How to Find High Quality Specialty Foods in Tacoma

From artisan cheeses to fresh seafood and freshly baked breads, specialty foods are the greatest part about living in the Pacific Northwest. Today, fresh quality food is becoming more and more popular among consumers across the nation. And in the South Sound and Tacoma, it’s no different.

While mainstream retailers try to provide quality specialty food sales, there’s a disconnect between the big box brands in understanding the expectations of why we South Sounder’s try to always “buy local”.  As a specialty food shop (or as some might call a natural food store or specialty food market) like Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you know you’re buying as local as it can get at our local specialty food market in Tacoma, Puyallup and Lakewood.

But how do you know what to buy and what’s in season? If you’re interested in buying specialty foods in Tacoma, we’re here to help.  We always have knowledgeable staff on hand that can answer any questions at any time.

And if you’re confused as to why we call it specialty foods, look no further than the fact that we don’t sell bulk junk food, like the other big box stores.  We care about your family and what you and your children eat.  Here are our best tips on what to look out for.

Veggies Lead the Way

If you’re new to buying high quality foods, then you can’t go wrong with buying fresh and locally produced veggies. From carrots to potatoes and tomatoes, vegetables that are pesticide-free and fresh not only taste better, but are better for your health and the health of your family.

When it comes to specialty foods, the humble mushroom is now the feature of many foodie trends — vegetables, umami, and foraging.  It’s also great in soups, stir fry and casseroles.

Seasonal vegetables (which is a misnomer now due to the fact that we can get nearly any produce, any time of year… it just might not be from a farm in the South Sound) are also featured as a new taste in many other foods, such as in teas, yogurts, and ice cream. A fun new product many people are coming to love is seaweed.   Everywhere from seaweed crisps to dried seaweed in a packet.  And surprisingly, the kids love it!

Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Non-GMO Foods

Today, foods that are non-GMO are of importance to specialty and quality food consumers.  You can always steer free of GMO foods by purchasing fresh fruit, veggies and meats from Tacoma Boys, without hesitation.

Foods that are non-GMO are without genetically modified organisms that can be questionable for your health.

GMO’s are genes inserted from one species into the genes of another to achieve a certain trait or characteristic, and food made from GMO’s can be typically found in packaged goods with corn, soy or conola, according to the Non-GMO project.

This 2015 Study by Harvard about GMO health risks didn’t link problems with consuming genetically modified food, but some consumer groups have brought up concerns such as infertility, immune issues, quickened aging, faulty insulin regulation and changes in major organs and the gastrointestinal system.

For healthier and fresher foods, opt for items that are non-GMO at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce.

Love All Of The Local Tacoma Food Options

Many high-quality specialty foods in Tacoma are produced locally and, sure enough, being produced locally is a key feature of our selection of specialty foods. Meats, seafood, and other produce that are sourced from nearby regions continue to draw attention from consumers who care and want to know where their food comes from.

Not only are locally sourced goods fresher, and thereby usually tastier, but by purchasing local fare you’re also helping out local farmers and growers instead.

Additionally, we not only source as many products as we can from local providers, but we get the best of the best as well.  Often times, we get fruit, veggies and more in store that was on the plant only a few hours before.  Literally as fresh and local as you can get!

Ready to Buy Quality Specialty Foods in Tacoma?

With our guidance, you should be able to find the highest quality specialty foods in Tacoma that are delicious, healthy, and ethically sourced.

As mentioned, many of the big box stores sell generic boxed foods that are not healthy for your family.  We provide more authentic and locally sourced produce and meats than any other grocer in the South Sound.  So visit us at one of our three locations, where quality is always the better buy.

We’re your one-stop specialty food shop provide the best food to the entire South Sound.   You can find directions to us here.