Makeup Clean Up: Discovering Better Beauty Products

Most of us have become accustomed to checking ingredient lists on the food we buy, but there’s another aspect we need to think about — what we put onto our body. It’s just as important as what we put into it, yet turning the bottle around and inspecting the lengthy ingredient list can be daunting. … Continued

Veriditas Botanicals | Local Producer Q&A

    Speaking with Melissa Farris, you quickly grasp her passion for her life’s work. Part chemist and herbalist, part innovative business owner, 100% environmentalist, Farris is the founder of Veriditas Botanicals. She’s also the U.S. agent for S.A. Plantes Aromatics du Diois (SAPAD). The largest selling EO cooperative in the world, SAPAD sells over one-third of … Continued

The Bacon Fever has Broken: Review of 2015 Food Trends

What an exciting year in food! What new food trend or cooking method did you try in 2015? Did you find a new favorite recipe or farm-to-table restaurant? This year was full of great new local products, continued focus on health, growing interest in new technology and a return to the tried and true. Here … Continued

Top 10 Wellness Items for the Holidays

This is one time of year when you really want to feel your best. But travel, family gatherings, gift shopping and numerous get-togethers can be minefields of health woes—from cold and flu bugs to hangovers. Fortunately, there are a few simple tricks to staying well this winter and enjoying it all. Here’s your cheat sheet … Continued

Top 10 Local Gifts from Minnesota for the Holidays

When you’re shopping for the holidays, you want that “just right” gift – one that’s unique, special, and fits your friend or loved one. Whether you’re sending presents in the mail or shopping for someone who “has it all,” here are our top 10 gifts from Minnesota. 1. Tey Art alpaca socks | For cozy … Continued

A Master’s Guide to Shopping the Bulk Aisle

With hundreds of items to choose from, including herbs, oils, whole grains and baking supplies, the bulk aisle is often the most heavily trafficked area in our stores – and for good reason! In honor of our One-day Bulk Sale on November 14, our bulk aisle experts have pulled together a list of tips and advice to … Continued

Herbal Teas for Fall

The crisp fall air sends tea lovers in search of their next warm, soothing mug. . Lakewinds carries a variety of fair trade and organic teas, both packaged and in the bulk section. We’ve highlighted some of our favorites, including pairing tips for blending your own teas. Plus we’ve included interesting information about the health … Continued

5 Reasons to Eat Locally Grown Produce

Minnesotans love locally grown produce. In fact, we’re ranked number 11 in the nation on the U.S. 2015 Locavore Index—not bad for a state with a relatively short growing season. From the decade-strong locavore movement to popular farm-to-table restaurants, the emphasis on local continues to gain momentum. From supporting local farmers to improving your nutritional … Continued

Taste Test: EXO Protein Bar

Being that insects are the most abundant life form on earth, it makes sense that over 80% of the world is eating insects regularly. Beyond having numerous health benefits, they also have a low environmental impact since they produce virtually no methane, and require minimal feed, water and space. It is estimated that crickets are … Continued