Last Updated on March 7, 2025 by higherring
Colleen Kavanagh is here with the latest Food Gossip! Wondering why our beloved Pure Plant Protein Powder has been out of stock?
Watch the video to hear the full update, including why it took longer than expected and how we found a new supplier that meets our strict sourcing and purity standards.
ZEGO’s Pure Plant Protein Powder is Coming Back! Here’s Why It Took So Long
When our original supplier, who worked directly with farmers, had to close their business, we knew finding a replacement wouldn’t be easy. ZEGO’s whole food Pure Plant Protein Powder is made from 100% sacha inchi. This nutrient-dense seed is naturally high in protein and has the best balance of all 9 essential amino acids compared to pea, rice, soy, and hemp. It’s also easily digestible, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a clean, plant-based protein source.
But not all sacha inchi protein is created equal. Many versions on the market have a strong, bitter taste and gritty texture—qualities we knew wouldn’t meet ZEGO’s high standards. After months of searching, we finally found a handful of suppliers whose protein met our taste and texture requirements.
Purity Matters
Of course, taste and texture weren’t the only hurdles. At ZEGO, we go beyond organic. We test for 500+ pesticides and heavy metals, ensuring our plant-based protein powder is as clean as possible. Unfortunately, most of the samples we tested failed our lab’s heavy metal screenings—some by a shocking amount.
But we finally found one that meets our purity standards. We’re thrilled to bring ZEGO’s Pure Plant Protein Powder back to you in April (maybe even sooner!).
Want a Discount on Your First Order?
We’re so excited to share this with you that we’ll be offering a special discount when our new batch arrives! Leave a comment or email us at customerservice@zegofoods.com, and we’ll make sure you get one.
Thank you for your patience and support—we can’t wait for you to try it!
Colleen Kavanagh
Colleen has dedicated over 20 years of her career to improving the federal nutrition programs on the local, state, and federal level in her work for Congress, the School Nutrition Association, California Food Policy Advocates, and her own nonprofit project called A Better Course. Frustrated with the inability of federal action to bring truly healthy food to those in need. she started her food company ZEGO in 2013 to focus on food purity and nutrition density. Through ZEGO, she encourages consumers to advocate for themselves and ask the brands they love to measure and report the purity of their food.
We’re excited to share the next chapter in our journey toward building a better, more transparent food system.
Our founder Colleen is on-site in Belgrade, Montana to introduce you to the newest part of ZEGO’s story — our acquisition (with our sister company CIVC) of the Montana Gluten Free production facility.
This move allows us to:
🌾 Vertically integrate our production
🤝 Support more allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and regenerative brands
🏭 Expand our capacity while maintaining the same high standards you trust
🎥 Watch the video to hear from Colleen and get a first look at the facility!
And stay tuned — we’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes videos in the coming weeks to give you a closer look at how your food is grown, processed, and packaged with care. 💚
📍 Link in bio to read the full press release.
Jul 21
Trying to eat healthier?
This new Washington Post article has smart, doable tips — and one of the big ones is about protein. 👇
It’s not just how much protein you eat…
it’s when you eat it that matters, too.
💡 Remember, your body doesn’t store protein the way it stores carbs or fat. You’ve got to get enough every day—and that starts with the first meal.
Most of us load up on protein at dinner and skimp on breakfast.
But protein in the morning can help with:
✔️ Energy
✔️ Fewer cravings throughout the day
✔️ More stable blood sugar
And here’s something many people don’t know:
👉 Protein needs go up as we age.
Our bodies get less efficient at using it, which makes it even more important to eat high-quality protein throughout the day.
So what can you do?
🌱 Make some simple swaps and start your day with nutrient-dense, whole foods that naturally offer protein.
We like using oats that are naturally higher in protein and fiber than typical varieties — they’re a great way to get more nutrition from the meals you already enjoy.
🍽 Tip: Add seeds, a scoop of protein powder, nut/seed butter, or your favorite milk to boost your breakfast protein even more.
