Natural Food Cooperative Market

Welcome to the vision of True Alchemy Gardens Natural Foods Co-op Market, an emerging hub for fresh, organic, and sustainably sourced foods. Rooted in the mission of The Alchemist Den, our future co-op aims to provide a space where community, culture, and wellness come together. Imagine shelves stocked with local produce, plant-based snacks, herbal remedies, and eco-friendly household essentials—all tailored to nourish the body and soul while supporting small farmers and artisans.

This dream is about more than food; it’s about fostering a community where everyone has access to affordable, wholesome options. We’re committed to creating a market that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of our neighborhoods, with an emphasis on inclusivity for marginalized communities and families seeking healthier lifestyles.

We’re excited about what’s to come and invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you spread the word, share your ideas, or support us in other ways, every little bit helps us get closer to making this vision a reality. Together, we can cultivate a healthier, more connected community. Stay tuned as we grow, and thank you for believing in True Alchemy Gardens.

Keep Me Informed

What is a natural food cooperative?

A natural food cooperative (co-op) is a community-owned and operated grocery store or market that specializes in offering natural, organic, and sustainably sourced food products. Unlike traditional grocery stores, co-ops are owned and governed by their members, who typically pay a small membership fee to join. Members have a voice in the store’s operations, including decisions about the products sold, pricing, and how profits are reinvested into the community.

Natural food co-ops focus on providing healthy, minimally processed, and eco-friendly options, often prioritizing local farmers and producers. They emphasize values such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, fair trade, and reducing environmental impact. In addition to food, co-ops may also offer natural household products, wellness items, and educational resources on healthy living.

The co-op model fosters a sense of community, promotes food security, and encourages a more conscious and sustainable approach to shopping and eating. It’s a place where people come together to support shared goals of health, equity, and environmental stewardship.

Shopping Experience

Our goal is a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience with established protocols for customer interactions:

Membership Inquiry at Checkout:
- When checking out, your cashier may inquire if you are a member-owner or have a member number.
- If you are not a member, answer "no" and proceed with your transaction.
Customer Service Desk Assistance:
- A dedicated Customer Service Desk staff available to:
  - Answer questions
  - Assist with locating specific items in the store.
  - Check bags for a seamless shopping experience.
  - Process exchanges and refunds promptly
Membership Support:
- The Customer Service Desk is equipped to help community members:
  - Join the co-op and become a member-owner.
  - Renew memberships on an annual basis.
  - Provide information on the benefits of co-op ownership.
  - assist with any aspect of the shopping experience or greater mission involvement.
Ease for New Shoppers:
- We understand that our store concept is unique, and we want to make it easy for new shoppers to navigate and make the most of their visit.
- Guidance or recommendations
Smart Shopping Approach:

Buy only what you need to reduce waste and save on packaging.

Enjoy the flexibility of choosing quantities that suit your usage, preventing unnecessary purchases.

7. Environmentally Conscious Options:

Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by selecting from our range of environmentally friendly products.

8. Personalized Service:

Introduce members to Doctor's Orders Program, CSA opportunities, and other initiatives that contribute to food security in the area.

Environmentally Conscious Options:

Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by selecting from our range of environmentally friendly products.

Added Benefits:

Food Security
Community Engagement with vested interest

(Owned and operated by community members)

Membership based structured CSA(Community Supported Agriculture)
Seasonally and Locally sourced foods
Packaged product development & delivery programs
Additional community-based supply chain creation

Vegan

1. Jollof Quinoa Paella:
- A fusion of West African and Spanish flavors, this dish features quinoa cooked in a vibrant tomato-based sauce infused with traditional Jollof spices, paired with a medley of colorful vegetables and plant-based protein for a delightful vegan paella experience.

2. Okra Gumbo Stew:
- A vegan twist on the classic Southern dish, this gumbo stew combines okra, hearty vegetables, and a rich roux, simmered to perfection. Infused with Creole spices, it offers a flavorful journey reminiscent of the diverse culinary influences of the African diaspora.

3. Berbere Spiced Lentil Cakes:
-Inspired by the bold flavors of East African cuisine, these savory lentil cakes are seasoned with berbere spice, creating a harmonious blend of heat and aromatic spices. Served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney, these cakes showcase the diversity and richness of vegan dishes within the African diaspora.

Vegetarian

1. Quinoa-stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Vibrant bell peppers generously filled with a savory blend of tri-colored quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Baked to perfection, these stuffed peppers offer a wholesome and protein-packed option for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

2. Mushroom and Spinach Wellington:
- A delectable twist on the classic Wellington, featuring layers of earthy mushrooms and sautéed spinach encased in flaky puff pastry. Served in individual portions, this dish combines rich flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

3. Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Rice:
- A fragrant and hearty curry showcasing the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas. Accompanied by coconut-infused basmati rice, this flavorful combination offers a taste of exotic spices and comforting textures on the vegetarian buffet.

Raw

1. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes:
- Enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional pasta with expertly spiralized zucchini noodles. Tossed in a vibrant basil pesto sauce and adorned with plump cherry tomatoes, this dish offers a burst of flavors and textures.

2. Raw Pad Thai with Kelp Noodles:
- Experience the fusion of culinary creativity and raw goodness with a chef-inspired Raw Pad Thai. Featuring delicate kelp noodles, julienned vegetables, and a tantalizing almond or cashew sauce, this dish captures the essence of Thai cuisine in a fresh and uncooked form.

3. Citrus Marinated Mushroom Ceviche:
- Elevate your taste buds with a chef-crafted Citrus Marinated Mushroom Ceviche. This raw twist on a classic dish combines thinly sliced mushrooms marinated in zesty citrus juices, paired with crisp vegetables, avocado, and cilantro. The result is a flavorful and satisfying ceviche that celebrates the essence of raw culinary innovation.

Pescatarian

Here are five dishes you might find on a natural food pescatarian buffet:

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon:
- Succulent salmon fillets marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and zesty lemon, grilled to perfection. This dish provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mix of quinoa, black beans, vegetables, and herbs. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a protein-packed option.
Seared Tuna Salad with Avocado:
- Lightly seared tuna slices served on a bed of fresh mixed greens, accompanied by ripe avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a citrusy vinaigrette. A refreshing and protein-rich salad option.

These examples of dishes showcase the diversity and deliciousness of a pescatarian buffet, providing a balance of lean proteins, whole grains, and vibrant vegetables for a satisfying and nutritious meal.