20 Health Food Markets In Tennessee For Organic And Local Produce
Find the freshest organic produce and sustainable products at these 20 health food markets in Tennessee. Shop local and eat healthy with our expert guide.
David Mitchell
Oct 02, 2024
Healthy eating has become a priority for many Tennesseans, driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of organic, sustainable, and locally sourced food. Tennessee’s food scene reflects this shift, with health food markets across the state offering fresh produce, specialty items, and products catered to a variety of dietary needs.
From bustling urban centers to quieter rural areas, health-conscious consumers are discovering that Tennessee offers a wealth of options when it comes to fresh and nutritious food.
These health food markets not only provide access to fresh, local products, but they also support Tennessee's farmers, artisanal producers, and eco-friendly businesses. With a focus on community, sustainability, and nutrition, these markets are at the forefront of Tennessee’s push towards better, healthier eating.
The Turnip Truck – Nashville
A staple in the Nashville community, The Turnip Truck offers a wide variety of organic and sustainably sourced products. From fresh, local produce to grass-fed meats and dairy alternatives, the market is a hub for health-conscious consumers. They also prioritize working with local farmers, ensuring that their products are not only fresh but also support Tennessee’s agricultural community.
In addition to its range of groceries, The Turnip Truck provides eco-friendly household goods and supplements, making it a one-stop shop for those committed to a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. For visitors to Nashville, it’s also considered one of the best places to visitfor anyone looking to explore the city’s vibrant local food scene.
Three Rivers Market – Knoxville
Located in Knoxville, Three Rivers Marketis the first food cooperative in Tennessee, offering a diverse selection of local, organic, and non-GMO products. The co-op is community-owned, with members participating in its operations, creating a strong sense of ownership and community.
Beyond groceries, Three Rivers Market provides nutritional education and workshops to help consumers make informed decisions about their food choices. With a mission to promote sustainable living, the market encourages reducing food waste and supports local farmers by stocking fresh, seasonal produce.
Whole Foods Market – Memphis
Whole Foods Market in Memphis is a go-to destination for health-conscious shoppers seeking organic and non-GMO products. Known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture, Whole Foods offers a vast selection of fresh produce, dairy alternatives, and health products. Although a national chain, Whole Foods places a strong emphasis on supporting local farmers by offering regional produce and goods.
In addition to groceries, the market provides prepared foods and eco-friendly household products, making it convenient for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some shoppers are also interested in food that increases size, such as nutrient-rich options like nuts, seeds, and protein-packed products that contribute to overall health and growth.
Fresh Harvest – Chattanooga
Fresh Harvestoffers a unique approach to healthy eating by delivering fresh, locally sourced produce directly to customers' doors. This Chattanooga-based CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) service allows customers to choose from various subscription options, providing a convenient way to access organic fruits and vegetables.
By working closely with Tennessee farmers, Fresh Harvest ensures that customers receive the freshest seasonal produce, reducing the distance food travels and promoting sustainable practices. This service is ideal for those looking to incorporate more local, healthy food into their diet without the hassle of traditional shopping.
Grubb’s Grocery – Jackson
Located in Jackson, Grubb’s Groceryis a locally owned market that focuses on offering natural, organic, and locally sourced products. From fresh produce to organic snacks and gluten-free items, the market is committed to providing customers with nutritious and eco-friendly options.
Grubb’s also supports local farmers and artisans by featuring their products, making it an excellent place to find unique, locally made goods. Whether you're looking for organic dairy, non-GMO snacks, or eco-friendly household items, Grubb’s Grocery is a favorite for health-conscious shoppers in Jackson.
The Produce Place – Nashville
Established in 1988, The Produce Placeis one of Nashville’s longest-standing health food markets, focusing on fresh, local produce. The store offers a range of organic fruits and vegetables sourced directly from local Tennessee farms.
In addition to produce, The Produce Place offers natural grocery items, organic meats, and dairy products, making it a convenient stop for those looking to support local farmers while maintaining a healthy diet. Their commitment to sustainability and health has made them a trusted part of the Nashville community for decades.
