This week, we’re travelling a bit further from home, to introduce one of our favourite Irish independent grocers, Manna Organic.

About Manna Organic

Manna’s Roots: 2012 was a momentous year for Manna Organic owners, Claire and Thomas O’Connor. Not only did they buy the local wholefoods store; they also purchased 25 acres of land, without any experience in farming or running a shop. It all worked out, and now the shop is a favourite amongst Co Kerry locals, who enjoy seasonal, fresh produce (from the farm!), confectionary, store cupboard essentials and even soap refills. For the Manna team, serving their customers is their favourite thing about running the shop. 'Nothing beats seeing a customer delighted at finding a product they had been searching for and couldn’t find anywhere else. Except, perhaps, for when someone comes in to tell us they cooked a new recipe with Manna produce and it went well'

Organic Advocates: Manna’s founders are organic enthusiasts, keeping an eye on the impacts of organic methods on their own land. Environmental surveys on their farm show increasing biodiversity, such as wild flowers variety and small mammal numbers. Claire and Thomas find knowing that the same improvements are happening on every organic farm very rewarding.

“Knowing that every time I buy an organic product I am supporting organic farmers who are helping their land heal and thrive is such a good feeling.” Manna’s founders had Biona in mind from the beginning, having always known and eaten the products, making it an obvious choice for their tinned ranges.

Claire’s vote for favourite Biona product goes to our Organic Worcester Sauce. “It tastes just like I remember from my childhood, but it’s organic and vegan. It’s fantastic with scrambled eggs, beans on toasts or adding that little oomph to a stew or stir fry.”

Where to find them: Island of Geese, Strand St, Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.

Facebook: @MannaOrganicFarmAndStore

Instagram: @mannaorganicstore