Transforming Your Plate: How One Grocer is Revolutionizing Healthy Eating and Nutrition

A new grocery store in Chicago is changing the way people access healthy food. Forty Acres Fresh Market, owned by Elizabeth “Liz” Abunaw, aims to improve community health by providing fresh meals and helpful nutrition resources. Located in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, this store caters to over 40,000 low-income residents within a mile.

Originally a pop-up market in 2018, Forty Acres has grown into a full-service grocery store. It offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items. A unique feature is Mabel’s Meals, a food prep area where shoppers can grab a quick bite.

For breakfast, try “The Morning Glory,” a tasty sandwich packed with eggs, cheese, and veggies. At lunch and dinner, choose from signature rice bowls like the coconut curry Coco Bowl and the Bayou Bowl, which features vegan gumbo. Liz intentionally kept the menu simple to ensure quality, while also embracing diverse flavors.

A supportive seating area encourages customers to enjoy their meals on-site, making it a cozy community hub. This approach has attracted shoppers seeking convenience, lunch, or full grocery services.

Forty Acres isn’t just about food; it focuses on health too. Collaborating with Foodsmart, the store features a Nutrition Corner where customers can find educational resources and connect with dietitians. Recently, the grocery industry has been shifting towards integrating health services into shopping experiences. As Liz notes, it’s all about making healthy living an everyday choice, not just a goal.

Industry expert Jennifer McGuire from Foodsmart highlights the importance of blending food care with shopping. This model could inspire similar initiatives across the U.S., especially as grocery retailers explore new ways to link food access with health benefits.

By prioritizing community health and nutrition, Forty Acres Fresh Market represents a growing movement in grocery retail. As grocery shopping evolves, stores like this one show us that healthy food access can go hand in hand with support and education, ultimately leading to stronger communities.

For more information on Forty Acres Fresh Market, check out the Chicago Development Fund. To learn about their partnership with Foodsmart, visit the joint announcement here.

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