Nashville Farmers' Market – Nashville
The Nashville Farmers' Marketis more than just a place to buy fresh produce—it's a community gathering space that supports local farmers and artisans. The market is open year-round, providing customers with access to a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products.
Visitors can also find locally made health products, such as organic soaps, honey, and herbal remedies. With a focus on sustainability and community support, the Nashville Farmers' Market is a cornerstone of healthy eating in the city.
Wild Oats Natural Marketplace – Johnson City
Located in Johnson City, Wild Oats Natural Marketplaceoffers a diverse selection of natural and organic products, including fresh produce, natural supplements, and eco-friendly household items. The store prides itself on being a comprehensive destination for those interested in healthy living.
Wild Oats also provides a selection of specialty health foods for various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. With knowledgeable staff and a focus on customer wellness, Wild Oats is a trusted resource for the health-conscious community.
Green Door Gourmet – Nashville
Green Door Gourmetis a unique combination of farm, market, and agritourism destination in Nashville. The farm grows organic produce that is sold both at the on-site market and through their CSA program, providing fresh, local food to the community.
In addition to produce, Green Door Gourmet offers organic flowers, herbs, and specialty items like honey and jams. Visitors can enjoy farm tours and workshops, making this market not only a place to shop but also an educational experience about sustainable agriculture.
The Fresh Market – Knoxville
The Fresh Marketin Knoxville provides a curated selection of organic produce, fresh meats, and health-conscious grocery items. Known for its boutique-style shopping experience, The Fresh Market emphasizes quality and freshness in every product they carry.
With a focus on natural and organic foods, The Fresh Market also offers a range of specialty products, including gluten-free, paleo, and keto-friendly options. This store is perfect for those who want a personalized shopping experience focused on health and nutrition.
Bluff City Soap & Market – Memphis
Bluff City Soap & Marketin Memphis is a small market offering a selection of local, organic products, with a focus on clean living and sustainability. Along with organic produce, the market also offers natural body care products and handmade soaps.
The market’s emphasis on locally sourced goods makes it a popular choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while supporting small Tennessee businesses. Bluff City Soap & Market is ideal for customers who want to prioritize both health and sustainability in their shopping.
White Squirrel Market – Cookeville
White Squirrel Marketin Cookeville is a health-focused store that offers a wide range of organic, local, and non-GMO products. Their selection includes fresh produce, natural supplements, and eco-friendly household items, catering to health-conscious customers in the area.
The market also hosts workshops on healthy living, sustainable practices, and natural remedies, providing educational opportunities for the local community. White Squirrel Market is a go-to destination for those seeking both healthy food and wellness resources.
East Nashville Farmers Market – Nashville
A popular spot for fresh, locally grown produce, the East Nashville Farmers Marketbrings together farmers, artisans, and community members. The market offers organic fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats, with an emphasis on sustainability and supporting local farms.
In addition to food, the market features a variety of natural health products, handmade crafts, and wellness workshops, making it a vibrant space for health-conscious consumers in Nashville.
Natural Foods Market – Murfreesboro
Located in Murfreesboro, Natural Foods Marketoffers a selection of organic and non-GMO foods, including fresh produce, bulk items, and natural supplements. The market focuses on providing healthy, sustainable food options for the local community.
Natural Foods Market also hosts events such as health seminars and cooking classes, helping shoppers learn more about maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Their dedication to wellness makes them a popular choice for health-focused consumers in Murfreesboro.
Nashville Grown Farmers Market – Nashville
A project by the nonprofit Nashville Grown, this farmers' market focuses on connecting consumers with fresh, local food directly from Tennessee farmers. The market offers a variety of organic produce, meats, and specialty products.
By promoting sustainable farming and reducing food miles, Nashville Grown Farmers Market plays a key role in supporting Tennessee’s agricultural community. It’s a great choice for shoppers looking to buy fresh, seasonal products while supporting local farmers.
Market Square Farmers' Market – Knoxville
Held in the heart of downtown Knoxville, the Market Square Farmers' Marketis a bustling marketplace featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, and natural health products. The market is open twice a week and provides customers with access to locally grown, organic produce.
