Malta Market 32 Grand Re-Opening: Meet the Team!

We have an awesome team over at our Malta, NY location. We’re excited to give them some shine. Through their hard work and efforts, we are able to re-open their store to a brand more Market 32! Learn more about our Malta, NY roster.

Store Manager: Paul Colwell

Shortly after graduating High School, Paul entered the US Navy. Upon completion of his service, he knew he needed to gain employment. Pondering his future in the Fall of 1990, he walked into the old Lenox, MA Price Chopper and put in his application. Paul was hired on the spot as a Part-Time Front End teammate. Originally, Paul had no aspirations of a career in retail, but was given the opportunity to train in other areas around the store and didn’t miss the chance. He learned produce, seafood, grocery, and receiving and from there became hooked on all the ins and outs of the daily operations of the store!

Paul’s first Full-Time opportunity was in the old Lee, MA Price Chopper as “third man on night crew.” Over the next 10 years, he held the positions of Assistant Night Manager, Night Manager, Assistant Grocery Manager, and Grocery Manager, expanding his experience over 18 different locations throughout Vermont and Massachusetts over that time. In 2003, Paul was promoted to Store Manager of the old Springfield, VT Price Chopper. From there, he went on manage our stores in Manchester, VT, Essex, VT, Barre, VT, New Lebanon, NH, Rutland, VT, and eventually, Malta, NY in the Winter of 2020.

All told, Paul’s Price Chopper journey has taken him to some type of work in 29 different stores and locations. He says he’s fortunate to have worked for any organization whose afforded him the many opportunities to learn, grown, and develop, all while enjoying a career he is passionate about. Paul says, “I have spent the last 32 years blessed to be a part of so many wonderful teams, and to have worked with teammates that are absolutely the best in the industry. Lastly, I am humbled by all those who were gracious in passing their knowledge onto me.”

We’re excited to have Paul and his team leading the way as we re-open the Malta store to a brand new Market 32!

Co-Manager: Jodi Clain

Jodi joined the Price Chopper team in 1996 as a Part-Time Deli teammate. She’s held positions of Assistant Team Leader and Deli Team Lead in our Saratoga Springs, NY, Clifton Park, NY, and Market Bistro locations, earning several awards for her leadership along the way. As Co-Manager of our Malta store Jodi exemplifies both a strong work ethic and outstanding leadership abilities.

General Merchandise Team Lead: Bob Pavone

Bob began his Price Chopper career in 1982 as a Part-Time teammate. After a stint as Full-Time Night Crew in 1989, Bob joined the old Hudson, NY Price Chopper as Assistant General Merchandise Manager. In 1990, he was promoted to General Merchandise Team Lead and has held the position for the past 32 years. As a leader in General Merchandise Bob is tremendous, but he’s an even more outstanding human being. Regardless of what Bob has in front of him on a daily basis, you’ll find him helping out his fellow teammates in other departments, all while fulfilling the needs of guests, and even making repairs on broken equipment. Bob continuously exemplifies compassion for others, and his selfishness makes him a valued member of our team. We’re proud to put the spotlight on his 40 years of distinguished service!

Store Manager Paul Colwell and Co-Manager Jodi Clain
General Merchandise Team Lead Bob Pavone
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Tortilla Chip Sheet Pan Nachos

Original Nachos and Nachos Today

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

Happy National Nachos Day to our nacho-loving customers! Since National Nachos Day falls on a Sunday this year, what better way to celebrate than serving Nachos at your Sunday football get together! Whether you prefer just cheese on your nachos or loading every topping possible, there is truly no right or wrong way to eat them.

How these cheesy, fried tortillas came to be so popular is actually quite the story. Dating back to 1940, a group of women who were the wives of soldiers stationed in Eagle Pass, Texas went to the Victory Club in Piedras looking for a bite to eat. Unfortunately, they had arrived after hours, but Ignacio (Nacho) Anaya would not turn the women away. He whipped up whatever he could find in the kitchen to serve to these ladies, which included Colby cheese, jalapenos, and fried tortillas. The women loved this meal so much that they called it “Nacho’s Special” and asked for more. Anaya added the dish to his menu, where they flourished with his customers. Later, Anaya opened a restaurant called “Nacho’s.”

