With International Women’s Day, just around the corner we spoke to inspirational female entrepreneur Alexia Kazolides about her delicious new brand of healthy granola, GRAIN & BOWL.
When and why did you create the brand?
I launched GRAIN & BOWL in the summer of 2016 with the aim of bridging the gap between free-from and amazing flavours. Being an avid foodie myself but having to deal with a number of food intolerances, I was frustrated by the lack of delicious foods and selection available in the ‘freefrom’ aisles.
What was your inspiration?
I was inspired by my restauranteur father’s love of food and eye for detail as well as my own food intolerances. After years of suffering with IBS I was medically advised to try a low FODMAP diet. From this I learnt I could only handle ingredients such as honey, dates and apples in the smallest of quantities. With this in mind I set about making recipes with only natural ingredients that left people feeling fulfilled rather than bloated or uncomfortable.
Tell us about your product.
My two launch flavours are Maple’n’Pecan as well as Cardamom Spice. They are free from dairy, gluten, refined sugars and focus on organic ingredients. With ingredients, such as extra virgin olive oil, quinoa flakes and Madagascan bourbon vanilla they truly taste ‘next level’ amazing.
How do you eat yours?
Personally, I like to enjoy my granola in many different ways depending on my mood. With the Cardamom Spice I like it sprinkled on porridge or with Greek yoghurt, fresh berries and a dollop of tahini. Heaven! I love the Maple’n’Pecan with almond milk or with yoghurt and nut butter. Equally they’re both great straight out the packet.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Whilst it’s great to think long term and plan ahead don’t let overthinking get in the way of actually starting up. If you’re really passionate about something you need to take the leap. Be passionate, be dedicated and definitely take risks. It’s only when you leave your comfort zone that you really start to achieve things.
Head over to GRAIN & BOWL’S website to try their products for yourself.
