Good To-Go
Homebase: Kittery, Maine
Founded: 2014
Website: https://goodto-go.com/
Meals on the market: 15+
A NYC Chef Moves to Maine…
As stated on the company website, Good To-Go has a mission to “create the most delicious meals, using clean ingredients, to be enjoyed wherever your adventures take you.”
Founded in 2014, Good To-Go was one of the first backpacking food brands to focus on truly healthy options, with the stated purpose of changing how people eat on-the-go.
On their “About” us page, Good To-Go mentions they are “cooks, not food scientists.” This is reflected in the story of Jennifer Scism, the chef who is also co-founder and CEO of the company. Jennifer had been a celebrated and accomplished professional chef for decades before moving to Maine via New York. Amidst the beautiful natural scenery of Maine, Jennifer combined her love of backpacking and outdoor adventure with her years of culinary experience to create the Good To-Go.
The cornerstone of the business is their Kittery, Maine-based facility. What started in a small cape house, where Jennifer first tested her recipes, has grown into a larger operation with a USDA-approved manufacturing facility. Their commitment to staying rooted in Maine reflects their desire to support the local community and employ Mainers who share their passion for creating exceptional meals. This also allows Good To-Go to retain complete control over the cooking prcoess.
“We’re Cooks, Not Food Scientists”
Unlike many companies that outsource their manufacturing, Good To-Go takes pride in personally handcrafting each meal. Their dedicated team of cooks handles every step of the process, from prepping and cooking to dehydrating and packaging. This hands-on approach allows them to maintain a genuine connection with the food they create and ensure that it’s made to their exacting standards.
Sustainability and minimizing waste are top priorities for Good To-Go. They actively work to reduce their environmental impact by implementing practices such as zero food waste, cardboard recycling, and minimizing non-recyclable materials. On average, they dispose of only one small commercial dumpster for every 20,000 meals produced, showcasing their commitment to sustainability.
Real Food, Dehydrated
Good To-Go meals are handcrafted in their Maine-based facility, following a meticulous process. They start with sourcing the finest ingredients, preparing meals in small batches, and then dehydrating them. Unlike freeze-drying, the dehydration process requires less energy and helps retain the flavors and nutritional value of the food.
Good To-Go takes pride in offering meals with a five-year shelf life, without the use of preservatives. They keep the sodium content low while ensuring the meals are high in calories and protein. Additionally, they incorporate ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support, creating meals that not only provide energy but also contribute to overall well-being.
Their commitment to meeting diverse dietary needs is evident in their gluten-free options and a wide range of meals suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians. Good To-Go’s website also offers filtering options for customers to choose meals based on specific allergens, ensuring a personalized and safe dining experience.
Good To-Go strives to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, offering gluten-free, low-sodium meals with no preservatives. They also provide numerous vegan and vegetarian options to accommodate various lifestyles.
The Flavors of Adventure
While convenience and nutrition are essential, Good To-Go is equally passionate about creating meals bursting with flavor. Their extensive range of meals showcases culinary expertise and cultural inspirations. Gone are the days of bland camp food—Good To-Go elevates outdoor dining to a whole new level.
Whether you’re enjoying their meals on a mountaintop, during a road trip, or while camping under the stars, Good To-Go believes that a delicious and satisfying meal is an integral part of any outdoor experience. By combining their love for the outdoors with their passion for food, they strive to enhance the enjoyment of nature through culinary delights.
