FAQ

Is it Organic?

Most of what we source is certified organic, but we also buy from small farmers who follow organic practices but are too small to pursue certification. We prioritize responsible farming practices over certification status.

Do you ship?

We only sell our products locally at neighborhood farmers markets. We work so hard to source only local produce that it feels counterintuitive to then ship our products long distances. We encourage you to support your local fermentors in your area!

Does it need to stay refrigerated?

Yes! Our products are alive and unpasteurized, so they need to stay cold. Refrigeration slows the fermentation process and keeps your kraut crunchy and delicious. Because our products are living fermented foods, the fermentation can start up again if they warm up, which causes bubbling. This is normal and safe, but not how we intend our products to be enjoyed.

How long is it good for?

We date most of our products for a year because they easily last that long in the fridge. They will be crunchiest and freshest closest to when you purchased them, but if it looks good, smells good, and tastes good (and sour!), then it's good. The fermentation creates acidity, which is what makes sauerkraut such a safe food. Healthy bacteria thrive in the acidity while dangerous bacteria do not.

How are your items fermented?

They are lacto-fermented. Our products are all wild fermented, which means we work with the cultures that occur naturally on veggies from healthy soil. Lacto-fermentation refers to the specific bacteria, Lactobacillus. Lactobacillus is present on the produce and in our environment. Lactobacilli break down carbohydrates and make lactic acid, which is what makes sauerkraut sour and why it's called a lacto-ferment. Sauerkraut is sour because of lactic acid that results from the fermentation process. There is no vinegar added to any of our products.

Are your products raw, vegan, and gluten-free?

Yes. We make all of our sauerkrauts and pickles with fresh, raw produce, salt, and spices. We never add dairy, soy, vinegar, or gluten. We follow careful production practices but we do work out of a kitchen that contains nuts.

My jar didn't "pop" when I opened it. Is it still okay?

Yes! We want to keep as many healthy probiotics alive as possible, so we don't heat treat or pasteurize our products. This means the jars don't have a canning type seal, so you don't hear a pop when you open the jar.

What are the health benefits of fermented vegetables?

Raw fermented vegetables are rich in beneficial probiotics that support gut health and digestion. The fermentation process also increases nutrient availability and produces beneficial compounds. Many studies show that including raw fermented foods in our diet can improve health from gut to brain. Plus, they're delicious!

Where can I find you?

Check out our Find Us page for our current market schedule! We're at ten different farmers markets across the Portland metro area this year!