Over time, people began to experiment with different nacho toppings. Today, some popular toppings include pulled chicken, ground beef, ground turkey, pulled pork, steak, chili, jalapenos, guacamole, cubed avocado, salsa, hot sauce, scallions, olives, lettuce, beans, corn, peppers, onions, sour cream, and cheese of course! Check out some of our favorite nacho recipes for the big game!

Tortilla Chip Street Pan Nachos: The simple nachos we know and love! While this recipe only calls for four ingredients, you can add any toppings that you see fit!

Smashed Cauliflower Nachos: A spin on traditional nachos, these Smashed Cauliflower Nachos are exploding with flavor!

Irish Nachos with Crispy Brussel Sprouts: Brussel sprouts in your nachos? Don’t let that scare you. They are crisped in a little oil and salt to make for a delicious addition for your nachos.

Grilled Foil Chicken Nachos: These chicken nachos are sure to be a fan favorite! The chicken can be shredded or cubed depending on preference.

Enjoy!

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Diabetes and Chronic Illness - Fresh Tips on Food Safety

Ellie Wilson

MS, RDN Manager, Lifestyles and Wellness

Living well with a chronic health issue like diabetes is challenging. Prevention is key – enjoying foods that support good blood sugar control and following medication directions enhance long-term health and quality of life. To maximize the benefits of better food choices, be sure good food safety practices are on the menu.

The immune system protects health best when your body is well-nourished. Following food safety and nutrition care guidance should support good diabetes management and healthy immune systems. Diabetes may impact immune function by weakening immune system response, and slowing down digestion, allowing bacteria on food to multiply. Once infection has begun, it can be very difficult to treat. Adults 65 and older with diabetes can be especially vulnerable. Check out the tips and tools you can use to ensure you and your family can navigate successfully prevent food safety concerns.

Know Foodborne Illness Symptoms and Get Medical Care Quickly

Foodborne Illness Symptoms can worsen diabetes/all chronic illness symptoms, including elevating blood sugar and risk of dehydration. If you suspect foodborne illness, call your healthcare provider, or seek emergency care immediately.

Smart Shopping

  • Many shoppers use recycled bags for packing groceries. Be sure to wipe these out or wash them each time you unpack them, with antibacterial wipes or spray and clean paper towels.
  • Meat, seafood and fresh produce should be bagged before placing in a cart or shopping bag, so they don’t become cross-contaminated. If your grocery store limits plastic bags, bring your own clean bags to place foods in – clear bags allow for scanning prices and safe handling.
  • Purchase pasteurized eggs and dairy products and use best-by and sell-by dates to ensure food purchases are fresh.
  • Read labels to be sure foods will meet your needs for enjoyment and diabetes management.

Smart Storage and Prep

  • Go directly home – if travel time is extended, use insulated bags and/or coolers to maintain food temperatures.

As soon as possible after shopping or grocery delivery, get chilled and frozen foods put away safely.

Cool tools available in the grocery store to keep food safe:

  • Clean shopping bags, reusable ice packs, insulated shopping bags, and coolers.
  • Appliance thermometer for the refrigerator – store food at 40 degrees F or lower.
  • Cooking thermometer – find temperature charts to ensure foods are cooked to safe serving temps.
  • Easy-clean plastic cutting boards (some are color-coded for meat, seafood, produce). Use clean knives and utensils while preparing foods, and do not reuse utensils, bowls or plates that have had raw food contact.
  • Hot, soapy water, bleach and antibacterial wipes assist with cleaning cutting boards, utensils, and shopping bags.
  • Moisturizing hand soap – keeping hands clean and skin in good condition are both important to diabetes management. BONUS – Good handwashing reduces risk of of flu, pneumonia, COVID-19, and other high-risk infections for those with chronic health conditions.
  • Store raw and cooked foods safely in regularly cleaned designated refrigerator sections. If any items are damaged or have any indication of spoilage, don’t hesitate to discard. Follow the food safety mantra of “When in doubt, throw it out!”

Stay up to date on food safety issues by checking the webpage, and downloading the food safety app. Find more resources there and at the Partnership for Food Safety website.

