Did you receive a batch of our oats this summer that’s a bit darker than usual? Watch the video below to learn why.
Typically, we source most of our organic oats from the beautiful fields of Montana. But in 2024, we ventured out to South Dakota to see if we could find some good growing regions for our gluten-free grains.
We wanted to do this because when we diversify where we grow, we spread out our crops. This allows us to safeguard against things like droughts or grasshopper infestations, ensuring you always get the oats you trust despite nature’s challenges.
So, what’s special about this batch of oats from South Dakota? What makes them different? Well, they’re a little bit higher in polyphenols and a little bit higher in protein. This can give them a slightly richer color—and sometimes a touch more bitterness. But don’t worry, they’re just as safe, healthy, and gluten-free as always!
At ZEGO, we’re always here to ensure you get the highest quality oats, no matter where they’re grown. So cook up your oats, savor their flavor, and enjoy the natural differences that make them special.
Cooking Tip: When preparing these oats, just follow the usual instructions, but be aware they might need a little extra time to cook. This is because they have a bit less water content than usual. But that’s all part of the beauty of nature’s variety!
FAQ
Are these oats safe to eat?
Of course they are! They just may require slightly different cooking times.
Are these oats gluten-free and food allergy-friendly still?
Yes! These oats are still grown in a purity protocol manner and processed in our dedicated gluten-free facility that’s also free from the top allergens.
Want to learn more about our oats? Visit this link to learn more about what makes our Purity Protocol Gluten-Free Double Protein Oats special!
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.
✨ Dress up your holiday breakfast! ✨
Add a festive, sweet–tart twist to your morning bowl with this bright and cozy combo.
🍊 Stir in:
– A spoonful of cranberry sauce
– Fresh orange zest
– A handful of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch
Made with our Organic Double Protein Oatmeal, this bowl is naturally gluten-free, plant-based, and full of nourishing goodness to start your day strong.
A simple way to bring a little holiday cheer to your morning!
Happy Thanksgiving! 🍂
Nov 27
Bring color, comfort, and allergen-friendly goodness to your holiday spread with our savory Cranberry Muesli Stuffed Acorn Squash. Made with ZEGO Organic Cranberry Muesli, this dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, and bursting with fall flavor. 🍂🎉
Perfect as a Thanksgiving side or a plant-based main—serves 6!
Ingredients
For the Savory Cranberry Muesli
1 cup ZEGO Organic Cranberry Muesli
1 ⅔ cups vegetable broth
¼ cup dried cranberries (plus extra for topping)
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp salt
2 Tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Roasted Squash
3 whole acorn squash
2 Tbsp maple syrup
3 Tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
For the Stuffing
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 cup diced onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
1. Roast the Squash
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Slice each acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
Season the cut sides with salt and pepper.
Brush with olive oil and maple syrup.
Place cut side up on a baking sheet and roast for ~35 minutes, or until tender.
2. Make the Savory Muesli
While the squash roasts, bring vegetable broth to a low boil.
Add cranberry muesli, dried cranberries, garlic, salt, olive oil, and pepper.
Simmer for 10+ minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes to thicken.
3. Prepare the Stuffing
Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
Add onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt.
Cook on medium heat until onions are translucent (about 4–5 minutes).
Stir in the savory muesli and chopped spinach.
Cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Assemble
Fill each roasted squash half generously with the stuffing mixture.
Top with extra dried cranberries, cranberry sauce, and/or fresh thyme.
Serve warm and enjoy!
It’s hearty, beautiful on the table, and easy to prepare.
Save this recipe for your holiday menu! 🍁🧡
Nov 26
There’s a lot of chatter right now about farm labor, fruit harvests, and why certain produce prices are climbing, so ZEGO founder and CEO Colleen Kavanagh is breaking it all down in this week’s Food Gossip. 👀🍓
Colleen shares an important update from the California Farm Bureau, along with some surprising insights about this year’s fruit harvest and what we might see next season. And yes… strawberries are part of the story.
