honor the past.

Grow the future.

Welcome to Strong Roots 9

Strong Roots 9, founded by chefs and farmers Matthew and Tia Raiford, is dedicated to nourishing the mind, body, and soul through food, products, experiences, and partnerships. Our mission is to engage the world with African American foodways, exploring their historical roots and envisioning their future. We are committed to reviving the holistic practices of our ancestors and helping our diverse community reconnect with nature. Our creations and safe spaces prioritize agriculture, equality, and sustainability.

Featured Product

Featured Product

Discover the soul of Southern cuisine with *Bress ‘n’ Nyam* by Matthew Raiford. This cookbook transcends recipes—it’s a journey through heritage, culture, and the rich flavors of Gullah Geechee traditions. Authored by farmer, chef, and storyteller Matthew Raiford, each page brings history to life with dishes that celebrate family, community, and sustainability. Perfect for home cooks and food lovers craving authentic Southern flavors, *Bress ‘n’ Nyam* is an ideal gift for those who appreciate meaningful culinary experiences. Share the warmth of true Southern hospitality and connect past to present with every meal.

Our values

New collections

Introducing HARD GRIND spices, coffee, and teas, along with Strong Roots 9 Wellness tinctures, extracts, and oils—crafted with care and rooted in tradition. From our farm to your kitchen, HARD GRIND brings bold, rich flavors that elevate every dish and cup. Our Strong Roots 9 wellness line offers natural remedies to nourish your body and soul, using the purest ingredients from our land. Discover the power of nature’s bounty, and experience the difference that quality and heritage can make.

meet the raifords.

CheFarmers Tia and Matthew Raiford are graduates of The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. Matthew and Tia met at CIA in their 20s and reunited nearly two decades later amidst the throes of the pandemic. Though they had both lived lifetimes apart, their stories and passions one again intertwined at the perfect time - serendipity.

Together their culinary and agricultural talents create the force behind Strong Roots 9, a platform that aims to raise black voices and support equity in the food world.

let’s work together!

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