References

 https://extension.umd.edu/resource/food-safety-persons-diabetes

https://www.fda.gov/food/people-risk-foodborne-illness/food-safety-older-adults-and-people-cancer-diabetes-hivaids-organ-transplants-and-autoimmune

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Diabetes - Shopping Well On A Budget

Ellie Wilson

MS, RD Senior Nutritionist

Everyone is on a budget, which impacts most purchases, including the food we buy.  For those managing diabetes, smart food choices are recognized as key to overall wellness. Balancing the budget and balancing health is possible, with a few insights and a little planning.

Planning is the first hurdle – everyone is so busy; we find it easy to ignore the concept. However, most of us plan “accidentally” – we have a set routine for meals/foods we eat throughout the week, as well as typical items we buy or prepare for lunch, dinner and snacks. It changes seasonally – salads in summer, with meat on the grill, soup in the fall and winter, as well as air fryer/Instant Pot or slow cooker meals. The first step to planning is just putting your “usuals’ down on paper, with dollar amounts you usually spend (or the budget amount you are trying to stick to!) Then, determine if there are a few tweaks you can make to put better-for-you in the basket on your budget.

It may be tough to find a good starting place. If you have diabetes, or are at risk, personalized nutrition care from a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist (RDN) is the gold standard. If you haven’t seen a dietitian in the last year, consider getting a referral from your healthcare provider. Your health needs change over time, along with research and food items available, medications – make it personal “policy” to meet with the RDN at least once per year. Check your grocery store for nutrition information and resources – like the Know Your Colors nutrition guides at Price Chopper/Market 32, and the Diabetes AdvantEdge program Diabetes AdvantEdge program at the store pharmacies. Food and medications are increasingly important to health and care, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the resources your grocery store offers.

Tips and Hacks

Hate to cook on Monday? A Price Chopper Rotisserie Chicken could be a problem-solver. Serve with a scoop of frozen broccoli microwaved with a small potato – done, healthy, fast, and cheap. Both the frozen broccoli (as well as any other frozen vegetable or fruit) and the potato are smart/budget-buster choices for eating well.

Breakfast is essential to blood sugar management. Eggs are an inexpensive source of good protein, and easy to mix up with leftover/frozen vegetables for an omelet. Like toast with that? Check the shelf tag or online for Carb Smart choices and read labels to be sure they meet your needs. Carb Smart, Low Sodium, Heart Smart and more tags can be found on the shelf and online – you can plan your smart shopping in a snap. Enjoy eating well when you shop at Price Chopper and Market 32!

                

Shop Carb Smart!

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Tips for A Happy and Food Safe Halloween

BOO! Here it comes again, the official (unofficial) holiday of Halloween! There is no doubt, it is beloved by children and adults alike. The costumes, decorations and freaky/fun tricks and treats are wickedly delightful for those who participate before colder weather changes activity opportunities. To ensure it is fun for everyone, set expectations – your goblins and ghouls should know the food safety rules ahead of time to set the stage for happy smiles versus scowls and howls. Here are some ‘tricks” for caregivers hoping for a howling good time!

  1. Eat before you go out – some great Halloween treat ideas to set the stage are right here (with spooky music!) on Price Chopper YouTube and Pinterest boards. That will make it easier to create the plan that parents/guardians must check items before eating. We have treats for adults too – pumpkin everything and fall favorites to fuel your fun.
  2. Children should be taught/shown not to accept treats that aren’t commercially wrapped. Throw away anything that is torn, has pinholes, or looks unusual in any way. Fresh fruit, if accepted, should be carefully checked and washed before eating.
  3. If your child has a food allergy, you already know that treats are tricky. Verify Epi-pens are not expired and are readily available. Always check the labels of each item. Some homes may have a teal-colored pumpkin to signal they have some treats without some allergens, but adults must still check the individual items before eating. The same goes for gluten free candy – The Celiac Disease Foundation has published their 2022 Gluten Free Halloween Candy list – you can download and print the pdf here.
  4. Ages and stages – some candies are choking hazards for smaller children. Gum, hard candies, peanuts and even small toys could be a concern.
  5. How much and how often should be part of the plan – a national poll shows 78% of parents plan for about two pieces of candy per day. That helps children learn candy can be part of eating well.
  6. Flashlights, candy, party supplies and more are all at your local store and online waiting for you to create a “monster” good time. Happy Halloween!

