Carlsbad Company Spotlights: Organic and Natural Food Industry

The natural and organic food industry has grown substantially over the past decade, bringing in billions of dollars in U.S. retail. With a rising demand for plant-based food options, companies in the natural food industry have seen a rapid growth in sales.  

According to the Good Food Institute, the plant-based food market was worth $8.1 billion in 2023, which is more than double what it was worth in 2017. It’s clear that this industry is quickly evolving, and here to stay. 

Tying into our local economy, many well-known and highly praised natural food companies were founded in Carlsbad and grow consistently in popularity. Bitchin’ Sauce, an almond-based dip sold at major retail stores nationwide, started as a young mom’s home creation that picked up popularity at farmers markets in Leucadia and San Marcos. The simple, clean and tasty ingredients drew people in. 

Within six months, Starr Edwards and her husband Luke Edwards were selling this addictive dip at more than 25 farmers markets in Southern California. Today, the company expects to sell more than nine million tubs this year from large chains including Whole Foods, Costco, Albertsons, Vons, Safeway, 7/11, Target and Sprouts. Locally owned and still made in Carlsbad, this company serves as a success story to the natural food industry and aspiring small business owners in Carlsbad.  

Another successful company that had its beginnings at farmers markets in Carlsbad is Prager Bros, a craft artisan bread bakery. Carlsbad born-and-raised siblings Clinton and Louie Prager had a shared passion for creating natural, traditional and wholesome bread. They wanted to create a product that not only tastes delicious, but also respects history and the environment.  

They began to sell at farmers markets in Leucadia and San Marcos and later moved into the Carlsbad Gateway Center on El Camino Real. Today, they have bakeries in Carlsbad, Encinitas and Hillcrest, and continue to sell locally at farmers markets. 

Another success story in the Carlsbad organic food industry is the creation of Mamma Chia. Janie Hoffman, founder and CEO of the company, says that it all started in her kitchen in San Diego County. She was determined to find a diet that could help address some longstanding health challenges. When she discovered the powerful vitality boost that chia seeds provided, she knew she had to share this knowledge with others. 

In the summer of 2009, she followed her passion and started the first organic, chia-based food and beverage company. This sustainable and healthy Carlsbad-based company continues its dedication to sharing nutrient-rich and delicious drinks and snacks powered by chia.  

The natural and organic food industry is taking off around the nation, and Carlsbad proudly serves as the home and neighbor of many well-loved and successful companies. Make sure to keep an eye out for these tasty snacks next time you visit your local grocery store.