Primafavorites Fall 2023: great greens, sex for good health, and food truths

Whether it’s discovering a new inclusive cookbook author or reaching for our tried-and-true clean products, we’re always seeking inspiring brands, projects, and people that make life more beautiful. Here’s a look at what we’re currently coveting, exploring, trying, and genuinely enjoying at PrimaFoodie.

PrimaFavorites: Autumn 2023 Edition

maui nui venison

“Peter Attia has been endorsing this for some time, which is why it originally caught my attention. This is wild harvested axis deer meat from Maui, sourced from a company that follows strict land stewardship practices. I had the tenderloin and it was, well, like a well-prepared tenderloin. There were no gristly bits; only tender, flavorful bites.” —Nichole

Stur Drinks

“Stur drinks are similar to other brands, like Mio or Crystal light, that flavor water except they do not use artificial or chemical sweeteners or any food coloring, such as Yellow Lake 5, Blue 1, Red 40, etc. I love how they’re in partnership with the Thrist Project, so for every order they donate one year of clean drinking water to a person in need. I struggle with drinking enough water throughout the day, and I have found these helpful in enhancing my intake. Plus, there are a ton of different flavors!” —Bonnie

“Smartless”

“Everything these guys say is funny. When I listen to this podcast, I’m always laughing out loud—which can be very awkward depending on where you are, and I love it! There doesn’t always need to be a point or a moral. They’re three friends—Will Arnett, Sean Hayes, and Jason Bateman—who shoot the breeze and lovingly having a go at each other. They also happen to interview some incredible guests. Oh and starting with Will Ferrell is never a bad idea.” —Nichole

laird superfood prebiotic daily greens

“I have tried nearly every chlorophyll-based alkalizing green powder I can get my hands on, and every one leaves some sort of chalky residue. That is, until I discovered this one, which recently came out. Made of adaptogenics, organic vegetables, and a bounty of mineral-rich algae, it’s a drinkable and actually enjoyable way to start my day. I feel good getting a perfect dose of pre and probiotics, vitamins, and aminos early in the morning” —Stacey

“How to Have Better Sex”

“Dr. Emily Morse, the revered sex expert and author, talks candidly on this episode of “The Mind Pump Podcast.” I took away so many great nuggets from her interview. Every woman and man should listen to this for their health.” —Nichole

Dr. Bronner’s Magic All-One Chocolate

“I’ve enjoyed every flavor but the coconut dark chocolate my current favorite—same for our entire household. It’s delicious and happens to be one of the cleanest and most sustainable chocolates I’ve found on the market.” —Nichole

“Your Genes May Influence What You Like to Eat”

“Scientific American consistently published the most riveting—and astonishing—articles on modern-day science and health. This piece explores how our genetics play a key role in why each of us likes certain foods and dislikes others. But what is additionally interesting is the role genetics has not only on our diet choice but on how our brain pathways respond to various foods and nutrients.” —Stacey

Poisoned: The Dirty Truth about Your Food

“Netflix’s new documentary dives into the history of food regulation and food borne illness. It sheds light on the sense of urgency about food regulations and reveals the frustrations between the USDA (what regulates meat, poultry, and eggs) and the FDA (which regulates all food involved in interstate commerce). Not only does the documentary reveal the current issues we face in the American food system, but it also highlights horrific details about food borne illness through providing examples of how meat transports throughout the food system from farming to end up on restaurant tables.” —Bonnie

Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones

“Author Dan Buettner, the journalist behind the acclaimed book Blue Zones, takes us around the world in this documentary. I’ve read a lot about blue zones over the years. I was intrigued by the new perspective the filmmakers are taking in this film, which focuses on the unique communities around the globe where people live long, healthy lives. It’s not just eating the right combination of native Mediterranean ingredients. It’s lifestyle and it’s things we can work into our own lives, sometimes easily, sometimes with a little work. This offers an accessible exploration into how we can live longer lives of higher quality.” —Nichole

to Dye For: How toxic fashion is making us sick and how we can fight back by Alden Wicker

“We recently explored Alden Wicker’s thoroughly reported book, which takes an aggressive look at the fast fashion industry and its impact on our health and planet. It truly is a critical read for everyone.” —Stacey

The PrimaFoodie Guide to Coconut Water

Coconut water, the cloudy-clear liquid found inside the coconut fruit, is now found… everywhere. A staple in mocktails and smoothies, it also serves as a quenching drink. Some love to cook and bake with it. Others love it for its amount of natural electrolytes, like magnesium and potassium. It tastes mildly sweet and coconut-y and is low in natural sugars.

The rub here is that there are tons of coconut waters available, and some aren't as great as others. Certain varieties contain sneaky added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and coloring. Many are made from concentrate. The best source of coconut water, bar none, is straight from the source. Many health food stores and restaurants offer organic fresh young coconuts that you can tap into to source the refreshing liquid. But when the whole fruit isn’t an option, some bottle versions offer a solid second option. 

So in the quest to find the best—and cleanest and freshest—bottled coconut waters, we tried the most popular ones on the shelf and ranked them according to purity and flavor. 

Editor’s Note: We recommend only these specific products, not the companies’ entire offerings. 

