Coconut flour, Himalayan salt, chia seeds and whatever else you can think of.
Muesli with agave syrup in protein porridge, coconut flour, Himalayan salt, quinoa, black cumin oil, gluten-free biscuits with chocolate chips, chicory coffee, Ceylon cinnamon, flaxseed, homemade bread without additives… These products that seem like something “reserved” for those with slightly deeper pockets are finding their way to grocery baskets of an increasing number of residents of Zagreb with average household budgets. But, the awareness has grown about the consumption of healthy, bio and organic food, without additives or hormones, and the number of shops selling healthy ingredients has opened not only in the centre of the city, but in almost every neighbourhood in the capital, reports Večernji List on July 10, 2016.
They offer a wide range of products. The shelves are full of spices, vegetables, tea, gluten-free products, homemade cheeses, eco-veal and so on. An increasing number of entrepreneurs who want to start a business decide to go into the healthy foods sector. There is still enough space on the market, they say, as every such store has something different to offer. Some of them even have a product delivery option, while others have online shops.
The trend of shopping in health food stores, says nutritionist Diana Gluhak, has also appeared because of the increase in the number of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which are often present in overweight people. However, even when you are buying healthy foods, nutritionist Darija Vranešić says, they should have a nice taste and texture.
“Every year, a certain type of food is an absolute hit. Currently, it is chia seeds, but also various berries”, Gluhak points out. Tihana Pobi, who recently opened “Chefica” store in Lanište, agrees. “Culinary shows have contributed to this trend a lot”, adds Pobi, who mostly sells teas. As for the other well-known shops, “Ceker” in Nova Ves Street offers cold pressed juices, and the favourite one is made of carrots, beets and apples. “Greencajg” is another popular place, with stores in the neighbourhoods of Kvatrić and Trešnjevka, while “Grga Čvarak” sells its eco-food in Vrbani district.
