7 food businesses that started in lockdown

2020 was a year like no other. Many people had to innovate and seek new revenue streams, and there were some that made their way into the food industry for the first time, taking risks and giving it their best shot. Loss is often the seed of growth, even if we don’t always see it that way. Here are 7 new food businesses that were born in a pandemic.

Aioli Handcrafted Foods
Well-known event caterer and chef Annalize Buchanan and her team started an e-commerce business selling their mouthwatering handmade condiments under the brand name Aioli. The range includes their famous herb salad dressing, roasted garlic aioli and a heavenly salted caramel sauce.

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The Gourmet Shrine
This restaurant in Johannesburg’s Maboneng was started by Vusi Mkhabela, who used to sell food at markets. When he couldn’t do that due to lockdown, he began cooking from his home and marketing his wares on social media. This led to him landing a job in catering, which meant he was able to make enough money to rent a space to open his own restaurant. The Gourmet Shrine offers all-day breakfast and lunch. Think towering burgers, mogodu and more!

Plant-Based Creative
Respected cookbook publisher and culinary consultant Tamsin Snyman launched her consulting business called Plant-Based Creative. It involves developing plant-based products and providing consulting to families and restaurants with a view to creatively transitioning them to a more plant-based lifestyle.

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Minimalist Chocolate
Truth Coffee in Cape Town relied heavily on tourists, so when lockdown hit, owner David Donde had to think of a way to keep his staff employed. The answer came in the form of chocolate. But not just any chocolate. His team settled on cocoa and milk as the only two ingredients to go into the product. This unique recipe came about from being curious and deeply exploring the concept of flavour. It’s chocolate like no other and extremely delicious.

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Cakey by Davy
Davy Tsopo worked as a cleaner in a Joburg restaurant before lockdown and, sadly, like so many others, lost his job. With the help of his friends, he started learning how to bake and started making cakes to sell. He now runs his own baking business called Cakey by Davy. Choose between chocolate, vanilla or carrot.

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Mémé’s Mazavaroo
Soon to be husband-and-wife team Nikita Buxton and Nick Walker launched a chilli business in July 2020 to make some extra money and as a tribute to Nikita’s French Mauritian grandmother. The traditional chilli paste has a vibrant kick and adds extra oomph to almost any dish.

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Messy Bakes
Yolande Heyneke is a self-taught baker who specialises in all things cakes and cookies. Her sweet treats are perfect for everyday celebrations or special occasions. Browse her Instagram account and prepare to drool.