The Market Square Farmers' Market emphasizes sustainability and community, offering shoppers a chance to meet the farmers and learn more about where their food comes from. It’s a great spot for those seeking a wide variety of healthy, local products.
Earth Fare – Chattanooga
Earth Farein Chattanooga offers a range of natural and organic products, focusing on minimally processed and non-GMO foods. The store has strict standards for the products they carry, ensuring that customers have access to the healthiest options available.
With a wide selection of fresh produce, natural supplements, and eco-friendly household items, Earth Fare is a popular destination for health-conscious shoppers in Chattanooga. The store also features a wellness section with vitamins and natural remedies.
Nature's Pantry – Nashville
Located in Nashville, Nature's Pantryspecializes in organic produce, natural supplements, and eco-friendly products. The market has been serving the community for years, with a focus on providing health-conscious consumers with the best possible options for a sustainable lifestyle.
Nature’s Pantry also offers educational resources, including workshops on nutrition and sustainable living, helping customers make informed choices about their health and the environment.
Earth Fare – Chattanooga
Earth Fare in Chattanooga is known for its commitment to offering organic, non-GMO, and minimally processed foods. With a strict set of standards, the store ensures that every product meets a high level of health and sustainability. Shoppers can find fresh produce, grass-fed meats, organic dairy, and a variety of eco-friendly household items.
Earth Fare also promotes a "clean food philosophy," meaning customers can trust that they are getting healthy, responsibly sourced items. For those who like to take chances with new products or lifestyle changes, it's almost like placing a bet and win, knowing that Earth Fare's offerings align with their commitment to health and quality. The store also frequently hosts events like health workshops, allowing customers to learn more about healthy living while they shop.
Nature's Pantry – Nashville
Located in Nashville, Nature's Pantryis a health food market specializing in organic products and natural supplements. The store carries a wide selection of organic fruits, vegetables, and non-GMO grains, making it an excellent option for those seeking clean eating choices.
In addition to groceries, Nature’s Pantry offers eco-friendly cleaning supplies and a range of vitamins and herbal supplements. Their focus on sustainability and wellness extends beyond the food they sell, ensuring customers can find holistic health products all in one place.
Benefits Of Shopping At Health Food Markets
Shopping at health food markets offers numerous advantages, both for your health and the environment. By choosing to buy locally sourced, organic products, shoppers can access fresher, more nutrient-dense food that hasn’t been heavily processed or transported over long distances. Local produce is often harvested at peak ripeness, resulting in better flavor and higher nutritional content.
Health food markets also prioritize sustainability, with many offering eco-friendly packaging and promoting zero-waste shopping through bulk food options. By supporting these markets, consumers are also supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of their food choices.
How To Shop Smart At Tennessee's Health Food Markets
Shopping at health food markets can sometimes be more expensive than traditional grocery stores, but there are several ways to shop smart and make the most of your budget. Start by focusing on seasonal produce, which tends to be more affordable and fresher. Buying in bulk is another great option, as it allows you to stock up on staples like grains, nuts, and spices without the added cost of packaging.
Many health food markets offer loyalty programs or discounts on certain days of the week. Signing up for a store’s membership program can provide additional savings, making healthy eating more accessible. Lastly, meal planning can help you maximize your shopping experience, ensuring that you buy only what you need and reduce food waste.
Special Events And Programs Offered By Tennessee Health Markets
Farm-to-Table Dinners
Many health food markets in Tennessee, such as Green Door Gourmetand The Turnip Truck, host farm-to-table dinners. These events offer customers the chance to enjoy locally sourced meals prepared by professional chefs, showcasing seasonal ingredients from nearby farms. It's a great opportunity for market patrons to see how their purchases can be transformed into gourmet dishes while supporting local agriculture.
Cooking Workshops And Demonstrations
Health food markets like Three Rivers Market and The Produce Place often offer cooking classes focused on teaching customers how to prepare healthy, plant-based, or gluten-free meals. These workshops are led by local chefs or nutritionists and provide practical tips on incorporating fresh, seasonal produce into everyday cooking. By attending these classes, you can become a cooking pro, learning new techniques and recipes that make healthy eating both easy and enjoyable.
