Highlights From The 2015 Natural Products Expo West!

March 23rd, 2015 - filed under: Furthermore » Reviews

all the vegans at expo west

How many vegans can you fit in a photo booth? (featuring Conscious Chris, The Vegan Zombie, The [other] Vegan Zombie, Michelle from Vegan Break, Jill from Vegan Cuts, Jackie from Vegan Yak Attack, The Sexy Vegan, Kylie from Fellowship Of The Vegetable, and many more!)



I did it! I FINALLY made it to Expo West!

Two years in a row I secured a press pass, got everything all lined up, scheduled the time off . . . and then had to cancel my trip at the last minute. Two years in a row I missed my chance, but this year, I finally made it. EXPO!

For those of you unfamiliar, Expo West is the largest natural products convention in the world. It takes place annually at the Anaheim Convention Center, and sees over 70,000 people perusing the thousands of companies exhibiting their latest and greatest natural food, supplement, bath and body, and eco-lifestyle products.

But . . . mostly food.

Beyond Meat at Expo West

The Beyond Meat booth was made to look like a fast food counter, and they were slingin’ their brand new Beast Burger sliders and Beyond Chicken Tenders. And then after 4, beer. Lots of beer.


It’s funny at Expo, trying to make sense of it all. I had this really interesting conversation with Tess (aka The Blender Girl) and Whitney (aka Eco Vegan Gal) and Cobi (aka Veggietorials) on the last afternoon of the conference. We had discovered these brand new potato chips that taste like chicken noodle soup (no lie, they literally taste like chicken noodle soup! But they’re vegan of course) and they were one of the best and unique things that any of us had tasted. But then we were reading the ingredients and, yeah, pretty bad. And Tess said something along the lines of “Yeah well, at Expo there’s sort of like, 2 different things going on. On the one hand you have the coolest, most cutting edge, most incredible food science innovation. And then on the other hand, you have all these exciting and incredibly healthy new products. But those are basically two totally separate things.”

And she’s right. And it got me thinking, as I drove myself and a trunk full of product samples, and also half of a 37 pound fresh jackfruit, 3 hours home to Santa Barbara.

What would my readers be interested in? Cutting edge food science innovation? (you guyssss the new cheeses are crazy, crazy I say! SO good. Daiya ready-made mac is what dreams are made of)

Or the most creative, most whole-foods-plant-based, absolute healthiest new foods? (like you guys, Miyoko’s Kitchen makes amazing artisan vegan cheeses using whole, natural ingredients and applying ancient, traditional cheesemaking techniques. And they’re SO good!)

And then I realized, that really, I – and my readers too I’m guessing – appreciate both. Because we believe in balance. Because we know that processed foods, though maybe not the healthiest, is also a wonderful treat that make veganism more accessible and more enjoyable. And we know that the healthiest foods are equally as important, to keep us nourished and strong and happy and vibrant. It’s all about balance, and embracing the entire spectrum of vegan options.

But then, I began to think about what’s really important to me. Like if I were to make my “Best Of Expo” list, what would be my most important criteria? Food science innovation? Ultimate health?


uptons jackfruit expo west

The infamous 37-pound jackfruit. From Upton’s, who will be releasing their packages of pre-cooked, pre-seasoned jackfruit in “BBQ” and “Chili Lime Carnitas” coming this summer!


But no. For me, it’s just about integrity. A company that’s ethically intersectional, holistic, and truly eco-friendly. Not just vegan. Not just healthy. I want to witness the next level of food production, where everything is taken into account. That’s what’s important to me.

And I bet that’s important to you, too.

So this year I’m giving out three awards. #1 – for the Best Food Science Break-Through, #2 – for the Best New Healthy Option, and #3 – the Integrity Award.

Plus pics of all the other goodies, and oh-so-many shenanigans! Without further ado, I present: Highlights From The 2015 Natural Products Expo West

getting lost at Expo West

Brian and Kylie and I . . . a little bit lost in the convention center.


flower water at Expo West
This flower-essence-infused water by Blossom Water was a stand-out new product. SO refreshing!


