A fledging start-up was proudly launched in February 2020 – just before the Covid shutdown. “We had been working on products and developing recipes prior to the launch, and knew that we wanted to create a vertically integrated manufacturing company that produced value-added macadamia nut-based products,” says Taryn and Stef van der Westhuizen.
“Being foodies and loving a good cook up with wine in hand, we began experimenting with recipes to make with macadamia nuts,” says Taryn. “Stef’s family has been farming macs on their Nelsruit farm for about 14 years, and the farm has over 10 000 mac trees. Like many macs produced in South Africa, they are exported to China, Europe, the UK and the USA as a ” raw” nut in-shell product. We wanted to change this and create special, artisanal and unique South African food so that one day we can export finished products instead of raw materials.”
Their new range, cold-pressed macadamia nut oil, macadamia dukkahs (or rather makkahs) in three flavours – Durban Curry, North African and Chipotle Chilli – and mac-parma cheez, is 100% vegan and locally made. “We have been overwhelmed by the response to the range and are working hard to produce new innovative macadamia products,” says Taryn. “We offer a great reseller deal for anyone who wishes to distribute the range to their customers – a great job creation opportunity.”
“You can find us at the Shongweni Market every Saturday,” says Taryn, “and our range is also available at HomeGrown Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Hope Meats – Mackeurtan Drive, Durban North, Off the Shelf (Umhloti), Delicious Deli – Windermere Centre, Nouriti Cafe – La Lucia Mall.”
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