When Joe Zich launched 309 Cultures three years ago, he took his passion for organic fermented foods to a whole new level. Under this banner, Zich produces and sells fermented vegetables such as kimchi, sauerkraut and Purple Kurry Kraut—a signature flavor made of fermented red cabbage and beets. Unlike most commercial krauts, his products are not pasteurized, leaving their natural probiotics and live enzymes to work their magic: improving the digestive system and enhancing the immune system, among other health benefits. Today, jars of 309 Cultures can be found at more than a dozen locations in Illinois and Indiana, as well as farmers markets throughout the region.