BWAH HA HA HAAAAA!!!!!!!

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home.grown. Locally Grown Apples Sold Here!

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

It is no secret that September and October are the prime months for apple picking. Whether you are baking apple pie, making applesauce, or just want a sweet snack, apples are certainly your go-to this fall season. Here at Price Chopper and Market 32, we are proud to partner with a wide variety of apple orchards, farms and cider mills in our region, to bring you the best of the Northeast each year. These include the four farms highlighted below. Not only are our Market 32 tote apples orchard-grown here in our region, but our Market 32 Apple Cider is milled in New York from Northeast-grown apples! The next time you pick up apples from your local Price Chopper and Market 32, you will know that these apples are home grown.

Hudson River Fruit Distributors: Milton, NY

It all began in 1932 when first generation Isador Albinder started selling apples out of a pushcart in Brooklyn. When his son Harold Albinder joined him in 1963, the Hudson River Fruit Distributors was founded. Now for almost 60 years, the Hudson River Fruit Distributors have continued to grow their family business. They are proud to have multiple generations working hard to carry on the family legacy, and their goal is to leave the world a better place than they found it.

Sunrise Orchards, Cornwall VT

Located in Cornwall, Vermont, Sunrise Orchards has been 100% solar powered since 2016. Their mission statement is as follows: 

“At Sunrise Orchards our mission is to grow an amazing apple – an apple which puts a proclamation into the eater’s eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. We do this through a commitment to quality, the environment, and community that embody our forward-thinking Vermont farm.”

Be sure to click on the “About” section on their website to see weekend lunch specials and other events throughout the month of October!

Patch Orchards, Lebanon NH

At Patch Orchards in Lebanon, New Hampshire, eight generations have carried the legacy of this wonderful orchard. Not only do they sell a variety of produce, but many maple products are also sold. These include maple syrup, maple candies, pure maple sugar, and maple cream. There are many family fun activities to do while you visit Patch Orchards, so be sure to check out their website below.

Beak and Skiff, Lafayette NY

It all began in 1911 when Andrew Beak, a dairy farmer, and George Skiff, an onion farmer, met at a farmer’s market. The two teamed up to establish the very popular Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards. While many harsh weather conditions challenged their business over the years, the two men never stopped doing what they loved. Today, five generations have passed and Beak and Skiff is a booming business. Here you can find apple picking, cider tasting, a very large gift shop, and a café for apple cider donuts and many lunch items. Beak and Skiff Apple Orchard has something for the whole family!

Unsure of what to make with all your apples? Check out some of our recipes below! 

Apple Pie with Homemade Crust: What is fall time without an apple pie? Try this recipe with our very own homemade crust recipe!

Chicken & Apple Kale Slaw Wrap: Try this quick and easy wrap that is bursting with flavor! Be sure to buy our Market 32 Grab n’ Go rotisserie chicken in the food court section.

No-Churn Brown-Butter Apple Pie Ice Cream: What a better way for the family to spend time together after apple picking than to make homemade ice cream! Try out this recipe above. 

Cinnamon Waffles with Apple Pecan Topping: Sunday morning breakfast is served with this warm and hearty cinnamon waffle breakfast. Be sure to use your fresh apples for this meal.

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PICS Spice & Everything Nice!

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

Life can be hectic, especially with the kids back to school. Running from practices to school events and more, the thought of cooking each night may feel daunting. If you find yourself making the same types of dinners and running out of ideas to spice up your next meal, we can help. Price Chopper and Market 32 are very excited to announce 10 new PICS spices that will be released to all locations starting today, October 10th! We have a spice for even the pickiest of eaters, so take a look below to discover what’s new to add more flavor in your next meal.

Spice #1: PICS Guacamole Seasoning

Size: 3.2 oz.

Homemade guacamole paired with your favorite PICS tortilla chips…what could be better! This new seasoning is a flavorful mixture of zesty lime, garlic, cilantro, and jalapeno.

