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Organic Industry
Background Information
The popularity of organic foods and products continues
to increase. Organics are an $11 billion industry in
North America, and organic farming is the fastest growing
sector of the agricultural economy. Sixty three percent
of Americans say they buy organic products at least
some of the time. Organic foods benefit both the earth
and people. Organic growing builds healthy soil and
can reduce ground and surface water contamination.
Organic foods provide reduced health risks
and less exposure to nitrates and pesticide residues.
There is also increasing evidence that organically grown
fruits, vegetables and grains offer more of some nutrients
including vitamin C, iron and magnesium. For foods to
be certified organic, farmers must adhere to strict,
uniform standards that include detailed records, inspections
and testing of soil and water. (Source: Organic Trade
Association, www.ota.com)
Native Sun Background
Information
Native Products
Native Sun Natural Foods Market is Northeast Florida's only
natural and organic supermarket with over 10,000 square
feet of fresh, nutritious foods and all-natural products.
The store contains thousands of items
including fresh produce, fish, poultry, pastas, cereal,
breads, soy products, frozen meals, snack foods, health
and beauty items, and environmentally sensitive household
products. A deli and bakery offer ready-made selections
of sandwiches, salads and desserts prepared fresh daily.
Those on special diets such as yeast-free, dairy- and
lactose-free and vegan will find the foods they need.
Vitamins, herbs and homeopathic remedies
are available, and Native Sun has a range of all-natural
products for babies and toddlers including organic formula,
baby foods and care products free of chemicals and artificial
colorings. The store also has a pet section featuring
vegetarian dog foods, supplements and other supplies.
Native Purity
Native Sun believes a proper diet is essential to overall
health. That is why the store carries only fresh organic
foods ú foods free of pesticides, genetically modified
organisms, synthetic chemicals and hormones. Organic
foods are good not only for the body, but for the environment
as well. The products promote a healthy ecosystem because
they are raised or grown on eco-friendly farms. Crop
rotation is used in place of pesticides and animals
are provided with organically grown feed, fresh air
and outdoor activity.
Native Beginnings
Native Sun got its start six years ago when Aaron Gottlieb
was diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr virus, which left
him constantly tired. Friends introduced him to organic
food and a vegetarian diet, and a year later he had
lost 80 pounds and gained new-found well-being. After
the illness, Gottlieb decided to dedicate his life to
helping others eat healthy. Gottlieb and his wife Erica
opened Native Sun in 1997 with five employees. A recent
expansion and makeover doubled its size, and today the
store has 30 employees.
Native Education
The staff is committed to not only providing the highest
quality organic products, but also building relationships
with customers. Native Sun researches and knows the
products it sells and is eager to share this knowledge
with customers. In addition, a wide selection of books
and other educational materials are available.
As part of its commitment to educating
the community, Native Sun hosts monthly educational
seminars focusing on nutrition and health. Nationally
recognized guest lecturers speak on a variety of health
topics from allergies and natural remedies to preventing
cancer and other diseases. The seminars are free and
open to the public. Native Sun staff is also available
to talk to community groups.
Native Online
The store's Web site (www.nativesunjax.com) features
recipes, new products, nutrition information and helpful
links. Information on Native Sun's monthly educational
seminars can also be found at the site.
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