📖 Tap the link in our bio or check our stories to read the full article and learn how to optimize your protein intake at every age.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/07/16/protein-how-much-do-i-need/
Jul 18
🌞 Mango Smoothie Bowl with a Crunch 🌴🥭
This vibrant mango smoothie bowl gets a major upgrade with a sprinkle of our Organic Cinnamon Twist Muesli on top — and it’s more than just a pretty garnish.
Here’s why our muesli is the perfect smoothie bowl topper:
✨ Made with a special variety of oats that naturally deliver more protein, iron, and fiber
🌱 Packed with crunchy seeds instead of nuts — making it safe for those with nut allergies
💧 Eco-friendly — seeds require 90% less water to grow than tree nuts
Delicious, nutritious, allergy-friendly, and better for the planet? That’s a topping you can feel good about.
👉 What’s your favorite smoothie bowl combo? Tell us below or tag us in your creation — we’d love to see how you muesli!
Jul 16
Where’s ZEGO? Fairfax, VA 🌱
We’re proud to be on shelves at MOM’s Organic Market—a grocery store as passionate about sustainability as we are.
From their compostable produce bags to their support of organic farming, MOM’s is leading the way toward a healthier planet. And now you can find our Organic Double Protein Oatmeal and Organic Muesli in their aisles too.
Our oats are grown with care for both your body and the earth—using purity-tested, organic practices that go beyond the standard.
If you’re in the Fairfax area, stop by MOM’s and grab a bag (or two) of ZEGO. Let’s grow something good together. 🌾♻️
Jul 14
Sweet, chewy, and bursting with berry flavor!
These no-bake bites are a powerhouse of plant-based nutrition—made with our Cinnamon Twist Muesli and Pure Plant Protein, plus chia seeds and crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a delicious, allergy-friendly snack.
The strawberries add a huge flavor burst and just the right amount of crunch!🍓
Strawberry Crunch Protein Balls
gluten-free, nut-free, and top allergen-free.
✨ Ingredients:
▫️2 tbsp ZEGO Pure Plant Protein
▫️1 cup ZEGO Cinnamon Twist Muesli
▫️½ cup sunflower seed butter
▫️¼ cup maple syrup
▫️1 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
▫️¼ cup mini white chocolate chips
▫️2 tbsp chia seeds
▫️Splash of vanilla extract
Mix sunflower seed butter, maple syrup, vanilla, protein powder, and chia seeds until smooth. Stir in the muesli, strawberries, and chocolate chips. Chill the mixture for 30 minutes, then roll into balls.
🧊 These protein balls will be at their crunchiest when freshly made but you can store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Would you use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate in yours? 🍫👇
Jul 10
📢 Big news from ZEGO! We’re excited to share a major development in the organic and regenerative gluten-free and allergy-friendly food space. 🌱
ZEGO, a pioneer in purity-tested foods, is collaborating with a new venture, CIVC LLC, to acquire the Montana Gluten Free Processors (MGFP) facility in Belgrade, MT. This strategic move expands ZEGO’s capacity and strengthens the mid-tier supply chain for value-added oats and ancient grains in the United States.
Here’s what this means:
🤝 Mission-Driven Collaboration
CIVC is more than a facility—it’s a new model for farmer support, transparency, and equity in the food system.
✨ Allergen- & Corn-Free Co-Packing
The upgraded facility will offer co-manufacturing in a certified gluten-free, allergen-controlled, glyphosate-free environment—ideal for better-for-you and wellness brands.
🌾 Support for Regenerative & Organic Crops
We’re strengthening the supply chain to help rotational crops thrive and give farmers more sustainable options.
🔍 Purity Verification You Can Trust
ZEGO’s industry-first transparency platform will extend to CIVC’s co-packing clients, supporting consumer trust in the value of organic and regenerative certifications.
🚜 Backed by USDA Grant Support
Thanks to a 2024 Organic Market Development Grant, we’re investing in top-tier upgrades for quality, capacity, and traceability.