Our Top 4 Coconut Water Picks

Harmless Harvest

What we love most about Harmless Harvest are the company’s strict organic and social standards. Every coconut it sources comes from farmers in Thailand that follow sustainable and certified organic methods. Plus, the water, which is unpasteurized and unadulterated, tastes incredible. Clean and lightly fruity, it comes from the Nam Hom variety of coconut, which is a particularly fragrant and tasty variety. (An interesting note: Some Harmless Harvest coconut waters have a pink tinge. This is because natural antioxidants interact with light after it's been sourced and bottled, causing some to eventually turn color before you drink it. Essentially, it’s a natural marker of purity.)

Thrive Organic Coconut Water

Thrive continues to be a real player in the sustainable, conscious, organic food market. This coconut water boasts such a clean and light taste that it registers less as coconut water and more as a fruity drink. Still, it’s a top pick for its organic roots, zero added sugar, and drinkability. 

Real Coco Organic Pure Coconut Water

Like Harmless Harvest, Real Coco prides itself on only using certified organic coconuts, which it sources from Vietnam. There is no added sugar, coloring, or thickeners. It has a mild taste that’s more coconut-y than the others. 

Cadia Organic Coconut Water

With its super refreshing taste and zero added sugars, Cadia comes in as another PrimaFavorite. We value that it comes from young coconuts, which tend to taste nuttier than other varieties, and only certified organic sources. 

Secondary Picks

If you cannot find the above, the following land as secondary picks in the instance you’re vying for a coconut-y quench but lacking in options. 

Vita Coconut Water

We fully get behind the social impact of Vita Coconut. The team is aiming to increase the annual yield of coconut farmers in Asia, who fall victim to poor working conditions and extractive business practices. The taste of this water is super light and clean. However, there is a trace amount of added sugar.

C20 Coconut Water

While we do love this CO2 for its pure flavor, we’re hard-pressed to get totally behind this because of the trace amounts of added sugars. It sips mild, is not too sweet, and contains no fillers or coloring. This is a better option than others, but still not a top choice.

Taste Nirvana

It’s barely sweet, which we love, and has a thicker feel. But Taste Nirvana does contain “coconut essence” and a slight amount of added sugar, both of which makes us pause. Like C20, this is a better option than many others out there, and easy to find, but it’s not the purest.

10-Minute Bliss, an Eye-Opening Documentary, and More PrimaFavorites

We’re always looking to inspiring brands, services, projects, and changemakers that make life more beautiful. Here’s a look at what’s educating and intriguing us this fall.

(And if you love what you find here, be sure to check out all of our PrimaFavorites—and more!—in the newly opened PrimaShop.)

PrimaFavorites Autumn 2021 Edition

Green Chef

“I recently subscribed to a weekly meal-kit home delivery. As someone new to home cooking, I find the recipes easy to follow, especially because some items are already proportioned. This makes cooking less intimidating and decidedly more enjoyable for a beginner like me.” —Emila Akrapovic, Associate Marketing Project Manager

Balmuda Toaster

“A game-changer. This toaster uses steam technology to create the perfect flavor, texture, and aroma for every type of bread. The science is in the use of steam, which heats more rapidly than air and locks in the bread’s inner moisture, leaving the surface toasted to a golden brown finish with a moist inside. It has five specific modes to cater to whatever you are toasting or baking. The result is breads and pastries that smell, taste, and feel like they’re fresh out of the oven.” —Nichole Perkins, Founder and CEO

Wilding Gua Sha

“Lately, I’ve really been into Gua Sha, a traditional Chinese beauty technique. I use the Wilding Empress stone to give myself a 10-minute mini facial. It boosts circulation, helps with lymphatic drainage, and even de-puffs swollen eyes. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and sneak in some relaxation and self-care time.” —Adrienne Levy, Creative Director

‘The Next Thing You Eat’ on HULU"

“In this brilliant documentary series, David Chang, the lauded chef and revolutionary behind the Momofuku restaurant group, is looking ahead at what our experience with our food, as well as the means of how it’s made, will be like in the future. In the first episode, Chang explores how our food gets into our homes, be it by automated robots in Hollywood or via dabbawala, a cyclist-run delivery service in India. He takes a close look at automation and the role machines—both large and small—will have on our food system at large. This is merely the surface of what Chang explores and I can’t wait to see what else he reveals. I’m grateful for how both fascinated and uncomfortable I felt watching this. Chang is asking the questions about our global corporate food system that need to be asked.” —Stacey Lindsay, Editorial Director 

Radical Candor by Kim Scott

“This book is a must-read read for all CEOs, execs, and bosses—women and men alike. Kim Scott covers personal relationships, gender, politics, and much more. Her message—to care deeply and challenge directly—is so relevant.” —Nichole Perkins

P.F. Candle Co.