Daiya cheddar mac and cheeseDaiya mac and cheese

The new boxed mac by Daiya, in cheddar (left) and alfredo veggie (right). Soooo good.



1) Best Food Science Break-Through

Daiya Cheesecakes
image via Choose Veg


I have eaten a lot of vegan cheesecake. A LOT. More than my share I’d say – raw, cooked, homemade, gourmet, at restaurants, tofu-based, cashew-based, and on and on. I adore cheesecake and before I went vegan it was probably one of my top 3 favorite desserts. And vegan cheesecake is okay, but it’s never been quite the same as the original. It’s always lacked that . . . I don’t know . . . tang? There’s a certain soury tart je ne sais quoi that vegan cheesecake has been missing . . . until now. And now, Daiya nailed it.

Daiya cheesecake drops in Whole Foods and health food stores across the nation, like ASAP. Like this week.

GO GET IT.


follow your heart expo west

The Follow Your Heart booth was so cute! They have a whole line of new block cheeses that just hit the markets. I’ll be posting a full review coming soon!


Beyond Meat Expo West
Muggin’ with Joni from Just The Food.


Toms at Expo West
Great new stuff from my friends at Tom’s.


So Abby at Expo West
And Abby from the So Abby Show was so impressed with the folks at Tom’s that she made an impromptu video in the booth.


Miyoko cheese at Expo West
Miyoko’s cheeses are OFF. THE. HOOK. I was so happy to finally taste them!



2) Best New Healthy Option

Hemp Bites at Expo West

I was a little hesitant to pick these as my winner for “healthy option” because they contain sugar, but in the end I had to do it. These Hemp Heart Bites by Manitoba Harvest were simply my favorite, and I haven’t seen anything else like them out there. Just organic hulled hemp seeds with organic cane sugar, a bit of vanilla and a hint of sea salt.

THESE ARE SO TASTY. They’re kinda crunchy and kinda chewy. They remind me of a Bit-O-Honey or the inside of a Butterfinger, but of course they’re full of protein (10 grams per serving!) and healthy omega 3 fatty acids. These would be great for an after school kid snack . . .

. . . Too bad Jeremy and I ate them all before Waits could try them (they were too good!)


Justins vegan peanut butter cups

Had to fight Brian for the giant bag of Justin’s vegan peanut butter cups!


Teese at Expo West
One of the original vegan cheeses, and still one of my very favorites (especially after they reformulated soy-free!). The Teese cheese sauce makes the very best nachos, for reals.


Green Toys at Expo West
It was fun to see the whole line of Green Toys – and to see how much the line has expanded since I first found it! Made in America entirely from recycled milk jugs and plastic bags. I just adore this company, and Waits grew up playing with their trucks. ♥


TaDah Foods at Expo West
This company makes frozen “falafel bites” with a hidden hummus center. HELLO! These are amazing – look for them coming to a Whole Foods near you.


So Delicious at Expo West
Breaking! Breaking! Ice cream made from cashews does, in fact, taste rich-creamy-delectable-delicious. Shocking, I know.


Kylie and Sayward at Expo West
Shenanigans. So. Many. Shenanigans.




3) Integrity Award

one degree veganic cereal

And finally, the winner of my “Integrity Award” goes to One Degree Organic Foods, for their organic, VEGANIC line of whole grain products: cereals, breads, flours, and seeds. Speaking with the folks at this booth was like a big bright breath of fresh air. These are good people, and they really care, and they’re really pushing the boundaries of sustainable food production.