This is just the beginning. 💪
Head to the blog to read the full press release 👉 [link in bio]
Jul 7
Celebrating the life and legacy of Andrew Kassoy, co-founder of B Lab
Andrew’s work changed the way we think about business. He firmly believed that industry leaders must be responsible, recognizing that businesses have a duty to care, serve, and contribute to building a better world.That idea sits at the heart of the B Corp movement, and it’s a belief we hold tightly at ZEGO.
“Capitalism was built on the idea of carelessness… people should build wealth for themselves and that other people didn’t matter. … (Your business is) not just here to do good, you’re here to care.”
— Andrew Kassoy, co-founder of B Lab
As a certified B Corporation, we are proud to be part of the movement Andrew helped create—one that puts people, planet, and purpose at the core of what we do. His legacy lives on through every business working to be a force for good, and his words continue to challenge us to lead with care and courage.
“In a time when so many people are careless, and so many people lack moral courage, it’s up to us to double down on care and courage. And that’s a hell of a lot easier, and a hell of a lot more powerful, if we do it together.”
Andrew, thank you for showing us what’s possible. Your vision will continue to inspire us and so many others to build a better, more compassionate future.
Jul 3
We’re so inspired by the work the Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank is doing to support their community—and especially moved by thoughtful volunteers like Gavin. 💚
Gavin, a high school student, saw a need for more allergy-friendly options at the food bank and took action, reaching out to companies like ours to help fill the gap. As someone with a peanut allergy himself, he understan firsthand how important safe, inclusive food is.
Thanks to Gavin’s advocacy, families served by the food bank now have access to gluten-free, top-allergen-free oatmeal from ZEGO and other allergy-safe staples. 🥣🌱
Thank you, Gavin, for using your voice to make a difference—and thank you to the whole Orangevale-Fair Oaks Food Bank team for all you do!
Want to support the food bank? Visit their page at https://www.ovfofb.org/volunteer to learn more!
Jul 3
🥣 Overnight Oats: 3 Ways with Our Blueberry Lemon Poppy Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend 💙🍋
When the temps rise, it’s time to cool down your breakfast routine. Overnight oats are the perfect no-cook option — quick to prep, loaded with nutrition, and ready to enjoy straight from the fridge.
Our Blueberry Lemon Poppy Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend is the star of the show — featuring real dried fruit, nutrient-dense seeds, and lots of flavor. Plus, it’s a good source of vitamin D2, making it a smart way to start your day, especially if you’re dairy-free or plant-based.
✨ Today, we’re sharing 3 refreshing flavor combos:
PB&J Vibes
– 1/3 cup ZEGO Blueberry Lemon Poppy Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend
– 1/3 cup plant-based milk
– 1 tbsp peanut butter or sunflower seed butter
– 1/4 cup raspberries, lightly mashed
– 1 tbsp hemp seeds
– 1 tbsp honey or agave (optional)
Chill and swirl in more seed butter before serving!
Mango Blueberry Bliss
– 1/3 cup ZEGO Blueberry Lemon Poppy Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend
– 1/3 cup coconut milk
– 1/3 cup diced fresh mango
– 1 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tbsp agave (optional)
Blueberry Banana Poppy Crunch
– 1/3 cup ZEGO Blueberry Lemon Poppy Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend
– 1/3 cup plant-based milk
– 1/2 mashed banana
– Pinch of cinnamon
– 2 tbsp sunflower seeds
– 1 tbsp honey or agave (optional)
💡 Plant-based, gluten-free, and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamin D2 — these oats are anything but basic.
Which flavor are you trying first? Tag us in your overnight oat creations!
Jul 2
“Essentially, all life depends upon the soil … There can be no life without soil and no soil without life; they have evolved together.”
— Charles E. Kellogg, USDA Yearbook of Agriculture, 1938
At ZEGO, we believe that truly clean food starts with healthy soil.
That’s why our commitment to transparency and nourishment begins before the seed is planted.
