HONOLULU (HI Now) - Kainoa Carlson heads to Foodland Farms Ala Moana to meet the local makers and flavors building community one aisle at a time.
First up is ReBran, a locally owned granola company started a little over a year ago with a thoughtful mission rooted in care for resources. Inspired by the Japanese concept of mottainai, founder Tatsuyoshi Omura transforms upcycled rice bran, one of the most nutrient dense parts of the grain that is often discarded, into fresh and locally milled Branola.
The gluten free and gut friendly granola comes in flavors like Island Honey and Sea Salt, Cafe Mocha, Matcha Goji Berry, Hawaiian Coffee, Banana Bread, and Black Sesame Kinako, and finding it on Foodland shelves feels like a full circle moment for a family that has always shopped there.
The visit continues in the kitchen with Chef Drew Parker, who shares an easy game day recipe made with a favorite Foodland ingredient.
It is a simple and satisfying demo built for busy hosts who want big flavor without extra stress, perfect for planning ahead for the next watch party.
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The day closes with a look at the people behind the store as Kainoa talks story with In Store Coordinator Ryo Oshiro about his career path and what it means to be part of the Foodland family.
Founded in 1948, Foodland is Hawaii’s largest locally owned grocery retailer with 29 stores and more than 3,400 employees, and it offers a warm workplace rooted in service, community and growth.
Learn more at Foodland.com, explore openings at Foodland.com/careers, and follow along at @FoodlandHI on Instagram.
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