Curious what’s really going on?
🎥 Watch the new episode of Food Gossip to get the full scoop.
Sources:
California Fresh Fruit Association:
Facebook.com/calfreshfruit
California Farm Bureau @cafarmbureau
#farming #organicfarms #farmlabor #foodgossip
Nov 24
Fall is the season of abundance — ripe apples, hearty grains, warm spices, and all the cozy ingredients we love. 🍎🍂🌾
But at ZEGO, we believe abundance should never come with unwanted extras.
That’s why every product we make is purity tested for heavy metals, glyphosate, and over 500+ agricultural and industrial toxins. And the best part?
Every ZEGO package has a QR code on the front that you can scan to see the third-party test results for that exact product. Total transparency, right at your fingertips.
So go ahead and enjoy the warmth of fall baking, the simplicity of a morning oatmeal bowl, and the comfort of whole foods… all with confidence that ZEGO keeps transparency at the heart of everything we do. 🌾💛 #heavymetals #autumn #oatmeal #organicoats #transparencymatters
Nov 20
Did you know you can find us at @gelsonsmarkets ?
Look for our Regenerative Oats and Superfood Oatmeal Blends in the cereal aisle!
From nutrient-dense ingredients to regenerative farming practices, we’re proud to bring you oats that support both your health and the health of the soil. 🌾✨
Nov 18
Want to try our Spokin x ZEGO collab Matcha Protein Smoothie for yourself? Bring the taste of our Alpha Freeze pop-up event home with this plant-based protein smoothie recipe!
This recipe uses our Sacha Inchi seed #plantbased protein powder and our #glutenfree Blueberry Lemon Poppy Superfood Oatmeal Blend.
RECIPE
1 cup gluten-free plant-based milk 🥛
1 cup baby spinach 🍃
1 banana 🍌
1/2 cup of blueberries 🫐
2 tablespoons ZEGO sacha inchi protein powder 💪
3 tablespoons ZEGO Blueberry Lemon Poppy Superfood Oatmeal 🥣
1 1/2 teaspoons matcha powder 🍵
1/2 cup ice 🧊
Find the full post on our ZEGO blog!
Nov 14
🍂 Fall Chai Protein Overnight Oats 🍁
There’s nothing like warm chai spices on a crisp fall morning. This overnight oats recipe captures all those cozy, comforting flavors—like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger—in a nourishing make-ahead breakfast that’s full of fall goodness. 🍎✨
We used our Cinnamon & Spice Superfood Oatmeal Blend, packed with:
🌾 β-glucan fiber for gut, brain & immune health
🌿 Ceylon cinnamon + allspice for antioxidants & blood sugar support
☀️ Vitamin D2 for immune and cognitive function
Add a scoop of ZEGO Pure Protein to make it even more satisfying and keep you full and focused all morning long.
—
To Make Fall Chai Protein Oats
1/3 c ZEGO Cinnamon & Spice Superfood Oatmeal Blend
1 tbsp ZEGO Pure Protein
1/2 c unsweetened coconut or oat milk
1 tbsp maple syrup (to taste)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp fresh minced ginger
Pinch of salt
Pinch of ground black pepper
Mix and refrigerate overnight (or warm gently in the morning if you prefer a cozy bowl).
Toppings:
🍏 Sliced apple or pear
🥥 Spoonful of vanilla coconut yogurt
✨ Dust of cinnamon or drizzle of maple syrup
Optional: Stir in a shot of espresso for a “dirty chai” twist ☕️
Nov 12
Our founder, Colleen Kavanagh, recently joined other purpose-driven food leaders at the One Step Closer (OSC) conference, a gathering of brands committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable food system. 🌎
It was an inspiring reminder that while building a mission-based company isn’t easy, collaboration and shared purpose can move the entire industry forward.
