Merchant Spotlight: Back to Nature

It may be hard to believe, but Back to Nature has been a fixture in Downtown Cranford for 35 years. Owner Charlie Baniewicz had always been interested in health foods, and decided to give up his job working in NYC to pursue his passion. He recognized the need for a health food store in the suburbs, a place where residents could stop by, pick up products, and also receive guidance. 35 years later he has built up an incredibly loyal following, with some customers who have been frequenting the store since it first opened.

In the time Back to Nature has been in business the store has ridden the waves of various diet trends – fat-free, sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, etc. The store has also been there as changes have taken place in the health food and supplement industry. Supplements are now standardized or advertise “Guaranteed potency.” In regards to food, the quality of health food has vastly improved since Back to Nature first opened its doors. The taste is much better and the variety of foods has also increased. The selection of food the store sells is impressive – tea, soups, baking supplies, cookies, protein bars, drinks, nuts by the pound, natural peanut butter, protein powder, cereal, frozen foods, and NJ honey are just some of the items that line the shelves.

One of the main reasons people come to seek Charlie’s guidance is because they have food allergies. Gluten-free foods have seen a huge surge in popularity over the past five years as sufferers aim to cut gluten from their diets. Back to Nature sells a variety of gluten-free foods, with pretzels and cookies being the most popular option.

The biggest advantage Back to Nature offers over your regular grocery store is the knowledge of the owner. Charlie makes it his mission to stay up-to-date on what’s going on in the health food industry. Things are constantly changing which makes his job both interesting and challenging. He will always make time to talk to customers about what they’re looking for and offer his advice and guidance when it’s needed. So whether you have a specific health concern or just want to check out their selection of health food, stop in at Back to Nature. Here’s to another 35 years!

Back to Nature
13 Walnut Ave.
(908) 276-4270