We work with farmers who grow crops in ways that regenerate the soil, protect ecosystems, and produce nutrient-rich food—without harmful chemicals or shortcuts.
Because when we take care of the soil, it takes care of us. 🌱
Jun 27
Cool down with a pop that actually fuels you 💥
Store-bought pops? Usually full of added sugars and… not much else.
These pops? Made with real food and packed with plant-based protein to actually do something for your body.
Here’s why we love them:
💪 Double Protein Oats give you complex carbs + 2x the protein
🌿 Pure Plant Protein Powder adds a nutty richness (with zero nuts)
🍯 Sweetened with agave, so you control the sugar
🍓 Real strawberries + lemon juice for a bright, summery vibe + vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants
✅ Allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and made with our purity verified ingredients
To Make:
Ingredients:
🥣 1 cup ZEGO Organic Double Protein Oatmeal
🌱 4 tbsp ZEGO Pure Plant Protein Powder
💧 1 cup water
🍓 1 cup diced strawberries + extra slices
🍋 2 tbsp lemon juice
🍯 4–5 tbsp agave (or sweeten to taste)
🌼 1 tsp vanilla extract
🧂 Pinch of sea salt
Method:
1. Blend water, oats, lemon juice, and sea salt for about 90 seconds.
2. Add the rest of your ingredients and blend again until smooth.
3. Drop sliced strawberries into popsicle molds.
4. Pour in the mixture and freeze overnight or for at least 4–6 hours.
5. Enjoy!
🧊 Perfect post-workout
🧃 Perfect after the pool
🥄 Honestly, just a perfect summer treat
Jun 25
BIG NEWS, Los Angeles! 🎉
We’re SO excited to announce that we’re officially on Erewhon’s shelves!
You can now find ZEGO at your Beverly Hills (and more!) Erewhon Market — stocked with our:
✔️ Organic Double Protein Oatmeal
✔️ Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blends
✔️ Organic Muesli
All #glutenfree, top allergen-free, and made with transparency you can trust.
Start your day with food that fuels and supports your well-being.
📍Available now at @Erewhon locations across LA!
Jun 23
🍑 Cinnamon & Spice Peach Baked Oatmeal ✨
This summer classic is too good not to share again. Juicy peaches, warm spices, and our Cinnamon & Spice Organic Oatmeal Superfood Blend come together in this cozy, fruit-filled baked oatmeal that’s perfect for breakfast or even dessert. 😍
Meal-prep friendly ✅
Freezer-friendly ✅
Full of flavor and nourishing ingredients ✅
Top with a spoonful of vanilla yogurt (or ice cream!) and a few fresh peach slices for the ultimate seasonal treat.
Why we love it:
Ceylon cinnamon and allspice not only enhance flavor but also provide gut-soothing antioxidants—making this a superfood you can feel great about eating!
💛 Gluten-Free
💛 Top Allergen-Free
💛 No Added Sugar in the blend, you control the sweetness
Craving a slice?
Get the full recipe on our blog — [link in bio]
Jun 20
✨ Spotlight on Superfoods: ZEGO’s Cinnamon & Spice Organic Oatmeal Blend ✨
Ceylon cinnamon and allspice don’t just bring cozy flavor to this blend—they deliver real benefits. 🌿 These antioxidant-rich spices may help soothe your gut and support steady blood sugar levels.
Why does that matter? A diet high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. Antioxidants work by scavenging free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage cells.
The protective effects of antioxidants are still being studied globally, but one thing’s clear: real food ingredients like those in our blend are a smart and simple way to nourish your body every day.
💛 Gluten-Free
💛 Top Allergen-Free
💛 No Added Sugar
💛 Just Clean, Nutrient-Rich Fuel
Jun 16
Parfait perfection! 🍓✨
We whipped up this dreamy parfait using our Cinnamon Twist Muesli, creamy coconut yogurt, coco whip, and fresh strawberries — simple, delicious, and packed with goodness.
