creates special order items for wedding favors and other celebrations. They also offer bonbons and other chocolates for holidays. 

Where is Fusion Epicure Located?

Their factory, which is not currently open to the public, is located in Wixom, just off I-96. (Across 96, you’ll find the town of Novi.) As Fusion Epicture continues to grow, Bassman hopes to move to a new facility, complete with tasting room for their chocolates, and other items.  

Fusion Epicure
28243 Beck Rd Suite B15, Wixom, MI 48393
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Fusion Epicure gifted me certain products to enjoy at home. I was not otherwise paid or compensated. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Other Michigan Based Chocolate Companies

• Mindo Chocolate in Ann Arbor
• Oh MI Organics in St. Johns
• NOVA Supernatural Bakery in Muskegon

The post Fusion Epicure- Sesame Snacks & More appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

The Golden Ticket to Amazing, Ethical Chocolate

My husband loves Willy Wonka. We own the director’s edition of the one with Johnny Depp in it. Oompa Loompa dance tutorials and all. So when I asked him if he wanted to join me for a tour at Mindo Chocolate, it was an easy “YES.”

So we drove just outside of Ann Arbor, to Dexter, MI. This small town is home to Mindo Chocolate, a bean-to-bar chocolate producer doing some pretty amazing things. We arrived at their production facility (a.k.a the owner’s house) for a day of chocolate tasting and education. Trust me, the more I learned, the more I love them!

From Farm to Kitchen

Alex McCoy, Mindo’s marketing specialist, greeted us at the door when we came in. She told us about how Mindo Chocolate started in Ecuador with an internet cafe and a batch of brownies. (Read more about the back story in this NPR “Hidden In Plain Sight” article.) By the way, it’s pronounced “Mean-Dough.”

She explained how Mindo trades directly with farmers in Ecuador. This means they see the fields for themselves and invest in the farmers. They grow cocoa pods under shade, which helps protect the soil and the ecosystem. Important, as the trees provide habitats to birds, of which Mindo has more species than any other place on the planet.

From Bean to Bar

Cocoa pods produce 80 to 100 beans, each. Mindo Chocolate uses Nacional pods, the oldest of cocoa varieties. In fact, in the 19th century, producers desired it more than any other variety. After spending a day tasting Mindo Chocolate, I can see why!   After workers harvest the pods, the chocolate ferments for 5-7 days. Mindo Chocolate harvests the liquid during that fermentation process, which they sell as Miel de Cacao. Think balsalmic cream, but made from chocolate.

Then, they roast the beans at 200 Fahrenheit. Next, the beans are crushed to extract the cocoa nibs. Finally, they stone grind the cocoa nibs for 24-36 hours. A longer grind allows the chocolate to aerate, reducing bitter flavors. I could definitely taste the difference. I tried their 100% chocolate bar, and was surprised at its smoothness.

The Long Way

Every step in the chocolate making process is intentional. Staff temper chocolate on marble slabs and reheat the chocolate to prevent blooming of the cocoa butter.  They make every piece of chocolate from hand. They even wrap them by hand! The envelopes surrounding the chocolate bars adr made from recycled sugar cane pulp. Local brewers use the discarded cocoa bean shells to brew beer and tea.

Mindo supports other Michigan brands as well. They use Calder Dairy in their creations. Chocolate bars are studded with Michigan blueberries and cherries. The eggs in their legendary brownies? Grown by their own family. Best yet for us? The entire kitchen remains free from wheat, rye, barley and peanuts. (Their white chocolate is soy free as well.)

Mindo Chocolate Bars and More

Mindo offers three lines of bars. Their Chocolate of Origin bars are made right in Ecuador, providing further economic growth for farmers. The Signature Line includes bars made with cherries, blueberries and more. Finally, the Rustic line, made from courser ground chocolate, features flavors such as Hot Pepper & Cinnamon.

Mindo makes other products as well. They produce an excellent cocoa powder, with a higher percentage of cocoa butter than other companies.  Mindo makes seasonal items, like the chocolate bunny I shared about in my Gluten Free Easter Candy post. They also making “Tasting Tiles,” small pieces of chocolate, which are great paired with mead from Blom Meadworks.

Bringing it All Home

I wish my pocket book allowed me to bring one of everything home. However,  I restrained my self to three bars, and the cocoa powder. I used the Mindo cocoa powder to try to recreate their infamous El Quetzal Brownies. It needs some work, but the cocoa powder was definitely the right purchase. (The original recipe uses melted chocolate, not cocoa powder.)

Buy some Mindo Chocolate for yourself at retailers like Plum Market, Argus Farm Stop, Tasty Bakery, Zingerman’s Roadhouse, Eastern Market, and more retail partners across Michigan. Alex mentioned not all stores may carry all of their products. Therefore, I recommend shopping via the Mindo website it you want something specific.

Ethically Sourced Chocolate

Mindo is one of many chocolate makers in the world placing a focus on ethically sourced chocolate. This includes paying farmers a fare wage, and reducing the reliance on child slave labor for cocoa harvesting. This also includes Michigan’s Grocer’s Daughter chocoalte in Empire, MI. Find out more at the Slave Free Chocolate website.