Spice #2: PICS Street Corn Seasoning

Size: 5oz.

Picture this: It is a warm summer evening, the barbeque is grilling, and corn on the cob is underway. Butter the corn on the cob and add this Street Corn Seasoning on top. It will be a staple for our corn on the cob lovers!

Spice #3: PICS Smoked Butcher’s Blend Seasoning

Size: 5.9oz

Do you love smoked meats? Then this is the spice for you! This smokey and peppery seasoning is perfect for any foods ranging from steak and chicken to potatoes and mixed veggies. The best part is this spice is made from all natural ingredients.

 

Spice #4: PICS Butcher’s Salt & Pepper Seasoning

Size: 5.9oz

At Price Chopper and Market 32, we take pride in giving our customers the finest meats. Next time you are at your local store, be sure to pick up your favorite meat source and pair it with this new Butcher’s Salt & Pepper Seasoning. Sometimes a great quality piece of meat needs nothing more than premium salt and coarsely ground pepper.

 

Spice #5: PICS Chicago Chop Seasoning

Size: 6.4oz

This new spice is a must-try for our pork lovers out there! This savory and smoky taste will have you going back for seconds!

 

Spice #6: PICS Mediterranean Citrus Olive Oil Spice

Size: 1oz

This Mediterranean spice will add an immense flavor to just about any dish. You may be wondering what exactly this spice tastes like. This Greek blend is a mixture of crunchy Hudson Valley salt, dried garlic, black pepper, oregano, coriander, thyme, dried onion, spices, and lemon oil. This is a must try!

Spice #7: PICS Lemon Pepper Thyme Seasoning

Size: 6.3oz

Our new Lemon Pepper Thyme Seasoning subtly brings out the delicious flavors of chicken and fish. Another fun way to use this seasoning would be in melted butter or tossed in pasta.

Spice #8: PICS Spicy Italian Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Spices

Size: .8oz

Your pasta night just became even better with our new PICS Spicy Italian Roasted Garlic Olive Oil Seasoning! Include this spice in your meatballs, pork chops, or sprinkle on your toasted bread and butter. The aroma in your house will be divine!

Spice #9: PICS Salt-Free All-Purpose Seasoning

Size: 3.9oz

You read that right – A seasoning without salt! Be sure to grab this new spice to amplify the taste of your next meat and veggie dinner, just without the salt.

Last but certainly not least…

Spice #10: PICS Spicy Italian Sun-Dried Tomato Olive Oil Spices

Size: 1.2oz

This new spice is extremely versatile and if you like spicy food, this is the spice for you! Add this on your chicken, mix into ground beef or sprinkle into your olive oil for dipping bread.

Ready try these new spices? Head to your local Price Chopper and Market 32 today, October 10th to try a few…or all of them! 

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National Taco Day!

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

Did you know that tacos actually have their own day? Today, October 4th just happens to be that day! Here at Price Chopper and Market 32, we have everything you need to get creative for your Taco Tuesday tonight. The beauty is, there is no right or wrong way to make your taco, and they can be filled with just about anything and everything! First, let’s explore some interesting facts about tacos.

The origin of the taco dates back as early as the 18th century, but the taco itself was not introduced in the United States until 1905. During the 18th century, tacos in Mexico were known to be a food of the working class which included miners. Tacos were known as “tacos de minero” which means “miner’s taco.”

The tacos that were consumed during this time were very different from what we know today. Tacos were originally made with a spicy filling, not beef or chicken that is commonly used today. Interestingly enough, the hard taco shell we know and love did not become popular in the United States until the 1940s. Before then, a soft flour tortilla was used. Today, there are so many different combinations to create tacos. While some people prefer beef or chicken, others may choose fish or no meat source at all. Check out some of our delicious taco recipes below to celebrate this year’s National Taco Day!

Foil-Pack Avocado Ranch Chicken Tacos: Loaded with fresh ingredients, these tacos are tasty and filling. Be sure to grab Market 32 Boneless & Skinless Chicken Breast at your nearest location. 