Oh yeah, and they have chocolate rice crispies* so they WIN. (*by which I mean veganic sprouted brown rice crisps made with organic coconut sugar and organic cacao)

You can read more about this amazing company, and their amazing commitment to Integrity, here

~~~

And well, that about wraps it up for my 2015 Expo West report. It was a lot of work and a lot of fun, and I just can’t wait for next year!

And I’m sure you’ve seen all the bloggers recapping with all their highlights, so what about you guys – what products are YOU most excited about? Let me know in the comments below!

Oh and PS – Michelle from Vegan Break put together this adorable video => “Vegans Invade Expo”, and it’s funny to me how many times my blue hair pops up in the background. I definitely don’t blend in!

Also you can see Colleen Patrick-Goudreau creepin’ on my beer. Shenanigans!





Cheers!

♥ ♥ ♥

  • jhon leoo

    Vanguard Login offers a range of investment products and services. By logging into your Vanguard account, you can view your portfolio holdings, track the performance of your investments, make trades, contribute to your accounts, and access important account documents and statements.

    Vanguard Login is a secure online platform that allows you to access and manage your Vanguard investment accounts. As one of the world’s largest investment management companies. The login process typically requires your username or account number, along with a password or PIN for authentication.

    vanguard 401k login offers a wide selection of mutual funds and ETFs to choose from, and consolidating your assets at Vanguard can make it easier to focus on your investments . You can also check out their online learning center for quick-hit, easy-to-understand education and tools that will help you stay on top of your financial game.

  • https://sites.google.com/view/cryptocomlogin-issues/home Ricky Luish

    How we can connect our [b][url=https://sites.google.com/metamaskioextension.com/metamasksignin/home]MetaMask extension [/url][/b] with decentralized applications (dApps). So, if you are a MetaMask user and excited to experience something new by adding the decentralized apps manually, hover over the read carefully as we will get you covered with all the needful essentials.

  • Arpit Sharma

    Sex Job For Man All Over India Joining We provide playboys to high profile female clients, urgently required gigolos ( Call boys ) playboy, for our high profile female & male clients in India all cities, you can earn 5000 to 10,000 in a day, and in a night, massage home service is also available for boy, only interested boys call now.
    https://nightkinggigolo.com/

  • Amit Rathee

    Sex Job For Man All Over India Joining We provide playboys to high profile female clients, urgently required gigolos ( Call boys ) playboy, for our high profile female & male clients in India all cities, you can earn 5000 to 10,000 in a day, and in a night, massage home service is also available for boy, only interested boys call now.
    https://indianplayboyjob.net/

  • jadmason

    [url=https://sites.google.com/metamaskioextension.com/metamaskextensionn/home]MetaMask chrome Extension[/url] To install the for your Chrome browser, follow these simple steps. Begin by opening the Chrome Web Store and searching for “MetaMask.” Once you locate the extension, click “Add to Chrome” and then “Add extension” to initiate the installation. After installation, you’ll notice the MetaMask fox icon in the top-right corner of your browser.

    [url=https://sites.google.com/metamaskioextension.com/metamaskextension/home]MetaMask chrome Extension[/url] on Chrome effortlessly by visiting the Chrome Web Store, searching for “MetaMask,” and clicking “Add to Chrome.” Complete the installation by selecting “Add extension.” Look for the MetaMask fox icon in the top-right corner.

  • jadmason

    MetaMask chrome Extension To install the for your Chrome browser, follow these simple steps. Begin by opening the Chrome Web Store and searching for “MetaMask.” Once you locate the extension, click “Add to Chrome” and then “Add extension” to initiate the installation. After installation, you’ll notice the MetaMask fox icon in the top-right corner of your browser.

    MetaMask chrome Extension on Chrome effortlessly by visiting the Chrome Web Store, searching for “MetaMask,” and clicking “Add to Chrome.” Complete the installation by selecting “Add extension.” Look for the MetaMask fox icon in the top-right corner.

  • https://sites.google.com/startledger.us/ledgerlive-notworking/home copof10539

