Rebel Roots

Today’s food system feels like a conveyor belt, feeding us the same handful of foods over and over again. Supermarkets prioritize what lasts longer on the shelf, looks perfect, or ships well, not what tastes incredible. Somewhere along the way, we lost the connection between the food we eat and the land, people, and stories behind it. Flavor has become become an afterthought, and diversity is riding in the backseat.

But it doesn’t have to stay that way. We, as consumers, hold immense power. We can choose to dig deeper into the stories behind what we eat. Who grew it? How was it grown? Where does it come from? By rebuilding that connection—with farmers, local sellers, and the food itself—we can rediscover flavor, embrace variety, and make thoughtful choices that nourish both our bodies and our environment.

It doesn’t take a revolution to make a change. Start small. Wander through a local market. Chat with the people behind the produce. Buy seasonal ingredients. Try new ones. Ask questions. Be curious. Every step—no matter how small—brings you closer to the real story of your food and the way it connects us all.

At Rebel Roots, we’re not here to preach or complicate things with big words. We’re learning, just like you, from the ground up. That’s why we’re excited to bring you along—to uncover the hidden stories, celebrate diversity, and make the food world a little less intimidating. We’re curious, imperfect, and driven by a simple goal: to help you reconnect with the roots of your food, one zine at a time.

Together, let’s ditch the dull and go back to the roots.

In the fifth edition of Rebel Roots, Kara shows us how even the most unassuming root can pack a punch — and a crunch. 

Whether in the kitchen or the dojo, she proves carrots have more to offer than meets the eye. This issue celebrates how creativity and innovation can help us see beyond the everyday. From Holy Carrot’s bold take on plant-based dining to Swegreen’s urban farming revolution, Inglorious Fruits & Vegetables’ fight to celebrate imperfections, and Maison Carpinelli’s mission to reconnect us with the beauty of seasonal and diverse produce, we’ve gathered stories that challenge the norm and reshape how we connect with our food. Plus, practical tips, recipes, and fresh ways to let this vibrant root shine!