Frankfurt

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Healthy Eating and Nutrition

Guidance on accessing fresh and organic food, farmers' markets, and diet-specific eateries in Frankfurt.

Sections

1. Organic Food Options in Frankfurt

Germany has a long-standing tradition of supporting organic and sustainable agriculture, and Frankfurt is no exception. Organic food is widely available and labeled as "Bio" (short for "biologisch," meaning organic).

Where to Buy Organic Food:

  • Supermarkets with Organic Sections:

    • Rewe, Edeka, and Tegut: These mainstream supermarkets have dedicated organic sections offering fresh produce, dairy, meat, and pantry staples.
    • Alnatura: A popular organic supermarket chain in Germany with several locations in Frankfurt. They offer a wide range of certified organic products, including fresh produce, snacks, and household items.
    • Denn’s Biomarkt: Another well-known organic supermarket chain with multiple branches in Frankfurt. They focus on high-quality organic and sustainable products.

  • Specialty Organic Stores:

    • Basic Bio: A smaller organic grocery store chain with a focus on fresh, local, and seasonal products.
    • Kornmühle: A local organic store offering fresh bread, grains, and other organic essentials.

Costs:

Organic food in Frankfurt is generally 20-50% more expensive than conventional options. For example:

  • Organic apples: €3-4 per kilogram
  • Organic milk: €1.50-2 per liter
  • Organic eggs: €3-4 for a pack of 6

2. Farmers' Markets in Frankfurt

Farmers' markets are an excellent way to access fresh, seasonal, and often organic produce directly from local farmers. They are also a cultural experience, as locals often shop here for their weekly groceries.

Popular Farmers' Markets:

  • Kleinmarkthalle: Located in the city center, this indoor market is open year-round and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Many vendors sell organic and locally sourced products.
  • Konstablerwache Farmers' Market: Held every Thursday and Saturday, this is one of the largest and most popular outdoor markets in Frankfurt. You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, and artisanal products.
  • Schillermarkt: A smaller market held on Fridays near Hauptwache, offering fresh produce, flowers, and specialty foods.
  • Bornheimer Wochenmarkt: A neighborhood market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality produce.

Tips for Shopping:

  • Bring your own reusable bags, as plastic bags are not provided.
  • Arrive early for the best selection, especially for organic and seasonal items.
  • Many vendors accept cash only, so carry small denominations.

Costs:

Farmers' market prices are comparable to or slightly higher than supermarket prices, but the quality is often superior. For example:

  • Seasonal vegetables: €2-3 per kilogram
  • Fresh bread: €3-5 per loaf
  • Local honey: €6-8 per jar

3. Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants

Frankfurt has a thriving vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants catering to plant-based diets. Here are some top recommendations:

Popular Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurants:

  • Vevay: A stylish vegan restaurant offering healthy, creative dishes like Buddha bowls, vegan burgers, and smoothies.
  • Kleinmarkthalle Vegan Stalls: Several vendors in the Kleinmarkthalle offer vegan-friendly snacks and meals.
  • Aroma: A cozy vegetarian restaurant specializing in Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like falafel, hummus, and fresh salads.
  • Seven Swans: A Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant offering a fine dining experience with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.
  • Greenfoody: A casual vegan café serving smoothie bowls, salads, and plant-based desserts.

Costs:

  • Vegan/vegetarian main dishes: €10-20
  • Smoothies and juices: €4-8
  • Fine dining (e.g., Seven Swans): €80-120 per person for a multi-course meal

4. Health Food Stores

Health food stores in Frankfurt cater to those looking for specialty items like gluten-free, lactose-free, or vegan products, as well as supplements and natural remedies.

Top Health Food Stores:

  • Reformhaus: A chain of health food stores offering organic products, dietary supplements, and natural cosmetics.
  • Vitalia Reformhaus: Similar to Reformhaus, with a focus on health-conscious and dietary-specific products.
  • Bio Company: A health food store with a wide range of organic and eco-friendly products.

Costs:

  • Gluten-free bread: €3-5 per loaf
  • Plant-based milk: €2-3 per liter
  • Protein powders: €20-40 per container

5. Meal Delivery Services

If you prefer the convenience of meal delivery, Frankfurt has several options for healthy, ready-to-eat meals or meal kits.

Healthy Meal Delivery Services:

  • HelloFresh: A meal kit delivery service offering fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and recipes. They have vegetarian, vegan, and low-calorie options.
  • Marley Spoon: Similar to HelloFresh, with a focus on high-quality, seasonal ingredients.
  • FitTaste: A local meal delivery service specializing in healthy, calorie-controlled meals for fitness enthusiasts.
  • Gorillas and Flink: Quick grocery delivery apps that can bring fresh produce and healthy snacks to your doorstep within minutes.

Costs:

  • Meal kits: €5-10 per serving
  • Ready-to-eat meals: €8-15 per meal
  • Grocery delivery fees: €1-3 per order (depending on the service)

6. Local Considerations and Cultural Practices

  • Seasonal Eating: Germans value seasonal and local produce. You’ll notice that certain fruits and vegetables are only available at specific times of the year, such as asparagus ("Spargel") in spring.
  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Frankfurt residents are environmentally conscious. Bring reusable bags and containers when shopping, and recycle packaging according to local guidelines.
  • Dining Out: Tipping is customary but modest (5-10% of the bill). Many restaurants offer smaller "Mittagstisch" (lunch specials) that are both affordable and healthy.
  • Labeling: Look for the "Bio" label on products, which indicates they meet strict EU organic standards.

7. Additional Tips for Healthy Eating in Frankfurt

  • Cooking at Home: Many apartments in Frankfurt come with well-equipped kitchens, making it easy to prepare your own healthy meals. Visit local markets or organic stores for fresh ingredients.
  • Hydration: Tap water in Frankfurt is safe to drink and of high quality. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Workplace Lunches: Many offices in Frankfurt have canteens ("Kantinen") that offer healthy meal options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes.

By following this guide, you’ll have no trouble maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet while living in or visiting Frankfurt. The city’s diverse options, eco-conscious culture, and emphasis on quality make it an excellent place for healthy eating.