Industry veterans Daniela and Chris Jensen witnessed firsthand the flaws in our food system. They observed how it prioritized cost savings and speed at the expense of food quality. Recognizing the need for a better approach, they, along with their longtime friend and colleague Sotiris Kitrilakis, set their sights on a grander vision to do what they could to improve the food in our food system.
By paying attention to the smallest details, refusing to take shortcuts, and embracing the power of nature, they discovered that—when treated with respect—nature rewards abundantly. Daniela, Chris, and Sotiris utilized their extensive connections with small, sustainable farms in Greece and Turkey to establish a supply chain that surpasses all expectations.
Finally, Sotiris, an expert in the art and science of fermentation, helped craft the all-natural and ancient fermentation recipes and 9-month curing process for their olives, capers, and peppers. And just like that, Big Picture Foods came into existence.
Regenerative & Sustainable Practices
Daniela Jensen, Co-Founder and Head of Brand, sums up Big Picture’s approach to agricultural production: “There’s no need to cut corners. When you work with nature, she gives back abundantly.”
Understanding this, Big Picture Foods is able to produce incredible food that has been “grown right, and prepared clean.” The farms and groves that supply Big Picture Foods practice “the old style” of natural farming, and have never practiced anything else. They use no chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. They welcome the weeds for the pollinators they attract. In processing, Big Picture Foods uses only natural and ancient fermentation methods with only four ingredients: water, salt, and kosher wine vinegar—meaning there’s no need for additives or chemical curing. Everything Big Picture Foods produces is certified through the Regenerative Organic Certification and produced on small, regenerative farms in Turkey and Greece.
Presently, the farming and production practices they’re using include:
- No-till soil management
- Biodynamic management
- Perennial crops
- No pesticide use, ever
- No herbicide use, ever
- Natural fermentation
- Maintenance of Regenerative Organic Certification standards