As part of our recognition of Organic Harvest Month, KIWI is celebrating pioneers of the organic movement by sharing their inspiring stories, plus their thoughts on healthy, sustainable food.

Annie’s Homegrown

In 1989, Annie Whithey, a mom of 2, set out to create a healthier version of mac and cheese, one that was free of artificial additives, preservatives, and colors. Along the way, she founded the company that bears her name—and does so much more than make dinner and snack time healthier.

From its early days making just mac and chees, Annie’s Homegrown has sought to be “a socially responsible business that gave back to the community and did things in an unconventional way—all-natural, and with a commitment to the environment,” says Annie’s CEO John Foraker, who works at the forefront, receiving product ideas and feedback from Annie at her Connecticut farmhouse. “Annie’s was built to be everything mainstream companies weren’t. Whatever Kraft would do, Annie’s would work to do the opposite.”

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As part of our recognition of Organic Harvest Month, KIWI is celebrating pioneers of the organic movement by sharing their inspiring stories, plus their thoughts on healthy, sustainable food.

Eden Foods

In 1968, a group of friends decided they weren’t interested in the processed food products available in supermarkets—so they sought out healthier options on their own: That’s how Eden Foods was born. “We had learned a bit, and decided we didn’t want commercial food, which was full of toxins. We went about getting [healthy food] ourselves and sharing it with as many people as we could,” says Eden Foods CEO Michael Potter.

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Throughout September, we’re showing our support for healthy, organic food. Here are 9 fun ways for you to join in!

1. Visit one of the many natural and organic food festivals and fairs that are occurring across the country this month.
2. Support the Organic Consumers Association by writing a letter to your local paper spreading the word about the importance of organic farming and organic foods.
3. Host a potluck dinner for your family and friends using seasonal, organic foods.
4. Take organics beyond the kitchen and seek out organic pet food, personal care products, clothing, and cleaning supplies.
5. Learn more about what goes into your food before it hits the table by reading books that discuss the importance of natural, organic foods. Try Michael Pollan’s In Defense of Food or, for kids, Ready, Set, Go Organic! by Kelley Ann Lovelace.
6. Each week, sample a different organic chocolate bar with your family. At the end of the month, decide which one you liked best!
7. Show support for the organic movement by volunteering or donating to a local organic gardening program.
8. Help kids have fun while they learn about the importance of organics with the “Help Us Grow the Organic Harvest” coloring book from the Organic Trade Association. Call the OTA at 413-774-7511 to place an order.
9. Let others know about Organic Harvest Month by bringing an organic treat to your workplace, place of worship, book club, or your child’s classroom. Take an organic fruit and cheese plate or homemade baked good made with organic ingredients.

For more about the importance of organics, plus recipes, shopping tips, and more, check out kiwimagonline.com/harvest.