Harvest Time Natural Foods — Local services in Augusta

We are new to the area and missing the natural foods stores down in Portland, so I decided to check out this shop to see what they had.

I was really hoping to find some locally grown fresh produce, but they only have a TINY fresh produce section. There's also not much in the way of gluten free frozen goods that don't have gums added, same with non dairy milk alternatives (the one option that doesn't have locust bean gum or acacia gum, etc, was $7.99 for a pint. No joke.)

Few fresh baked goods and nothing gluten free, at least not at the time we went.

Also, there are no ingredients lists for the bulk granola bites/snacks, which is especially annoying since cell reception inside the store sucks so you can't really look it up, either.

Basically, if you're someone with more than just basic dairy or gluten issues, you'll have a hard time finding anything here.

The good news is that they have a wonderful selection of hard to find baking ingredients as well as fresh probiotics, ayurvedic tinctures, homeopathic and natural remedies, and essential oils.

Unfortunately, the lady that checked us out was short tempered, rude, and hurtful. As we were making our way back to the front of the store, I heard her counting down the drawers and, while I was aware it was nearing closing, we still had 15 minutes until 6pm. I know, I checked my smart watch. Having worked retail for many years I know how it feels at the end of the day when you're ready to go home, and I was careful to check out before 6pm. I even paid with a credit card when I would have preferred cash so that she wouldn't have to recount the drawer on that register.

When we went to check out, the lady was cold and snappish. There was zero warmth or friendlessness there at all. For example, while I waited for her to ring us up, I turned around and discovered a whole other section I'd completely missed before and said "wow, now I have to come back!" and the lady muttered "no, you really don't." Shocked, and certain I'd misheard her - her words stung and I honestly don't know why she would say something like that - I politely asked several times for her to repeat what she'd said, but she pointedly ignored me. So, I let it go.

There were other things she said and did that made it obvious she didn't like me and wanted us to gtfo. And, of course, not a word when we left. No, "bye", "thank you", "have a nice day", nothing. We were simply dismissed and I felt that she was happy to get rid of us.

Not to worry. She'll get what she wanted: I will...

Five stars because the food selection is what I can expect from a quality organic/natural food store, and it it close to the highway and downtown.

Supplement section is robust, with a remembrance to the important things by placing local baked goods close to the supplements.

There is a decent frozen section, and dry goods. Packaged goods are available as well, with some bulk items available. There is no real to-go section, but that didn't stop us from getting turkey slices to use as wraps for some jalapeno fermented sauerkraut. I do have something to say about hemp based chocolate chip cookies found in the cooler, gluten free for those with allergies.

The big thing is to not judge this store by it's lack of store photos. I added some, but if you are from out of town and need to find food that has allergen considerations, this is your place.

If you are reading this review, please go to this place and take photos of what is important to you, so others may see what is available at this time store. In the meantime, enjoy their products and check out...

I’ve visited this store several times because there aren’t many health food options in the Augusta area. They have a good selection of vitamins and supplements—but they’re often hard to find and there’s rarely anyone on the floor to help. I’ve had to wait for the cashier (after they finish with customers) just to ask a question.

Unfortunately, the cashier I’ve encountered most often (mainly weekends) could really use a lesson in customer service. No greeting, no smile, no real engagement—even when I’m polite and friendly. You’d expect better from a wellness store, especially with their premium prices.

Their food section is small and the dry goods are overpriced. After several disappointing visits, I’ve decided to buy my health products online. It’s unfortunate because I prefer to support local—but...