Why Scratch-Made Meals Are Better for Your Health (And Your Community)

At Founding Farmers Restaurant Group, we believe that the best meals start in the soil. For over 15 years, we’ve partnered with American family farmers who share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and wholesome ingredients. Today, we’re diving into why scratch-made meals aren’t just better tasting – they’re better for your health. 

The Real Difference in Scratch-Made Cooking 

When you walk into any of our locations, you won’t find pre-made sauces, soups, desserts, or even bread. Instead, you’ll see our chefs chopping fresh vegetables from family farms, grinding beef for burgers, roasting vegetables, mixing dressings, and simmering stocks that have been cooking for hours. But why does this matter for your health? 

1. Control Over Ingredients

By making everything from scratch, we control exactly what goes into your food. Our partnership with family farmers means we can trace every ingredient back to its source. No artificial preservatives, no hidden additives – just real, whole foods prepared with care. 

2. Higher Nutritional Value

Fresh ingredients prepared properly retain more of their natural nutrients. When vegetables go from the farm to your plate quickly, they maintain higher levels of vitamins and minerals. Our scratch-made approach means: 

• Fresher produce with peak nutritional content 

• Properly prepared whole grains that retain their fiber 

• Carefully cooked proteins that preserve their nutritional value 

3. Better Digestion and Absorption

When food is prepared from scratch, your body knows exactly how to process it. Our traditional cooking methods can actually make nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. 

Beyond Personal Health: Community Impact 

Choosing scratch-made dining doesn’t just benefit your health – it supports a sustainable food system. Our partnerships with family farmers and suppliers, like those from the North Dakota Farmers Union, help: 

• Preserve family farming traditions 

• Unbundle the supply chain  

• Reduce transportation emissions 

• Ensure family farmers are getting a larger share of the food dollar 

• Support local economies 

• Maintain agricultural diversity 

Making the Healthy Choice 

In today’s fast-paced world, finding healthy dining options can be challenging. But when you choose scratch-made meals, you’re not just selecting better ingredients – you’re choosing food made with intention and care. 

Our commitment to scratch cooking means: 

• House-made pastas, breads, desserts, and pastries 

• House-crafted sauces and dressings 

• Fresh-cut or ground meats  

• Thoughtfully sourced, traceable seafood 

• Hand-prepared seasonal vegetables 

Your Premium Choice for Healthy Dining 

We take pride in offering an unmatched dining experience. Our scratch-made healthy dining options prove that nutritious food can be both delicious and satisfying. 

When you dine with us, you’re not just having a meal – you’re participating in a food system that values health, community, and tradition. From our family farmers to your table, we’re committed to serving food that nourishes both body and soul. 

Visit any of our locations to experience the difference that scratch-made cooking makes. Your body – and our farming families – will thank you.