Tootie's Tempeh, Biddeford, ME

Tootie's Tempeh is an award-winning tempeh maker (tempeh is a protein made of fermented beans that originated hundreds of years ago in Indonesia) that has cracked the code on improving the taste and texture of tempeh. The company, located in Maine, has strong values to support the wellbeing of people and the planet, and sources their beans from local and regional organic farmers. The timing for a better tasting tempeh couldn't be better. Consumers are clamoring for more protein, fiber, and gut support, while also looking for proteins that help support their health and the health of the planet. Tootie's appeals to everyone who tries it. With both long-time tempeh eaters to first-time tasters, there is an instant loyalty to the brand. It is nutty, buttery, and doesn't have a hint of bitterness. No need to steam or boil - the bitterness is already gone so it's ready to cook. They accomplished all of this by developing a new fermentation process that eliminates fermenting in plastic bags (rejecting the industry norm), and as a result has been recognized with awards for taste, innovation, and sustainability. In addition, they model a more democratic economy by being a worker-owned cooperative dedicated to supporting local and regional farmers, workers, and communities. The company is named in honor of co-founder Sarah Speare's mother who was nicknamed Tootie (she called everyone Toots). She was an early environmentalist and follower of Rachel Carson who stood up to environmental atrocities starting in the 60s. She has been gone a long time, but instilled in Sarah a passion for our precious planet and a drive to find solutions that cause a whole lot more good than harm. Tootie's actively educates people about the benefits of tempeh and supports home cooks and chefs with recipe ideas through social media and a free digital cookbook.