Ann Arbor Road Trip

With Mindo Chocolate’s new storefront in dowtown Ann Arbor, their store is the perfect addition to an Ann Arbor road trip. Nearby I recommend Tasty Bakery (100% gluten free), Blom Meadworks (gluten free mead), and a stop at Literati Bookstore. (Love comics? Vault of Midnight is a MUST!) Grab lunch or dinner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse, and find some unique gluten free groceries at Plum Market and Argus Farm Stop. 

Mindo Locations and Contact Information

Mindo Chocolate Production Facility
11061 Trinkle Rd
Dexter, MI 48130

Mindo Chocolate Ann Arbor Store Front
206 N 4th Ave
Ann Arbor MI 48104
Monday thru Sat from 7 am – 7 pm, Sunday 9 am – 5 pm

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

**While I was not charged for the tour, I was not otherwise paid or compensated for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am DEFINITELY of the opinion you should try Mindo Chocolate!**

Originally Published April 2019

The post Mindo Chocolate – Michigan’s Chocolate Maker appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What’s Special About Oh MI Organics Chocolate?

Oh Mi Organics, owned by Megan and Brent Hurst, meets a very important need in this world. Chocolate. Not just any chocolate, but chocolate that is free of gluten and many common allergens.

It’s exciting to see a small Michigan business tackle an issue that’s usually only contemplated at major companies. They’re just one more company that makes me proud to be a Michigander.

Where Is Oh MI Organics?

A visit to their store in St. Johns is like a step back in time. They don’t have a business phone and they don’t offer Wi-Fi. Instead, the Hurst’s have board games and a nice quiet atmosphere to enjoy them in. This has attracted many kids from the community. In an age of prolific technology, teenagers actually set their phones aside, enjoy a conversation and play a game!  

Oh Mi Organics even offers sidewalk chalk and coloring pages for those that want to get creative. This chocolate shop has quickly become a local place to create memories with one another. Learn more about this magical place in Megen Hurst’s own words.

Does Oh MI Organics Take Credit Cards?

When Oh MI Organics first opened, they were a cash only business. However, they started accepting online orders and digital pay during the pandemic. Our customers really enjoyed having the option of paying with a card, so we continued with the digital register.

​What​ inspired you to become a gluten-free ​chocolatier​?​

I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when I was 31. I eliminated many foods to help limit the inflammation in my body. Foods on the no-no list now included gluten, dairy and preservatives.

The thing I missed the most was chocolate, because it was tough to find them without those ingredients. Therefore, my husband and I came up with a gluten-free chocolate recipe that was safe for me (and so many more) to eat! You can read more about the birth of Oh Mi Organics on our about page.

Are Your Chocolates Free From Other Allergens?

As of 2019, all of our products are free from the top 9 allergens. Our products are free of artificial colors and flavors as well. Our chocolates are made from Fair Trade certified cocoa. As our name suggests, we use organic ingredients.

All of our products are dairy-free, and we never use cow’s milk. We do use a dairy free coconut based caramel made by Bloom Caramel in Portland, Oregon.

What steps do you take to guarantee that your products are gluten-free?

We do a lot of research! We have thoroughly researched and/or contacted our ingredient supplies  to verify that they are 100% gluten-free. We’re very transparent, and you can watch us hand-make and package our sweet treats in our Chocolate Studio Observation Window.

What Local Michigan Ingredients do you Use?

We source our maple syrup and pure mint oil from Livingston Farms of St. Johns. We obtain our raw honey from Gearig Apiaries in Ithaca. Our Bean Bean chocolate has two roasted coffee beans on top from Blue Owl Coffee in Lansing, MI.

How Do You Create All Of Those Amazing Chocolate Flavors?

Our unique flavorings come from a business in Baltimore, MD. All of their flavorings are gluten and dairy-free, all without propylene glycol.

How Flavors of Gluten Free Chocolates Do You Make?

To-date we have now made over 250 flavors of chocolate. We rotate our flavors, and keep 50 in stock in our display case at all times.

Our most popular flavors are Neapolitan (the flavor changing chocolate), English Toffee, Super Swirl Ice Cream, Coconut Macaroon, Mint, Raspberry, all of the caramel filled chocolates (dairy free caramel of course), and our customers with nut allergies really enjoy the “PB” filled chocolates (made with sunflower seed butter)

Can You Share About Your New Line of Gluten Free Baked Goods?

All of our baked goods are also vegan-friendly, because we use flaxseed instead of egg. We make a variety of cookies – Snickerdoodle, Sugar, Chocolate Surprise, “PB” (made with sunflower seed butter), and Oatmeal Cranberry.

Some of our products do contain oats. Our Jammy Bars contain rolled oats, from a dedicated gluten free facility. Our oat flour comes from a company that is very allergy friendly and also batch tests for gluten and other allergens.

Our Cookie Pies are very popular as well. Two soft baked cookies with handmade dairy free buttercream frosting sandwiched in between. Flavor varieties are:

• Chocolate Vanilla
• Cinnamon Roll
• Blackberry
• Raspberry
• Toffee Crunch
• Banana Cream
• Lemon Cream
• Mint Chocolate
• Maple
• Red Velvet Cake
• Coconut Cream
• Lemon Lavender
• Fudgie
• and “PB” Chocolate.

