Bringing Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice to Hawai‘i
For J’s Hawai‘i has created some of the most savory seasonings and condiments made locally. Started in the kitchen of Janis Tanga’s home whose flavors and recipes beckoned friends and neighbors alike for more, she started her enterprise in 2001 after her Poi Puff mix and variety of recipes became so popular within her community she had to industrialize. Now, the company’s kitchen is in Waipahu and produces a variety of products, handcrafting Hawaiian salts, sugars, and condiments. They also sell gift baskets that are perfect for friends and family or your favorite home cook. “At For J’s Hawai‘i, our goal is to produce gourmet salts and sugars that noticeably enhance your food,” Tanga said.
Born and raised in Waipahu, Tanga takes pride in her roots by using local ingredients in her products. Kiawe smoked, Hawaiian chili pepper, maui onion and red alaea salt are among the flavors of their unique products.
For J’s Hawai‘i has become a favorite in both the industry and at home. Famous chefs, locals, and tourists enjoy using the products. When the pandemic hit, For J’s Hawai‘i had to pivot and think of ways to distribute their products to people on the mainland. And, that meant a new website, Instagram and Facebook,” said Tanga.
Since then, they have migrated to online sales with a user-friendly website at www.forjshawaii.com and have created listings of their products on Amazon. Their website provides helpful information on all the products they sell, quotes from several known chefs, recipes, and even helpful videos on how to cook certain dishes using their specialty salts and seasonings.
“The pandemic brought new challenges and has increased prices for everything,” said Tanga. “The ingredients, the supplies, and even insurance has gone up, but we have really strived to keep our prices as low as possible for our customers.”
Even after building her online presence, Tanga fears for the future of her business. While she faces many challenges, it hasn’t stopped her from continuing to adapt and work on creating new flavors. “Our newest product is our Hawaiian chili pepper oil and our crispy garlic chili oils, said Tanga. Whether she’s creating new and exciting products like their savory garlic chili oils, or meeting with new local suppliers to keep products at the same affordable price they were founded on, For J’s Hawai‘i is dedicated to providing their flavors and seasonings for everyone to enjoy.
94-340 Ukee St., Unit #1, Waipahu, HI, United States, Hawaii
808-676-7258
mail@4jshawaii.com
forjshawaii.com
@forjshawaii on Instagram
@For J’s Hawaii on Facebook
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