#OneStepCloser #FoodWithPurpose #SustainableFood #ZEGOFoods #TransparencyMatters
Nov 10
Community, connection, and inclusive nutrition — that’s what we’re all about. 💚
Our marketing director Erica joined @spokininc at their incredible @az_alphaphi college pop-up to blend allergy-friendly smoothies using ZEGO’s Superfood Organic Oatmeal Blends and Pure Plant Protein Powder. 🌿✨
From DJs to candy bars to build-your-own bouquets, this event had it all — and we’re grateful to be part of a community that makes everyone feel included at the table. 🙌
Nov 6
No Sugar Added Pumpkin Banana Baked Oatmeal
Pumpkin season is here, and while most fall treats are loaded with sugar, this cozy plant-based breakfast from @melissas_healthykitchen brings all the flavor without the added sugar. 🍌
She uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness—plus our ZEGO Double Protein Oats for extra protein, fiber, and peace of mind knowing they’re Purity Verified and tested for heavy metals, glyphosate, and 500+ toxins. 🌿
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
2 cups ZEGO gluten-free oats
1 cup pumpkin purée
1 ripe banana
2 Tbsp melted coconut oil (or other oil)
1 1/2 cups coconut milk (or any dairy-free milk)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp pumpkin spice seasoning
1/4 tsp salt
3 Tbsp flaxseed meal
3 Tbsp hemp seeds
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans (or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option)
To Make
Mix the wet ingredients.
Add the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
Fold in nuts or seeds.
Add to 4 greased ramekins or an 8×8 baking dish.
Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes.
Top with dairy-free vanilla yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Store covered in the fridge and enjoy all week!
Sweet, nourishing, and naturally clean—everything we love in a fall breakfast.
#NoAddedSugar #PumpkinSeason #GlutenFreeOats #BakedOatmeal #HealthyBreakfast
Nov 4
There`s nothing spooky about adding a little more fiber and protein to your seasonal gluten-free quick breads. Adding in ZEGO Double Protein Oats inside your breads and on top adds fiber, protein, and texture to your seasonal bakes. Don`t forget to use our Double Protein Oats in your seasonal crumbles and cobblers too!
Oct 31
🍁 Fall snack season is here! 🍁
Meet your new favorite bite-sized treat — Pumpkin Protein Balls made with our Cinnamon & Spice Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend and Pure Plant Protein for a wholesome boost of nutrition and cozy autumn flavor.
These no-bake bites are:
✨ Allergy-friendly (no nuts, gluten, or dairy)
🌱 Completely plant-based
💪 Packed with protein and fiber
Perfect for lunchboxes, pre-workout snacks, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Recipe:
3/4 c ZEGO Cinnamon & Spice Organic Superfood Oatmeal Blend
2 tbsp ZEGO Pure Plant Protein
1/4 c sunflower butter
1/4 c pureed pumpkin
2 tsp chia seeds
3 tbsp maple syrup
Pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients until just combined, chill for 15–30 minutes, then roll into balls.
👉 Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 5–7 days.
Oct 30
We almost missed it (oops!). 🥣
Happy National Oatmeal Day from ZEGO — where every oat is Purity Verified for the cleanest, safest bowl you can eat. 💛 #NationalOatmealDay #PurityVerified #CleanFood
Oct 30
🌾 Did you know millet is one of the most sustainable and nutritious grains you can eat?
This ancient gluten-free grain is naturally high in protein, rich in magnesium and fiber, and easy to digest. It’s also grown with a light footprint, making it a powerful ally for soil health and climate resilience.
At ZEGO & CIVC, we love millet because it’s safe for celiacs, versatile in recipes, and supports regenerative farming practices. From porridge bowls to baked goods, millet is proof that simple, whole foods can do big things for your health and the planet. 🌍💚
✨ Have you cooked with millet before? Tell us your favorite way to enjoy it!
