When I heard that the first local Blue Zones-approved restaurant was a bakery, I was appalled. We know that baked goods, bread and sugar are primary causes of today’s chronic disease epidemic, so it didn’t make sense. Then, I met Bread and Flours.

The beloved Palm Springs café is all about healthier ingredients and a strong sense of community. Owners Mark Gavigan and Kristin Ryall put so much conscious care into everything they do, you can see — and taste – the difference.

Everything offered at Bread and Flours is entirely plant-based and nothing is ultra-processed. They use local, seasonal ingredients with no preservatives or chemicals. Their customers swoon for their sourdough and ancient-grain breads, which contain no sugar and are naturally lower in gluten; three days of fermenting further reduces the gluten. They offer freshly made soups, dips, salads and more, even plant-based salamis. Their baked goods contain 30% less sugar.

Exceptional offerings include ancient grain bread, lemon hummus and tofu egg salad.

I tried the Blue Zones-inspired lemon hummus, the tofu egg salad and a sprouted ancient grain loaf — incredibly flavorful, and the bread did not upset my gluten-free gut.

I also learned that becoming a Blue Zones-approved restaurant goes beyond nutrition. The four core objectives are empowering people through purpose, education, and leadership opportunities; fostering social connection and a sense of belonging; creating environments that make healthy choices easier; and strengthening policies, programs, and practices that advance well-being.

Mark and Kristin have built a strong sense of community with Bread and Flours. Beyond their adoring customers, they believe in supporting local farmers and keeping their products tied to the valley rather than shipping nationwide. They emphasize sustainability and donate leftovers to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.

Stop by Bread and Flours and experience the difference. They are located at 2100 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 105, in Palm Springs and open Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Try this incredible vegan, gluten-free mushroom soup recipe from Bread and Flours!

For information, visit www.breadandflours.com. To become a Blue Zone-approved organization, visit www.bluezonesprojectpalmsprings.com/organization.