    Coinbase, as my training only includes data up until January 2022. However, if you’re experiencing issues with Coinbase’s advanced trading features, there are a few general steps you can take.Visit the Coinbase status page or their official social media channels to see if there are any reported issues or maintenance activities. Exchanges often update users about ongoing problems through these channels.
    Coinbase advanced trading not working |
    Coinbase not Working |
    Coinbase identity verification not working

  • Steffean

    CoinMarketCap is a top cryptocurrency data platform, providing real-time prices, market stats, and comprehensive information on various cryptocurrencies for investors and traders.
    Coinmarketcap Exchange
    CoinMarketCap App Download
    CoinMarketCap

  • hayden
  • https://sites.google.com/metamaklog.com/metamask-crome/home lina janker

    For individualized help with Coinbase device confirmation, it’s imperative to get in touch with Coinbase support.

    Coinbase Device confirmation troubleshooting
    Coinbase delayed transactions
    coinbase add payment method not working
    Change Coinbase Password

  • ramyaspaban

    Beyond physical relaxation, female to male massage near me can promote mental clarity, reduce anxiety, and alleviate symptoms of depression by providing a soothing and comforting experience.

  • Gopika s

    once try the service we provide and you will know the importance of our b2b massage in chennai services, all the hot massage girl therapists serving here are capable of making you happy

  • Brayn Methin

    Ledger Live supports a wide array of cryptocurrencies and tokens, allowing users to manage their diverse portfolios efficiently. From Bitcoin to Ethereum and an array of altcoins, Ledger Live ensures that users can stay on top of their holdings effortlessly.

  • sutramassage

    Massage can be adapted to suit various fitness levels, ages, and physical abilities. visit female to male massage near me

  • bibef95562

    The prestigious Elan Imperial project situated in sector 82 offers one of the best iconic places for commercial use. Investing with Elan Group help you elevate your business to new heights due to its strategic location and eye-catching luxurious building modern art construction.
    Elan Imperial Sector 82 |
    Elan Sector 82 |

  • Dimpal Yadav

    I am Dimpal Yadav, Escort service in Mussoorie and 22 years old, Mussoorie Escorts. I can assure you that your meeting with me will exceed your wildest dreams. You will still have sex with me and you will leave our date with a smile on your face. I consider myself a good lover who is willing to try educated men who know what they want and how to treat me. Because I have extensive experience in giving and receiving massages, I offer you a relaxing, sensual massage. My specialty is flattering, gently building tantric massage with body-to-body elements. It is my pleasure to use my entire body to soothe you, gradually building your desire until it reaches a pleasurable release.

    https://www.dimpalyadav.com/mussoorie-escorts-service/

  • DLF Camellias 2 Sector 54

    Safety has to be the priority of every individual. In my opinion, Krisumi Waterfall Suites Sector 36A is one of the safest properties in the town. DLF Camellias 2 Sector 54 in Sector 54 Gurgaon is a landmark residential community by a reputed DLF Developer, positioned at one of the poshest regions of India at DLF 5 nearby Golf Course Road Gurgaon.

  • https://www.spaleela.com Spa leela

    body to body massage near me are challenge your balance, which can help you stay steady on your mind in everyday life.

  • https://sites.google.com/coinbselogs.com/procoinbasecomlogin/home maria smiths

    coinbase.com Currently every person is talking about cryptocurrency and in this one of the most common that has been in use is Blockchain. Coinbase is a secure online platform for buying, selling, transferring, and storing cryptocurrency.

  • https://callmaya.in callmaya

    Hello there, everyone. Maya Rani here; I’m a call girl in Hyderabad. Please take advantage of this fantastic chance; I’m even willing to offer you the whole girlfriend experience. I can provide you with top-notch service. I’m a cuddly and jovial guy, so we’ll have a blast. I enjoy making my customers happy, so I’m here to make you feel good in all dirty ways.

  • https://callmaya.in callmaya

    Are you looking for a Call Girl in Chandigarh? Chdagency is the No1 Call Girls Agency that has the Most Beautiful & Sexy Escort Girls at 3500 Rs with Free Hotel. Our Chandigarh Call Girls are available 24/7 for sex service. so hurry up and get an independent Chandigarh Call Girl.

  • https://elanpresidential2.in amit seo

