by Melissa Reiss, Purchasing Assistant
March is Women’s History Month, and here are a selection of products you’ll find at the Co-op from women-owned businesses!
ECOS
Founder Van Vlahakis began creating his own greener cleaning products in his garage in 1967 after immigrating to the United States the decade prior. Since then, they’ve become a Co-op staple and leader in the natural cleaning industry, having reached the trifecta of sustainable manufacturing: carbon neutrality, water neutrality, and zero-waste. In 2014, Van’s daughter Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks took over as President and CEO after he passed, and she still leads the company today.
Ultra Ecos Laundry Detergent
It’s been a Co-op shopper favorite for years—hypoallergenic; made without dyes, phthalates, formaldehyde, and 1,4-Dioxane. One hundred loads per bottle!
ECOS Hand Soap
This unique plant-based formula is powered by the healing properties of vitamin E to deliver naturally clean, soft skin.
Giant Jones: Beer
In 2019, Giant Jones became Madison’s first certified organic brewery! Owners Erika and Jessica Jones brew up big beers on Madison’s east side. They specialize in strong, flavorful beers made with organic ingredients. I’ll cheers to that!
Cedar Teeth: Pizzas and Pizza Crust
One thing that makes Milwaukee-based Cedar Teeth stand out amongst the frozen pizza selection is the crust. Owner Hannah makes the sourdough-based crust from scratch in her Bay View neighborhood kitchen. Choose from a unique lineup of pizzas, or grab a two-pack of their crusts to make your own at home! Note: the crusts are not currently sold at Willy East.
Flavor Temptations: Indian Meal Spice Packs
Co-founders Sara and Partha immigrated from India in the early 1990s in pursuit of their American dream. After a couple of decades in leadership positions in corporate America, they decided to take the leap and pursue their passion of promoting Indian culture through Indian food. They founded Flavor Temptations, a Wisconsin-based, woman-owned small business with a mission to bring energy and joy to your kitchen through exciting aromas, new flavors, and the quality ingredients of their cultural cooking. Find their spice packs at the Co-op for authentic, Indian-based cuisine at home!
Dreamfarm: Chevre Cheese
Owner Diana Murphy and her crew created a creamy and delicious farmstead goat and cow's milk cheeses made in Cross Plains, Wisconsin. Available plain, or in fun varieties like Herbs de Provence, Italian, Garlic Dill, Peppercorn, Cranberry Ginger, and Apricot Honey Lavender.
Badger: Sore Muscle Rub
It all started in 1995 when husband and wife Bill and Katie created and filled tins of their original balm in their kitchen. Twenty-eight years later, the company is now led by second-generation family owners and Collaborate Executive Officers Emily and Rebecca. Badger’s Sore Muscle Rub is a warming and soothing balm for sore, tired muscles. Cayenne and ginger infused in an oil and beeswax base perfect for melting away tension and stiffness. USDA-certified organic and cruelty-free!