Stew Leonard’s has launched it’s first ever Shark Tank-style competition, appropriately enough called “Stew’s Tank,” a chance for small businesses to have their products sold permanently at the six farm-fresh food stores.Thirteen vendors were chosen as finalists to demo their products at Stew Leonard’s East Meadow, NY location from June 8 through July 7, and among them you’ll find local, family-owned Pound Ridge company, Healing Home Foods.Founded by Shelly and John Schulz, Healing Home Foods makes gluten-free and natural food products including granola, raw crackers, nut butters, and more. Shelley started the company to help her her son, who was diagnosed with autism in 2006, when she realized that having to eat clean to manage his diagnosis meant giving up on flavor and/or texture.“Stew Leonard’s buyers selected Healing Home Foods because of the products’ clean labels, use of healthy ingredients, and, most of all, because they taste great,” says Stew Leonard’s director of public relations Meghan Bell.
Healing Home Food’s main goal is to create products that promote mental and physical health, and finding a permanent place on Stew Leonard’s shelves would benefit the store’s loyal shoppers.“We understand that gluten-free and vegan products are often limited, and we are happy to be part of Stew Leonard’s expansion of these categories,” says Shelly. “People should know that we are feeding these snacks to our own family. That is the highest bar a food manufacturer could set for oneself and others.”Of the 13 finalists, five to seven will be chosen to receive year-round shelf space at Stew Leonard’s locations. The final decision will be made by a panel of judges including company CEO Stew Leonard Jr., and take into consideration a product’s sales, social media buzz, customer feedback, and results from online voting.You can support the Schulz Family and Healing Home Foods by buying their products at the East Meadow location ( if you happen to be on Long Island) or by posting on social media and voting by the July 7 deadline.Read More: 6 Locally Made, Healthy Snacks You Need to Try Now
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