    All the residential and commercial projects from Elan Group are located at the most strategic location.This ensures the buyers get an elegant living experience and high returns for the investors. There are several ongoing projects from the Elan projects like Elan Empire, Elan the Mark, Elan The Presidential, and Elan Epic etc. You must visit the sites of the projects to ensure that the Elan Group in Gurgaon delivers what it promises.

  • https://sites.google.com/elanimperialggn.in/elansector82/home Anisa Bell
  • https://sites.google.com/metamaklog.com/metamask-crome/home lina janker

    A wallet for cryptocurrencies and entry point to blockchain apps is called metamask extension. MetaMask is a browser extension that lets users interact with decentralized applications right from their browsers, in contrast to traditional wallets. Since its 2016 launch, MetaMask has been widely used because of its ease of use, security features, and compatibility with a number of blockchain networks.
    metamask extension

  • delhinyt

    Delhi Call Girl Services acknowledges that their customers must finally make sure they believe that the Ladies’ Reality Wellbeing Association is the primary entity that would fulfill their desires for love and sex.

  • https://sites.google.com/uscryptocomlogin.com/cryptocom-signin/home Jack

    Not everyone can use the hardware devices to keep their assets in, some of them prefer to use software wallet applications for it. But there are too many options available to choose from. Most of the time, traders are in confusion which wallet should they use. And to answer that, we suggest you go for the Metamask extension. After the MetaMask login, you will experience the features like never before. This wallet has a perfect combination of features suitable for novice users as well as professional traders. You can learn several different things about the crypto market here. Also, this wallet only offers you the list of ERC-20 tokens, so if you are comfortable with this, you need to set up your wallet account on it. However, one thing you need to remember is that the wallet does not have a strong customer support service. It is available but not 24/7 and if that is not the issue, quickly set up your account and execute the MetaMask Sign in process to store all of the assets in it. If you somehow land on a problem, then just execute some of the troubleshooting measures and usually these steps help the users. Read More:-Metamask Sign in| MetaMask sign up

  • MetaMask Not Working

    The MetaMask App is a mobile extension of the Ethereum ecosystem, available on iOS and Android platforms. As a secure non-custodial wallet, it empowers users to manage Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens on the go. MetaMask Browser Extension is a secure Ethereum wallet seamlessly integrated as a browser extension. MetaMask Extension ensures the security of digital assets. With features supporting decentralized finance (DeFi), token swaps, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
    MetaMask App |MetaMask Browser Extension |MetaMask Extension |

  • http://getdlfhomes.in Get DLF Homes
  • https://www.spasweety.com SWEETY SPA

    body massage centre in hyderabad spa offers a safe-haven from the buzzing about of day to day existence, where stresses liquefy away and time appears to stop.

  • vip bodyspa

    Yoga can help relax the mind with yoga postures and breathing exercises however massage can also help increase circulation throughout the body and we can do the whole package of treatment at nuru massage in chennai center

  • Elaninfra

    [b][b]Elan Infra: Elevating Urban Spaces[/b][/b]
    [b][url=https://elaninfra.in/][b]elan group[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-the-presidential/][b]elan presidential[/b][/url][b] , [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-empire/][b]elan empire[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-epic/][b]elan epic[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-mercado/][b]elan mercado[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-the-mark/][b]elan the mark[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-town-centre/][b]elan town centre[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-miracle/][b]elan miracle[/b][/url][b], [/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/elan-paradise/][b]elan paradise[/b][/url][b],[/b][url=https://elaninfra.in/projects-on-dwarka-expressway/][b] Elan Projects on Dwarka Expressway[/b][/url][/b]

  • massage centre near me

    It doesn’t matter whether this pain was caused by physical or mental stress, the b2b spa near me will work it for you.

  • Elaninfra

