Saturday Farmers’ Market Vendor Feature: The Jerk Store

Entering its second year at our market this week we are featuring the Jerk Store! The Jerk Store specializes in premium BC Beef and Organic Tofu jerky with the goal of making delicious jerky for everyone. We recently had the opportunity to chat with owner and jerky creator, Kalkin Brosseau to find out more.

How long has the Jerk Store been around? How did you get started?

This is our 3rd year as a company. I started making it for myself because I wanted a healthier snack and didn’t like the grocery store options. When we moved to BC from Ontario I decided to start the business.

What are the three most important things you think people should know about the Jerk Store ?

That we make really delicious jerky!
We try to use local ingredients whenever possible.
We make small batch handcrafted jerky so that people get the freshest product.

Why did you choose to come to the UBC Saturday Market specifically?

We are always looking to try out new markets and meet new people. I love the farm setting which is one of the major reasons we are returning this year. You just can’t beat the feeling of grass under your feet.

On your website you discussed supporting local communities and healthy food webs, what are some of the ways you are able to do this?

We try to use local ingredients whenever possible, our beef comes from Armstrong and the tofu comes from East Vancouver. We also get onions and parsley from local farms when they are in season. We volunteered with the Tri-City Chapter of Soup Sisters, which supports a local women’s shelter. I am also on the board of Grow Local Tri-Cities which hosts the Coquitlam and Port Moody Farmer’s Markets and is involved with community gardens and local food security.

What goes into developing a new flavour of jerky?

I have tried to use classic beef recipes, I think the flavours gets people really excited to try jerky that is unique but familiar at the same time.

You have a range of vegan jerkies as well, how did you get started making vegan jerky?

It started with my daughter who was going through a vegan phase, and I wanted to help her still get enough protein in her diet. More people are starting to think along the same lines so it seemed like a no-brainer idea.

If you could only have one of your jerky for the rest of your life which one would it be?

Chipotle Cowboy is definitely my favourite flavor.

Where else can customers find you? And is there anything else you want them to know for this season?

We can be found online at www.jerkstore.ca as well as craft breweries throughout the Lower Mainland, the Jaks liquor store chain and the Cascadia Liquor Group on Vancouver Island.