“I love P.F. Candle Co.’s candles, especially their Los Angeles scent which is not too overpowering. Their candles are 100 percent soy wax based, paraben-free, and phthalate-free—and I love how they also donate a portion of their profits to charities.” —Emila Akrapovic

10-Inch Dutch Oven

“This is a true one-pot pot. Right now I’m making vegetable noodle soup in it: Sear your meat, sauté your vegetables, pour the bone broth over it. Bon appétit.” —Nichole Perkins

Faherty Paloma Duster

“I use this sweater as a lounge robe around the house and with a simple jeans and t-shirt around town.  It is so warm and cozy. Although I live in LA, it has a very Aspen vibe to it, which makes me feel like I’m in the mountains.” —Adrienne Levy

Levels Blood Glucose Monitor

“The most interesting things I’m learning from this monitor are: How many different foods cause a blood sugar spike for me. (And wow, portion size really does matter!) What stress does to blood sugar. And the impact of movement, like walking after carb-heavy meals, cannot be underestimated.” —Nichole Perkins

Game-Changing Clean Products, Incredible Heroines, and More PrimaFavorites

Whether it’s discovering a new inclusive cookbook author or reaching for our tried-and-true clean products, we’re always looking to inspiring brands, projects, and people that make life more beautiful. Here’s a look at what we’re currently coveting, exploring, trying, and genuinely enjoying at PrimaFoodie.

PrimaFavorites: Summer 2021 Edition

School of Lunch Training Academy: “This new cooking academy is top of my list for summer fun. It is an investment, for sure, but a worthwhile one.” —Nichole Perkins, Founder and CEO

Jojoba Oil by Cliganic: “I used this oil all throughout my pregnancy and I’m still using it. I swear it’s why I didn’t get stretch marks—or at least part of the reason. Cliganic stands by using only clean, organic, natural oils and ingredients in their products, so there’s nothing added or potentially harmful.” —Adrienne Levy, Creative Director

Lorena, Light-Footed Woman Short Documentary: “Lorena is an ultra-marathon runner who lives in the mountainous Chihuahua region in Mexico. She has become well-known for winning national and international marathons—always running in her skirt and sandals. Lorena’s determination and simple love for running is what makes her story so refreshing and inspiring. This documentary is a gentle reminder that our passion and love for what we do is sometimes the best thing we can wear.“ —Emila Akrapovic, Associate Marketing Project Manager

Imperfect Foods: “The USDA estimates between 30 and 40 percent of our food supply is wasted. This is horrific considering the plight of food insecurity and the need for better access to nutritious meals. The team at Imperfect Foods is on the front lines fighting food waste. They corral rejected “ugly” produce, imperfect clean self-care items, excess inventory, and undervalued goods from local grocery stores and health food markets. You shop the site just like a regular market and it gets shipped directly to you in a recyclable box. And you generally spend around 30 percent less than you would at a regular grocer. While I aim to shop for all my produce at the farmers market, Imperfect Produce makes an excellent option for filling in pantry needs and making sure perfectly good organic treats, rice, and even nuts don't go wasted. “ —Stacey Lindsay, Editorial Director

Augustinus Bader: “I received this gem in my stocking this last year. It’s a clean version of a fancy face cream. I like ‘The Cream’ for Los Angeles and more humid climates like Tennessee and Texas, and ‘The Rich Cream’ for extremely dry climates like Utah and Colorado.” —Nichole

Mindful Goods Mesh Produce Bags: “I found that most of my plastic use came from using plastic produce bags at the grocery store, so I sought out reusable bags to bring with me to the market. These mesh bags come in three different sizes and they are easy to wash since they are made with cotton.” —Emila

Round Beach Towel: “I love round beach towels, there’s just something about the shape that makes me feel more elegant- These by Serena and Lily are especially comfy.” —Adrienne

Shhhowercap: “I’m a big fan of anything that serves both form and function. This shower cap is chic and looks good in your shower while it’s hanging, and it only takes a few minutes to dry. It’s waterproof, antibacterial, anti-humidity, machine-washable, and big enough to cover long hair in a top knot. The rubber grip around the hairline doesn’t ever stretch and wear out. Made of a patented fabric that feels better than plastic, these caps never wear out, which makes them sustainable.” —Nichole

Kuumba Made Amber & Sandalwood Fragrance Oil: “This oil-based scent is warm and sweet. I use the petite roll-on, but they also have up to 4oz sizes. This is my go-to fragrance because it’s natural and not overwhelming. A little goes a long way. I love how Kuumba made products are centered around creating natural skin care products that soothe, heal, and excite the senses.“ —Emila

Rosewater Spray: “I love a good rosewater mist—especially when I’m at the beach!” —Adrienne

‘Alice Waters Says People Who Call Her Elitist Just Don’t Get It’: “Alice Waters has unequivocally changed the way I approach food. From eating at her legendary restaurant Chez Panisse (and at her former petit eatery Cafe Fanny, a dreamlike spot) to reading her many cookbooks, I’ve found both inspiration and solace in her words about food accessibility and equity and seasonal cooking. Today, at 77, she’s just released a new book, a food manifesto of sorts. This New York Times article captures her fervor for food education and her constant fight to disabuse people of the notion that eating well and organic means spending a lot of money. “ —Stacey

Ursa Major Face Wipes: “Clean, soothing, and hydrating, these natural face wipes are my favorites to bring while traveling. It’s a quick way to refresh while on-the-go.” —Adrienne