    Elan Infra: Modern Living Solutions
    Elan Group is quickly reaching the heights of success by delivering luxurious residential and commercial properties in Gurgaon. Elan Limited is leading with the resolution to build the country by fueling commercial activities through exquisite real estate developments like Elan Mercado, Elan Miracle, and Elan Town Centre.   The masterfully planned commercial and housing projects become the preferred choice of real estate buyers and investors. Over time, Elan Group in Gurgaon became a name inseparable from meticulous designs and unparalleled quality. Elan Group in Gurgaon is redefining the living standard of the people by meeting their expectations as the developers understand the requirements of the new age generation.

  • MetaMask Not Working

    Metamask is a popular cryptocurrency wallet and browser extension that enables users to interact with the Ethereum blockchain and decentralized applications (dApps) directly from their web browsers. It serves as a bridge between traditional web browsers and blockchain technology, allowing users to manage their Ethereum-based assets and access various decentralized services seamlessly.
    Metamask app |

  • https://whitelandaspenone.in whitelandaspen

    One of the most important resources for understanding the intricacies of the bitcoin market is the MetaMask Chrome Wallet Extension. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in decentralized money and blockchain technology because of its user-friendly design, strong security features, and smooth integration with Ethereum dApps. Regardless of your experience level with cryptocurrency trading, MetaMask enables you to quickly and securely unlock the Ethereum ecosystems full potential.MetaMask Chrome |MetaMask Extension

  • https://sites.google.com/view/metamaskwallettextension/home MetaMask Wallet Extension

    MetaMask Wallet Extension offers a seamless and secure gateway to the world of decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 applications. With its user-friendly interface and robust security features, MetaMask enables users to effortlessly manage their Ethereum-based assets, interact with decentralized applications (dApps), and execute transactions on the Ethereum blockchain.
    Download MetaMask Wallet Extension |
    MetaMask Extension

  • https://sites.google.com/elanimperialggn.in/elansector82/home Anisa Bell

    In the unique scene of digital currency exchanging and the executives, stages like crypto.com login issues stand out enough to be noticed because of their easy to understand connection points and extensive highlights. In any case, similar to any computerized administration, clients might experience crypto login issues that can hinder their experience. | trezor suite is an exhaustive programming stage intended to work flawlessly with Trezor equipment wallets, giving clients a safe and easy to understand climate for dealing with their digital currencies. Trezor Suite offers a strong and easy to understand stage for dealing with your digital money resources with the security and inner serenity given by Trezor equipment wallets.

  • DLF Privana West

    Experience luxury living at its finest with DLF Privana West, located in Sector 76, Gurgaon. This exclusive residential enclave offers unparalleled comfort and sophistication, setting a new standard for modern living in the bustling city.
    Discover the epitome of elegance and convenience with DLF Privana West Sector 76 Gurgaon, where every aspect of urban lifestyle is meticulously crafted to cater to your every need.
    Explore the meticulously designed residences of DLF Privana West sector 76 Gurgaon, where architectural brilliance meets contemporary design, promising a lifestyle of unmatched opulence.
    Unlock the door to your dream home with DLF Privana Price, offering competitive rates for premium living spaces that redefine luxury living in Gurgaon’s Sector 76.
    Immerse yourself in the spacious and thoughtfully designed layouts of DLF Privana Floor Plan, where every corner is optimized to enhance your living experience and provide utmost comfort.
    Experience the pinnacle of urban living with DLF Privana Gurgaon, a prestigious address synonymous with luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.
    Be among the first to seize the opportunity of DLF Privana New launch, where a new era of sophisticated living awaits you in the heart of Gurgaon’s Sector 76.
    Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated DLF Privana launch date, as this prestigious development promises to redefine luxury living and set new benchmarks in residential excellence.