Did you catch the latest update from the Environmental Working Group (EWG)? Strawberries just landed at #2 on their Dirty Dozen list again, reminding us how important it is to choose organic whenever possible — especially with berries and other thin-skinned fruits.
That’s why we’re proud that our muesli is USDA Organic and purity tested by 3rd party labs — made to pair perfectly with your clean eating choices. 💚
Jun 13
Where’s ZEGO? We’re excited to share that ZEGO is now available at Sprouts Farmers Market in Atlanta, GA! 🎉
You can now find our Purity Verified oats and allergy-friendly muesli on shelves—perfect for quick breakfasts, safe snacks, and fueling your day with clean, nourishing ingredients.
If you’re in the Atlanta area, swing by Sprouts and check us out!
Jun 11
Need a sunny snack that’s packed with plant-based protein and tropical flavor?☀️🥥
These Coconut Bliss Protein Balls are bursting with mango, lemon, and ginger for the perfect summer bite. They’re gluten-free, nut-free, and powered by our clean, Purity Tested ZEGO Pure Plant Protein.
🧡 Coconut Bliss Protein Balls
✨ 1/4 C. ZEGO Pure Plant Protein
✨ 1/2 C. Sunflower Seed Butter
✨ 1/4 C. Maple Syrup
✨ 2 tsp. Ground or 1 tsp. fresh Ginger
✨ Zest of 1 Lemon
✨ 1 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
✨ 1/2 C. Crushed Freeze-Dried Mango and/or Pineapple
✨ 3/4 C. Shredded Coconut
✨ Splash of Vanilla Extract
Mix wet ingredients and protein powder until smooth. Stir in mango and coconut. Chill for 20–30 minutes, roll into balls, and store in the fridge for up to a week (if they last that long 😉).
Perfect for poolside snacks, post-workout bites, or a quick breakfast on the go!
Jun 9
When you find a product that actually works for your body—it’s a game changer.
This review says it best:
💬 “I feel confident about what is and isn’t in this protein powder thanks to their strict testing and standards.”
Our protein powder isn’t just clean—it’s versatile too. From smoothies to baking to oatmeal, it blends like a dream (and plays nice with your gut).
✅ No nuts or top allergens
✅ No unnecessary additives
✅ No guesswork—just third-party test results you can trust
You shouldn’t have to choose between clean ingredients and functionality. With ZEGO, you get both.
What’s your favorite way to use it?
Jun 4
What Are Mycotoxins—and Why Does ZEGO Test for Them?
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain types of mold that can grow on food crops like oats, dried fruits, and spices—especially in warm, damp, or humid conditions. These molds can develop before or after harvest, and unfortunately, most mycotoxins are chemically stable, meaning they can survive food processing.
At ZEGO, we take this risk seriously.
🌾 We periodically test our oats for aflatoxin, one of the most well-known and concerning mycotoxins. While we don’t test for every type of mycotoxin, aflatoxin serves as a proxy—if conditions aren’t conducive to its growth, they’re unlikely to support other types of mycotoxins either. This approach helps us ensure safety while keeping products affordable.
🌾 Our oats are hulless, which are naturally lower in mycotoxins compared to hulled varieties.
🌾 We also roll our oats, a process that helps reduce potential contamination even further.
🌾 And we store our oats in cold, carefully controlled environments to prevent mold growth after harvest.
We design every part of our supply chain with your health in mind. Because safe, clean food should be the standard—not the exception.
Have questions? Send us a DM or let us know in the comments below!
Jun 2
“It’s time we realize that food is a form of healthcare.” — Dr. Mark Hyman
This quote really resonates with us.
Food has the power to heal, to nourish, and to support our bodies in ways we’re still learning to fully appreciate. Whether you’re navigating celiac disease, food allergies, or simply trying to eat more mindfully, choosing safe, nourishing ingredients matters.
This Celiac Awareness Month—and every month—we’re reminded that access to clean, trustworthy food isn’t just a preference. It’s a necessity.
May 29
Eagerly awaiting the return of incha powder!!! This is hands down the best and most natural protein powder to take.!