Oct 28
Happy Teal Pumpkin season, friends! 🎃🩵
⠀
Every year, we join the Teal Pumpkin Project to spread the word about making Halloween fun—and safe—for everyone. 👻 Whether you’re handing out allergy-friendly snacks or little toys, every teal pumpkin on a porch helps kids (and parents!) breathe a little easier.⠀
⠀
We love seeing your creative ideas—so tell us, what’s your go-to safe treat this year? 🍭✨⠀
⠀
#TealPumpkinProject #AllergyFriendlyHalloween #CleanFoodForAll #PurityVerified #ZEGOPantry #SafeSnacks #InclusionMatters
Oct 28
🌾 Celebrating Indigenous Food Traditions: Wild Buckwheat 🌾
Indigenous Peoples’ Day may have passed, but we’re continuing to celebrate all month long by honoring culturally significant foods — like wild buckwheat.
Unlike the cultivated buckwheat used in cereals and flours (Fagopyrum esculentum), wild buckwheat (Eriogonum species) is native to North America and has long held importance for many Indigenous communities.
While not all species produce edible grain, parts of the plant — such as the young stems, leaves, and flowers — have been used for food, medicine, and ceremony. Tribes including the Karuk, Miwok, and Kumeyaay are among those who’ve incorporated wild buckwheat into their traditional practices, valuing it for its healing properties and connection to the land.
Each species tells a story of resilience, nourishment, and deep relationship with nature — a reminder that food is more than sustenance; it’s heritage.
🌎 #ancientgrains #sustainableagriculture #honorindigenouspeople
Oct 25
🎥 New Episode of Food Gossip with Colleen Kavanagh!
You may have seen the recent Consumer Reports investigation revealing that many popular protein powders contain worrying levels of lead and cadmium. 😳
In this week’s episode, ZEGO Founder Colleen Kavanagh breaks down what those findings really mean and why you should always demand purity verification from your protein powder brand.
At ZEGO, we test every batch for heavy metals before it ever reaches you, ensuring our levels are far below Prop 65 limits. That’s our Purity Promise. 🌿
👉 Watch the full video to hear Colleen’s insider expertise and learn how to protect yourself from hidden contaminants. #heavymetals #protein #proteinpowder #purityverified
Oct 23
Chicago-area friends, we’re now in Jewel-Osco! 🛒
Find our Double Protein Oats in stores and see why they’re a customer favorite –
💪 Twice the protein of regular oats
🌾 Purity tested for peace of mind
🌱 Always organic and gluten-free
Join us for a quick store tour!
Oct 20
🌾 What is Amaranth?
Amaranth is an ancient grain that’s been nourishing people for thousands of years. Across cultures, amaranth often symbolizes immortality and resilience. In fact, the word “amaranth” comes from the Greek “amarantos,” meaning “unfading,” reflecting the plant’s enduring seeds and vibrant flowers.
It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium. Unlike many grains, amaranth contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete plant-based protein.
You can enjoy it in a variety of ways. Cook it like oatmeal, toss it into salads, or add it to baked goods for a nutritious boost. Its slightly nutty flavor and tiny, crunchy texture make it a versatile ingredient in any kitchen.
✨ Bonus: Amaranth is considered a superfood because it’s nutrient-dense and supports overall health and wellness.
Have you tried cooking with amaranth yet? Share your favorite ways below! 👇
Oct 18
:
🌾 Celebrating Wild Rice: A Sacred and Nourishing Grain 🌾
This month, in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we’re highlighting culturally significant foods that have nourished communities for generations.
Today, we’re celebrating wild rice — or manomin, meaning “good berry,” as it’s known by the Ojibwe and Chippewa peoples who have harvested it for centuries. 🌿
Though often called rice, wild rice is actually the seed of an aquatic grass that grows in lakes and slow-moving rivers across North America. It’s a great source of protein, fiber, and B vitamins, and it remains an essential part of both cultural traditions and sustainable foodways.
Let’s honor the deep connections between food, land, and heritage – and celebrate the incredible biodiversity that nourishes us all. 💚
Oct 16
