Jackson, Mississippi: A Sweet Story of Local Businesses
This week in Jackson, Mississippi, we got a delightful peek into the heart of local entrepreneurship on the Freshly Picked podcast. This particular episode, titled “Value-Added and Sugar-Coated: Turning Crops into Sweet Success,” featured two awesome business owners who are making waves with their unique approaches to Mississippi specialty crops. It was a vivid reminder of how creativity and community spirit can turn challenges into sweet, sweet success!
Sweet Potatoes: From Misfit to Marvel
Jan Cook-Houston, the owner of Sweet Potato Sweets in the quaint town of Vardaman, shared the fascinating story behind her business. It all began back in 1996 when her mother and a couple of other sweet potato farmers’ wives decided that literally no sweet potato should go to waste. They saw potential in the imperfect, misshapen sweet potatoes that local stores wouldn’t accept and figured they could whip up some delicious treats instead.
Jan couldn’t be prouder of her mother’s legacy, emphasizing that “sweet potatoes taste the same whether they’re pretty-shaped or not.” With this ethos in mind, Sweet Potato Sweets has become well-known for mouthwatering products ranging from sweet potato flavored pies to hearty bread and even savory sausage balls. Who knew that a misfit potato could lead to so many delicious options?
Low-Carb Goodness with a Local Twist
On the other side of the spectrum, we have Kirk Hutchinson, the founder of Power of Almond Bakery in Starkville. Kirk launched his business right in the thick of the pandemic in 2020, and he brought forth a vision that was close to his heart—creating low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly treats. He navigated his own dietary restrictions and wanted to offer tasty options that wouldn’t compromise health.
Kirk illuminated the importance of using locally grown ingredients, specifically highlighting Mississippi’s fabulous pecans and blueberries, which he incorporates into his baked goods. Now, he takes immense joy in crafting healthy yet scrumptious pastries and snacks that cater to a growing market of health-conscious consumers. ”I love creating things that people can enjoy without guilt,” he said, and it’s clear that his passion drives his work.
A Bigger Picture
These two entrepreneurs are just a glimpse of the vibrant tapestry of local agriculture and business in Mississippi. The creativity and determination they showcase not only reflect their personal journeys but are also a testament to the state’s rich agricultural roots. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet or healthful, consider supporting these local heroes who are making a difference one sweet potato and almond flour treat at a time!
