Vegans and zero waste fans, unite!
I always enjoy attending The Wellness Show because it’s just after the start of the new year, when most people’s resolutions have died and they need that extra kick in the ass to get motivated or just learn more ideas on how to be healthier. Whether it’s dieting, fitness, mental health, cooking, or adornment, this show – now in its 27th year – always has a good variety of vendors (250+), speakers (over 100), demos, and even classes. It’s also been awhile since I’ve done some walking and shopping, and shows like this are a great way to do both! Interviewing and meeting Lori Joyce of Betterwith Ice Cream and the Cupcakes franchise was one of my highlights of last year, thanks to this show.
I’m excited to share my top 5 vegan items to see and try at this year’s show, with an exciting contest to follow.
These raw bars come in 3 flavours. Its magic mineral ingredient is gluten-free teff seeds. Teff — commonly used in traditional Ethiopian flat bread — is a slow release carb, so you get sustained energy from the natural sugar. Though marketed to runners, it’s a good choice for all types of athletes. High in fibre & carbs, and low in fat & calories, and the mocha and cranberry orange flavours provide 10% of your daily iron requirement (hello!). A great one to try during hiking season!
2. LOOP Mission raw cold-pressed juice
Montreal-based LOOP is the new juice kid on the block, but in just a short time they’ve unleashed an impressive product line of cold-pressed juices, with a mission to “repurpose the outcasts of the food industry by transforming them into awesome drinks.” Try the Loco Local, new for this year using apples, blueberries and other local fruit, or Morning Glory, their best-selling version of a classic OJ, but with added clementines and strawberries.
3. GluteNull Bakery‘s Lemon Coconut Cookies
As if you already weren’t convinced by the words lemon, coconut, and cookies, this Coquitlam-based bakery’s new best-sellers are also keto-friendly and gluten-free. They’re sweetened with Swerve, making them 0 calories in sugar. I mean, COME ON. Think it’s still too wintery for lemon & coconut? Their chewy ginger squares are also a solid bet.
4. Natera’s Hemp Protein 369
It’s no secret that I’m not a smoothie fan — I’m a Pitta girl so I need warm breakfasts. If I wanted a protein smoothie though, I’d grab Natera’s HempOmega powder (in vanilla caramel or chocolate banana), packed with proteins, ginseng, omegas 3, 6 & 9, minerals, vitamins, anti-oxidants, and fibre. Not only is the hemp sustainably grown in Canada, but this product’s also gluten-free, nut-free, and non-GMO. And I could use this on salads, baked goods, or straight up with fruits or veg. Get out the way, whey!
5. Wild Mountain Chocolate‘s Caffe Mocha Bar
As much as I wanted to avoid chocolate…it’s inevitable. And truth be told, not all chocolates are vegan. But enter Wild Mountain’s organic, vegan Caffe Mocha, which has the taste of a rich, creamy flavoured bean that pairs so well with coffee. Refined with organic, whole bean, locally-sourced coffee, it has all the richness of your favourite mocha. Just get this in my belly, stat.
Honourable Mention: Brush Naked Bamboo Toothbrushes
Though not a food product, Vancouver’s own Brush Naked will be selling their toothbrushes, made from moso bamboo. Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, and once you’re done with your toothbrush, you can snap off the head and throw the handle in the compost (I do this with mine and love it). Check out their whangee straws too! It’s only a matter of time before plastic straws and toothbrushes become passe in our city.
Contest time!
I’m excited to be able to give away two tickets and a copy of
To enter, do one of the following by the contest deadline, 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, January 29, 2019:
Doing more than one will get you more entries!
The winner will be informed either by e-mail or social media, and you will need to pick up your prize at the show. You must be aged 18+ to enter.
Good luck!
This contest is now closed and the winner has been contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!
The Wellness Show takes place on Saturday February 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Vancouver Convention Centre West building (1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3).
For more information and tickets, visit thewellnessshow.com.
