As many of us have sheltered in place, I have talked to others and have seen posts on social media stating they wouldn’t take being able to easily buy fresh fruits and vegetables for granted in the future. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist I encourage my clients to consume a plant based diet with as many varieties and colors of fruits and vegetables as possible. It certainly is one of the best things we can do for our health! I also want to support local businesses financially in Charleston and throughout South Carolina.
South Carolina Fresh Produce
In the weeks ahead, I plan to share information on options for accessing South Carolina grown fresh produce. Currently the South Carolina Department of Agriculture has provided this resource on local and South Carolina farms and the many options to obtain produce from these farms.
Favorite South Carolina Food Products
Secondly, I also want to share reviews on some of my favorite South Carolina food products in hopes of supporting local product purchasing.
I can’t talk about nutrition without talking about the importance of having a healthy gut with a diverse microbiome. I firmly believe that eating foods high in probiotics and prebiotics is much better for a healthy gut and our digestive health than taking supplements. Many of the fermented foods that support a healthy microbiome like sauerkraut or kimchi that are available commercially, however, are full of excessive amounts of sodium, preservatives and often packaged in a plastic bag containing harmful endocrine disruptors.
A couple of years ago, I met owner Daniel Walker of Blue Ridge Brinery based in Anderson, SC at the Saturday downtown Greenville Farmer’s Market. I knew from my first conversation with him that he was the “real deal.” He got quality and he understood the impact nutrition could have on health. His goal was to produce fermented products that were healthy while using the highest quality organic ingredients. He also packaged his products in glass which made this nutritionist extremely happy.
I sampled and purchased many of his products that day and I have been a repeat customer. One of my absolute favorites is the Garlic Dill Sauerkraut. It just has an amazing combination of flavors. Blue Ridge Brinery’s products are available in many upstate stores that are listed on their website. Thankfully, many of the products can now be purchased online. I don’t have to wait for Clemson football weekends to get my stash. Hope you will try their products soon for a healthier you while supporting a South Carolina business.
Jana Davis, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
I have not been compensated monetarily or with product for this review.