Obvious Ingredients is proof that a simple idea can have a profound impact. Founded by Deb Taber, this innovative business is dedicated to making healthy, single-ingredient dried produce and seasoning powders for consumers. Committed to food transparency, local sourcing, and healthy yet simple choices for bold flavors, Obvious Ingredients is the obvious choice.
Kitchen Experiments to a Flavorful Enterprise
The concept behind Obvious Ingredients was born from Deb Taber’s passion for natural food options that are free from unnecessary and often troublesome ingredients. The company came to fruition by chance when Deb was looking for alternative ways to enjoy the fruit from her plum tree, through dehydration. One day, with extra onions on hand, she decided to experiment. This small act ended up crafting a simple yet delicious and natural treat- perfect for enhancing dishes. Little did she know this would be life-changing for her.
Having to transition to a gluten-free diet amid health concerns, Deb had accidentally discovered a method to reintroduce flavor, texture, and even “crunch” back into her favorite soups and salads through this onion. Her interest in creating bold flavors with simple ingredients intensified after reading a nutritionist’s book highlighting the harmful effects of additives and preservatives and how challenging they can be for our bodies to process. As she navigated her own health and dietary changes, these insights resonated deeply with her. She reflects,
“I started really looking at labels on things, and found that a lot had preservatives, additives to keep them from clumping, or things for color- things you don’t really need, but extend the shelf-life. So, I thought if it doesn’t really need it, I’ll make something that doesn’t have it.”
With a background in operations and a desire for tasty, natural alternatives, Deb created products through Obvious Ingredients that emphasize the power of simplicity: organic, single-ingredient powders and toppers that capture the true essence of vegetables and their natural flavors. However, turning this vision into reality was not without challenges. Navigating the complexities of food production, developing consumer products, and managing packaging and sales required considerable effort. Nevertheless, Deb’s resilience, creativity, and support from others have aided her on this journey.
Incubator Kitchen Program (at 21 Acres)
One of the most transformative moments in the Obvious Ingredients journey was discovering the 21 Acres Incubator Kitchen program. This partnership between 21 Acres Farm and Business Impact NW provides access to an industrial shared-use kitchen designed for small food-based businesses. The program focuses on providing food production space and wraparound educational training for farm and packaged food businesses that source ingredients primarily from local agricultural producers.
For Obvious Ingredients, the program was essential. Deb gained access to the tools and space needed to produce high-quality and ready-to-sell products. In addition to the physical kitchen, the program provided something even more valuable: a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and expert guidance through Business Impact NW’s coaching and resources. This collaborative environment fostered conversations, knowledge sharing, and networking, contributing to Deb’s success and all participants in the Incubator Kitchen Program. Janel Nonhoff, Incubator Kitchen Manager-21 Acres, says,
“Deb Taber has made impressive strides since she began processing in the incubator kitchen in July 2024. Her rapid learning and efficient use of the commercial kitchen highlights her dedication and adaptability. With a combination of business coaching and hands-on kitchen training, she has developed a beautiful line of locally sourced, dehydrated vegetables.” Janel proudly emphasizes, “The results speak for themselves — these products are masterfully crafted, retaining the fresh, vibrant flavors that showcase her commitment to quality and taste.”
From Vision to Value: Pitching Her Product
21 Acres is a leader in sustainable and regenerative practices, serving as an agroecological education center and living laboratory for people who want to learn about solutions to climate change. In addition to partnering with the Incubator Kitchen Program, 21 Acres features an on-site market that provides participating entrepreneurs a local venue to sell their products. The Farm Market is open year-round, giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to market their products more effectively and organically build their client base.
Deb successfully navigated the challenges of working in the commercial kitchen and updated her packaging. She then had to pitch her product at the on-site market. She presented Obvious Ingredients, highlighting its multi-use features and locally sourced ingredients, and secured a coveted spot to sell within the The Farm Market. Not every entrepreneur in the program gets the opportunity to sell their goods, which speaks to the quality of her food products.
Obvious Ingredients products include:
- Dehydrated Veggies: Confetti Bell Peppers, Crisp Onions, and Crunchy Jalapenos
- Soup & Seasoning Starter: Pure Veggie Mirepoix Powder is a highly versatile additive to use as a base, a dip, and more!
- All Purpose Seasoning: All- Purpose Mixed Vegetable Powder that is great for baking, roasting, or sauteing and can be used on meat, fish, and veggies!
The Recipe for Success: Growth Through Collaboration & Support
With the support of Business Impact NW, Deb was able to turn her dream into reality. This support system was crucial in helping her navigate challenges such as food operations, bookkeeping, and scaling her business. One of the most empowering moments came during one-on-one sessions where she was able to work with Jocelyn Campbell. She is an accountant who specializes in food and farm businesses. Through this perk of the cohort, Deb was able to gain comprehensive insights into the structure of her business. This experience allowed her to identify key areas for improvement to her financial processes and strategies. As a result, she now has a clearer understanding of her company’s financial health. This includes revenue streams, expenses, and overall financial health, enabling her to make more informed decisions as a business owner.
Deb collaborated closely with Devra Gartenstein, the King County Farm Business Support Specialist. Devra guided her through the paperwork required by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). She also offered ongoing business coaching and professional advice. The assistance from her business coach was particularly valuable. With the help, Deb learned more about obtaining food and business insurance. This played a significant role in advancing Obvious Ingredients. Deb says,
“The paperwork was overwhelming, the wondering if you are doing it right, what if I do it wrong, what’s going to happen? Having Devra there saying here’s the time it will take, here’s the date you will need it by; if you have any questions, we’ll set up a time to go over question by question; that was very helpful.”
Devra Gartenstein, Business Impact NW, King County Farm Business Support Specialist says,
“It’s been such a pleasure working with Deb. She’s brought a wealth of knowledge, experience, and vision to the process of launching her products, and I’ve learned plenty from her as well.”
Looking Ahead
Along with the invaluable business support solutions from Business Impact NW and the Incubator Kitchen Program, Deb Taber has transformed her challenges into stepping stones for success. With newfound confidence and essential tools at her disposal, she’s scaling her business while savoring every moment of her journey.
Just as she curates only the finest ingredients for her creations, Deb is dedicated to upholding the quality of her products and nurturing her business’s organic growth. She dreams of a bright future for her company and takes immense pride in being a locally owned venture.
Obvious Ingredients is available through both online platforms and select markets. Deb is eager to share her passion for enriching soups, salads, and seasonings with simple, natural ingredients with everyone.
Want to learn more about the Incubator Kitchen Program and how it can support your business, click here.
Remember, Food Biz Week is right around the corner, check here for updates to get your tickets!
About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.