SHAFFER FOODS.
Native America Prairie Grass Straws – A True Farm-to-Bar Classic
Native America Prairie Grass Straws – A True Farm-to-Bar Classic
Couldn't load pickup availability
Have You Ever Even Tried a Real Straw?
Our mandate is to bring the prairie grass straw back to cocktails, spirits and coffees. No more paper, plastic or metal. The original straw was made of straw and we want to keep it that way. Real straws are meant for the passion of sipping a beautifully made drink. You simply cannot make an authentic Mint Julep without a prairie grass straw to sip it.
The North American Prairie Grass Legacy
Sip Like History Intended.
Long before plastic and paper, prairie grasses thrived across the vast landscapes of North America, shaping the way people lived, worked, and even drank. For centuries, Indigenous communities, early settlers, and farmers used these versatile grasses for everything from woven tools to thatched roofing—and yes, even drinking straws.
At a time when cocktails were carefully crafted with fresh ingredients, it was natural for bartenders and drinkers alike to reach for a true prairie grass straw. Today, we’re reviving this forgotten piece of mixology history with hand-cut, sustainably harvested prairie grass straws—bringing authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship back to the bar.
🌾 The North American Prairie & Its Historic Grasses
Spanning the Great Plains, Midwest, and Canadian Prairies, the native grasses of North America have provided strength and sustainability for thousands of years. The most notable grasses—once essential to Indigenous cultures and early agriculture—are now making their way back to modern cocktail culture:
✔ Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) – Known as the “King of the Prairie,” this tall, hollow-stemmed grass was widely used by Indigenous tribes for shelter, weaving, and even natural insulation. Today, its durability makes it perfect for a long-lasting, compostable straw.
✔ Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) – A sacred grass for many Indigenous nations, Indiangrass was used in basket weaving and textile production. Its hollow stems and natural flexibility make it an ideal material for sustainable sipping.
✔ Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – This resilient, drought-resistant prairie grass was historically used for erosion control and livestock feed. Its strong, smooth stems have been rediscovered as a premium alternative to disposable plastic straws.
✔ Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – A shorter, more delicate prairie grass, Little Bluestem was traditionally used for bedding and fiber. Today, it serves as a lightweight, elegant straw option for fine cocktails and iced beverages.
✔ Canada Wild Rye (Elymus canadensis) – With its naturally hollow and durable structure, Canada Wild Rye was often used in Indigenous crafts and farming. It remains one of the strongest and most resilient native grasses, making it an excellent choice for premium sipping straws.
Cocktail Culture & The Lost Prairie Grass Straws
From the 1800s through the early 20th century, natural prairie grass straws were commonly used in taverns and saloons across North America. Before the rise of mass production, bartenders would cut local grasses into straws for serving Mint Juleps, Whiskey Sours, and other classic cocktails.
During Prohibition (1920–1933), North American cocktail culture went underground, with speakeasies serving Canadian whisky and bootlegged spirits—often accompanied by naturally sourced straws. With the repeal of Prohibition, industrial materials like plastic and paper took over, and the natural straw tradition was lost.
Now, we’re bringing it back.
100% Natural & Hand-Cut – A True Farm-to-Bar Experience
✔ Crafted from traditional North American prairie grasses – Sustainably grown and responsibly harvested.
✔ Compostable & Plastic-Free – A zero-waste alternative to disposable plastic and soggy paper straws.
✔ Perfect for Cocktails & Iced Beverages – Strong and durable for classic cocktails, iced coffees, and everyday drinks.
✔ Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Supports the revival of native prairie grasslands and regenerative farming.
Farm-to-Bar, Just as Nature Intended.
Each straw is organically grown and naturally dried to create the ultimate authentic drinking experience. Whether you’re serving a classic Mint Julep, an Old Fashioned, or a craft cocktail, these straws add a touch of history and heritage to every sip.
✔ Naturally strong and long-lasting – Won’t disintegrate like paper straws.
✔ A true connection to North American prairie lands – Honoring the natural grasses once used by Indigenous communities and early bartenders.
✔ A premium addition to bars, cafés, and sustainable homes – Elevate your drinks with the real deal.
Never Run Out – Subscribe & Sip Naturally!
Enjoy true customer service from your sales rep. Each region is managed by a local franchise owner, giving you direct access to tailored support and supply management.
Join our Sip Sustainably Subscription to keep your bar or café stocked year-round:
✔ Regular Deliveries – Fresh prairie grass straws, delivered when you need them.
✔ Exclusive Savings – Free Shipping.
✔ Hassle-Free Convenience – No last-minute stockouts, just effortless sustainability.
✔ Priority Access – Be the first to try new seasonal designs & specialty cuts.
👉 Choose your plan & make every sip count!
Prefer a single order? No problem—grab a pack and experience the difference yourself. But trust us, once you try a real prairie straw, you won’t go back.
🌾 Sip with history. Sip sustainably.