New to the organic scene? Here’s a quick guide to health food markets in and around Towson.

Our diets have a huge impact on our health, possibly more so than any other factor. Eating clean, whole, organic foods can help cure disease, and increase energy, productivity and longevity. 

There are several health food markets in and around Towson. This week, we are looking at MOM’s Organic Market in Timonium. 

MOM’s Organic Market

Location: 30 West Ridgely Road, Timonium

Phone: 443-921-1390

Website: www.momsorganicmarket.com

Hours: Monday through Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Store philosophy: The store's assistant manager, Gustavo Diaz, said, “MOM’s is committed to restoring the environment by carrying products that don’t harm the environment.” This includes seafood, which MOM’s guarantees is “sustainable,” meaning none of their seafood contributes to overfishing and environmental hazards. 

According the its website, MOM’s stocks an "overall higher percentage of organic items than any other major grocery chain and sells only 100 percent USDA Certified Organic Produce." 

The Timonium store, which opened earlier this year, has an expanded selection of bulk items, such as Fair Trade coffee, grains, organic herbs, nuts and dried fruits in order to reduce packaging waste. Sections of the store are dedicated to raw foods, gluten-free products and locally raised, hormone-free meats. 

According to Diaz, the Timonium store operates solely on wind power, which MOM’s purchases directly from BGE. They also recycle plastic bags, ink cartridges, cell phones, batteries and other recyclable items. The recycling bins are outside the store next to the door.  

Popular brands include: Kiss My Face, Blisoma, Burt's Bees, Avalon, Dr. Hausaka, Garden of Life, New Chapter Organics, and MOM’s brand items such as milk, cereal and baked goods.  

Pluses: MOM’s carries everything from fresh produce and seafood to pet supplies, probiotics, essential oils and beauty products. It’s a nice, open market. There’s plenty of room to walk with a cart and the produce looks excellent. There is ample free parking in the Yorkridge Shopping Center. The sales associates are knowledgeable and friendly. 

Minuses: MOM’s doesn’t carry water in an effort to reduce waste. Instead, the store sells filtration systems and reusable water containers. 

Costs

• MOM’s brand organic whole milk costs $5.69 per gallon.
• Ezekiel Bread ranges from $2.79 to $4.69 depending on the type.

Join us next week as we break down the next store on our list, The Fresh Market, which recently opened a store on Dulaney Valley Road in Towson.