#United States #Cleveland #Non-GMO Project #Terranean Herbs #Authentic Mediterranean

Terranean Herbs: Empowering Community through Authentic Mediterranean Food

In an age where food authenticity and transparency matter more than ever, Terranean, a women-owned Lebanese American snack company, is making waves from Cleveland, Ohio. Founded by Tina Chamoun, this company combines rich heritage with modern consumer needs, all while empowering immigrant women and ensuring a sustainable business model. Recently, Terranean secured funding through the Non-GMO Project's Equitable Transfer Program, allowing it to renew its Non-GMO Project verification for its popular pita chip snacks and seasonings.

Commitment to Non-GMO Practices

The Non-GMO Project, launched its Equitable Transfer Program in 2023, aims to support BIPOC-led companies, providing them with funding to increase market visibility and maintain vital third-party verifications necessary for consumer trust. By targeting financial discrepancies, the program plays a crucial role in leveling the playing field in the food and beverage industry. For Terranean, these funds are pivotal in reinforcing its commitment to providing high-quality, authentic Mediterranean snacks.

Reviving Authentic Levantine Flavors

At the heart of Terranean's offerings are their unique double-layered pita chips, characterized by a crisp texture and rich, authentic ingredients. Among the standout flavors are the globally adored za'atar herbs — a blend that embodies the essence of Levantine cuisine. It’s not just about snacks; it's Tina Chamoun’s mission to share her culture and history with a broad audience and prove that authentic flavors deserve their place in the American market. "For years, Levantine flavors were either overlooked or misrepresented on US shelves, and Terranean set out to change that," Chamoun explains.

Initially launched in 2019 with small-batch za'atar blends, Terranean has since evolved into a community-driven brand committed to producing culturally authentic snacks. The positive feedback gained illustrate the resonance in the market; Terranean’s products have been awarded various honors, including recognition at the Nourishing Change Conference and being named “Best Pita Chip” by Good Housekeeping.

Community Contributions

Beyond serving tasty snacks, Terranean is invested in local community development. Chamoun has co-founded initiatives such as Wonder Women of Food, a networking and mentorship platform for women in the culinary industry, and Arab Americans Cleveland, which aims to connect and uplift Arab-American professionals. This ethos of community engagement aligns with Terranean's mission: creating not just food, but pathways to empowerment and representation for immigrants and women.

"At Terranean, our engagement in the ethnic community is an extension of our mission. We are a purpose-driven company dedicated to social impact," Chamoun emphasizes. The goal is clear — to create a strong, inclusive Northeast Ohio where everyone has access to economic opportunities.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability intertwines with Terranean’s identity. Utilizing funding from the Equitable Transfer Program, the company has reinforced its commitment to eco-friendly practices, ensuring that all products are made from non-GMO, vegan, and dairy-free ingredients, while avoiding preservatives and artificial dyes. Additionally, Terranean is working towards a zero-waste initiative by upcycling imperfect pita bread and production waste into compost, thereby minimizing food waste in the community.

Megan Westgate, CEO of the Non-GMO Project, praises Terranean for its initiative: "Tina has built a business that not only preserves authentic cultural traditions but also shapes economic opportunities for immigrant women and builds community connections."

Conclusion

Terranean is more than a snack company. It embodies a vision for a more inclusive, responsible, and flavorful future in the food industry. By supporting cultural heritage and sustainability, Terranean is paving the way for a more equitable marketplace while bringing the delights of Levantine cuisine to the forefront. As consumers increasingly seek authentic experiences and ethical products, Terranean is poised to be a leader in the realm of culturally rich and community-focused food.

For further details and to explore Terranean's offerings, visit www.terraneanherbs.com.