Grilled Fish Tacos with Cauliflower Tortilla: Not feeling a traditional taco shell? Don’t worry, we have you covered! Try these tacos with a delicious cauliflower tortilla.

Chipotle Ground Beef Street Tacos: Beef, cheese, salsa and more! Make sure to grab your choice of Market 32 ground beef for these tacos. 

Black Bean, Quinoa, & Grilled Veggie Tacos: No meat? No problem! These tacos are bursting with flavor and easy to make!

Happy National Taco Day!

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Cold Weather Comfort Meals!

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

For many of us, we have a love/hate relationship with the changing seasons. Even if you ski or snowboard, there may be days where you just need to be warm, whether that is curling up under the covers, binge watching your favorite show, or making a delicious comfort food meal.

What exactly are “comfort foods?” Comfort foods are any type of rich or indulgent foods that bring a sense of happiness and security. In fact, the Oxford Dictionary added this term in 1997!

No two people are the same, therefore, comfort foods can be different for everyone. For some, this may be indulging in an ice cream sundae, loaded fries, chili, or even a big bowl of macaroni and cheese. The best part is, there is no right or wrong! Here at Price Chopper and Market 32, we want to give you some delicious comfort meals to try out this fall and winter. Check out a few warm recipes that will make the cold weather seem not so bad!

Baked Beef & Lamb Meatballs: With a few key ingredients like beef, lamb, basil, and marinara sauce, your taste buds will be jumping for joy!

Gourmet White Mac & Cheese: Nothing screams, “Comfort Meal!” like this creamy, filling Gourmet White Mac & Cheese. 

Cheeseburger Soup: Sure, cheeseburgers on the grill are great, but what about cheeseburger soup? This is a fun and different comfort meal to add to your recipes.

PB&J Stuffed French Toast: Take your French toast to the next level! Be sure to grab your favorite PICS peanut butter and PICS jelly the next time you head to your local store.

Oven-Baked Nashville Sliders: Change up your normal chicken sandwiches for lunch and dinner with these Oven-Baked Nashville Sliders!

Fall Chicken Pot Pie: This chicken pot pie is warm, hearty, and extremely satisfying. This meal is a must-try!

While the temperatures keep dropping, stock up on ingredients for your favorite comfort meals, or better yet, try out a new comfort meal recipe!

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Happy Organic Month!

Mia Teal

E-Commerce Marketing Department

September is Organic Month, and here at Price Chopper and Market 32 we have an abundance of organic products including produce, cereal, spices, dairy, meat, and more! If you are interested in incorporating more organic products in your recipes, then you have come to the right place. Keep reading to discover what organic products are, and new recipes with some organic ingredients to incorporate at mealtimes.

What are Organic Animals and Plants?

Organic animals and plants are fed naturally and heavily regulated by the USDA to ensure only strictly enforced methods and approved substances are used when foods are grown and processed. The USDA is the regulating agency for Organic. For plants, that would include using organic seeds, managing weeds by tillage and cultivation practices and enhancing soil health via crop rotations and cover crops. For animals, it includes using 100% organic feed and maximizing pasture/outdoor access.

At Price Chopper and Market 32, we are proud to sell Full Circle Organic products. Full Circle’s Mission Statement is as follows:

“Our mission is to change the food system by providing a healthy, fresh alternative to industrial food. Large-scale agriculture often uses pesticides, herbicides, genetic modification and employs risky monoculture practices. Fresh, organic produce tastes better, is brimming with nutrients, and preserves our soil, our water, and the entire ecosystem. That’s why Full Circle fills every box with food that’s real and genuine.”

Check out our recipes that include some organic products:

Kicked Up Green Smoothie: This recipe is packed with delicious organic produce and dairy for an energizing smoothie!

White Chicken Chili: This hearty meal is bursting with flavor! Be sure to include Full Circle Oregano as well as other Full Circle spices.

Make-Ahead Hash Brown & Egg Bake: With the kids going back to school this Hash Brown and Egg Bake will be sure to power them through the morning!

Earn 3x Bonus Points on all organic purchases through Saturday, October 1st. And be sure to use promo code ‘ORGANIC’ at checkout when shopping on the Price Chopper website for $5 off your order of $50 or more thru 10/1.