We also make caramel filled brownies, and delicious Jammy Bars (an oatmeal bar with natural fruit preserves).

What Customer Feedback Has Brought You Joy?

We have met many people at our storefront that have food allergies, mainly dairy and gluten. When they look over our glass case of over 50 flavors to choose from, it’s a joy to see the smiles on their faces when they realize that they can once again enjoy an array of chocolate flavors.

Many people have told us that we have “ruined store chocolate for them.” One customer stated that she had a bite of a known brand name of chocolate, threw it out her car window, and drove straight to our store to get a Sea Salt Caramel because she liked ours better.

Can You Share More About Your Lunch Options?

We offer a variety of grab-n-go lunch options like vegan mac-n-cheese made with brown rice pasta, Basmati Rice Bowls such as Shawarma, Sweet & Sour, and Taco. All also vegan friendly, as we used seasoned roasted cauliflower in place of meat.

In the summer, we offer Asian Chopped Salads, Taco Salads, and we make side salads like Broccoli Salad, Sweet Potato Salad, and Italian Pasta Salad. All made with vegan dressings as well.

In the fall and winter we offer a wide variety of soups like Split Pea, White Bean Veggie, Tom Kha, Cheesy Veggie with Rice, Mexican Quinoa Stew, Taco Soup, Red Lentil Curry, and Butternut Squash Bisque. All are vegan friendly as well. We also make gluten free cheesy garlic biscuits to go with the soups.

What Else Would You Like My Followers to Know?

We create our products with food allergies or diet restrictions in mind. In addition to our chocolates, we have many raw, paleo and keto diet options. These include our no-bake energy bites, which are made with sunflower seed spread, gluten-free oats and ground flaxseed. We lightly sweeten them with pure Michigan maple syrup.

Our newest product, “You Dip It”, is an organic, vegan-friendly all-purpose dip that goes great with fruit slices, pretzels, cinnamon pita chips, graham crackers, and more!

We also created the Fall FEASTival, held in downtown St. Johns every year in September. This outdoor festival features only Michigan-Made food.

Oh MI Organics Location, Hours and Contact Information

Oh Mi Organics
109 W Higham St
St. Johns MI 48879
Open Mon- Fri 8 am – 6 pm, Sat 9 am – 2 pm, CLOSED SUNDAY
Website / Facebook / Instagram / Email

**While this is a sponsored post, all of my thoughts and opinions are my own. I’m excited and proud that there’s a chocolate company in Michigan that’s so forward thinking about food allergies!**

Originally Published February 2017

The post Oh Mi Organics – Michigan’s Allergen Free Chocolate appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

History of Hudsonville Creamery

I’ll have to admit that prior to this trip, I didn’t know much about Hudsonville ice cream. I knew they were a Michigan company and I know that just over a year ago they took great strides to label their gluten free products. (25 flavors to be exact!) After touring their facility and learning more about Hudsonville, I’ve become a faithful supporter for years.

Hudsonville Creamery began (as a co-op) in 1895. They started making their first ice cream in 1926. This means Husdonville has been around in some capacity for over 100 years! During that time, Hudsonville headquarters moved to Holland, Michigan. Although the address has changed, the commitment to excellent ice cream has not.

Supporting Local Farmers

Hudsonville prides itself on supporting local farmers. I learned that all of their dairy comes from farms within 60 miles of their plant. The plant receives milk to the facility that was milked from the cow within the past 12 hours!

They took us over to Pyle Farm, located in Zeeland, to meet the dairy farmers that they work with. It was such a blessing, as I think far too often we take where our food comes from for granted. It reminds me the hard work that these people do every day to make sure that the food the comes to our table is great in quality and superior in safety.

Hudsonville Keeps Gluten Free Consumers In Mind

Not only did they tell us about their processes, they took us through the entire plant, allowing us to ask questions. As a person with Celiac Disease, I asked about the steps that they take to prevent cross-contact, especially as they have flavors that do contain gluten.

Hudsonville maintains a very detailed allergen matrix. This matrix stipulates the order of flavors made. For example, they manufacture vanilla ice cream first. Other flavors that contain baked good mix-ins are produced later in the day. If there is any concern about safety, they will shut down the complete system and flush it. This is no small order, as it takes hours.

Not only do they take allergen safety steps in their facility, but they also offer training for scoop shops to educate them on allergens. While food allergy training primarily occurs through their website, Hudsonville also willingly sends staff to scoop shops to give in-person education. Many of the scoop shops on my Michigan Ice Cream list serve Hudsonville.

Hudsonville Gives Back

They are also incredibly generous. I moved me to learn Hudsonville often donates ice cream tubs to local homelss shelters. They even keep a freezer in the back of the plant, by the loading bay, to give ice cream to the drivers to take home to their families. Gotta love that!

What’s your favorite flavor of Hudsonville Ice Cream? Let me know in the comments! 

I participated in this excursion freely, received free product coupons, and was provided a free lunch. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

First published in 2015

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