Nutrition Education Seminars
Markets such as Whole Foods Memphisfrequently hold seminars on various health topics, including organic eating, managing special diets (like keto or vegan), and the importance of non-GMO and pesticide-free foods. These programs help shoppers make more informed decisions about their food purchases.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Subscription Services
Markets like Fresh Harvestand Farm 58offer CSA programs, where customers can subscribe to receive a weekly or bi-weekly box of fresh, locally grown produce. This not only ensures customers have access to seasonal fruits and vegetables but also helps support local farms directly.
Local Artisan Markets And Pop-Up Events
Some markets, including Grubb’s Groceryand the Nashville Farmers' Market, regularly host pop-up markets featuring local artisans and producers. Customers can browse unique, handmade goods, such as organic skincare products, herbal teas, and natural supplements, while enjoying live music or other entertainment.
Food Donation Programs
Several health food markets, such as The Turnip Truckand Three Rivers Market, partner with local food banks and charities to donate unsold or excess produce to those in need. This helps reduce food waste and supports the local community by providing healthy food options to underserved populations.
Sustainability And Zero-Waste Initiatives
Markets like Wild Oats Natural Marketplacepromote sustainability through zero-waste shopping options. Customers are encouraged to bring reusable containers and bags to reduce packaging waste. Markets may also offer bulk-buy sections for grains, spices, and nuts, allowing shoppers to purchase only what they need and reduce food waste.
Seasonal Festivals And Fairs
Health food markets, including Nashville Farmers' Market, host seasonal events that celebrate local agriculture and community. These festivals often include farm tours, kids’ activities, and tastings of locally grown produce. It's a great way for families to learn more about sustainable farming and connect with local producers.
Healthy Lifestyle Membership Discounts
Some markets offer loyalty or membership programs that reward frequent shoppers with discounts on groceries or early access to special events. For example, Three Rivers Marketoffers co-op memberships that give customers voting rights on market decisions, along with regular member discounts.
Kids’ Nutrition Classes
Markets like Green Door Gourmethost events specifically geared toward teaching children about healthy eating. These hands-on workshops allow kids to explore fresh produce, learn about where their food comes from, and even try out simple cooking techniques.
Eating Healthy On A Budget In Tennessee
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive, and Tennessee’s health food markets make it possible to eat well on a budget. Many markets offer affordable, locally sourced options that are not only good for your health but also support the local economy. Shopping in-season is one of the best ways to save money, as seasonal produce is often more plentiful and less expensive.
Some markets, like Three Rivers Market, participate in programs that allow SNAP benefits to be used on fresh produce, making it easier for low-income families to access healthy food. Additionally, many farmers' markets offer discounts on bulk purchases or have “seconds” sections, where slightly imperfect produce is sold at a lower price.
FAQs
What Are The Best Health Food Markets In Tennessee?
Some of the top markets include The Turnip Truckin Nashville, Three Rivers Marketin Knoxville, and Grubb’s Groceryin Jackson.
Are There Health Food Markets That Offer Delivery Services?
Yes, markets like Fresh Harvestin Chattanooga offer home delivery services for fresh, local produce.
What Makes A Market A "health Food Market"?
Health food markets prioritize offering organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced products, often working directly with local farmers to provide the freshest produce possible.
Can I Find Affordable Health Food Options At These Markets?
Yes, by shopping in-season, buying in bulk, and taking advantage of store discounts and loyalty programs, you can eat healthy on a budget.
Do Tennessee Health Food Markets Prioritize Organic And Non-GMO Produce?
Many of the top markets, including The Turnip Truckand Three Rivers Market, are committed to providing organic and non-GMO products.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s health food markets are redefining the way people eat by offering fresh, organic, and locally sourced products that are not only nutritious but also environmentally sustainable.
From Nashville to Chattanooga, these markets are making healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for all. By shopping at these markets, Tennesseans can support local farmers, reduce their environmental impact, and make better food choices for their health.