Before Jeej! got its name, shape, and mission, it was merely the desire of individuals striving to spice up the world, to create something new, good, environmentally, and people-friendly. What started as a small, dedicated team combining diverse skills and experiences quickly evolved into a purposeful initiative. The founders recognized that their daily dietary challenges were not unique to them but a widespread issue in today’s fast-paced world, where people seek quick, healthy meal options amid their busy schedules. Inspired by the wisdom of their grandmothers they set out to make healthy eating accessible to everyone.
With this vision in mind, Jeej! was born – offering healthy, ready-to-eat, whole food plant-based meals conveniently packaged in glass jars. This innovative concept was brought to life by the cooperative Via Vitae, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable lifestyles.
Jeej!’s purpose is clear and vital: to offer customers delicious, fresh, and nutritious meals that are always within reach, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. Their goal is to inspire more people to adopt a plant-based diet, making it easier to enjoy sustainable, meat-free options without compromising on taste or convenience. Jeej! embodies the belief that small, consistent changes in our eating habits can lead to a healthier lifestyle and a better planet.
What began as a product idea has grown into a movement – a commitment to fostering a healthier, more sustainable way of life for everyone.
SUCCESS FACTORS
Local Ingredients: One of the primary factors driving Jeej!’s success is its commitment to using locally and sustainably grown ingredients. Most of their raw materials come from Slovenia or the EU and are sourced through eco-friendly farming methods like EKO-BIO, permaculture, and agroforestry. This focus on sustainable sourcing not only supports regional agriculture but also ensures the highest quality and freshness of their ingredients.
Transparency and Traceability: Jeej! stands out for its dedication to complete transparency regarding the origin of its ingredients. Customers can easily trace the source and production methods of each component by scanning a QR code on the lid of their meals. This level of openness builds consumer trust and sets Jeej! apart in an industry where transparency is often lacking.
Product Range: As a pioneer in plant-based nutrition, Jeej! offers a range of ready-to-eat meals that are completely vegan and vegetarian-friendly. They emphasize nutrient preservation through minimal processing, ensuring that their meals provide high nutritional value while catering to the growing demand for meat-free and health-conscious options.
Sustainable Packaging: Jeej!’s commitment to sustainability extends to its packaging, which is made from recyclable and reusable materials like glass jars, tin lids, and minimal paper labels, which only reduces waste but also aligns with their goal of minimizing the environmental impact of their products.