Australia’s first low carb bakery, based on the Sunshine Coast has reopened after a six-month hiatus.
Palena Fresh, famous for its low carb meals, officially opened its doors on 19 February and is ready to satisfy cravings with its extensive range of sweet and savoury items.
Operating from its Warana-based facility, this isn’t your typical bakery; it is an online haven for ketogenic (keto), gluten-free and diabetic-friendly delights.
Founder and chef Mel Horvat, known for her delectable and health-conscious meals, is once again enchanting taste buds with cheesy-mite scrolls, sausage rolls, cheesecakes, carrot cake and loads more savoury and sweet delights.
Beyond its tasty creations, Palena Fresh underscores the health benefits of the keto diet, proven to manage chronic pain and offer relief for conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, obesity, autoimmune conditions and more.
Having all items gluten-free means coeliacs and folks looking to avoid gluten will also be well looked after by the carefully constructed menu of items.
After working as a chef for 13 years, Mel broke free from processed norms and embarked on a life changing journey in 2018 initially crafting keto pizza bases in her home kitchen before expanding to a larger facility to keep up with demand.
Despite its indefinite closure in mid-2023 due to a number of reasons including owner-burnout, Palena Fresh has been resurrected thanks to the input of a local customer and entrepreneur Michael James.
A raving Palena Fresh fan, Mr James seized the opportunity to help relaunch the business, aiming to bring back the beloved bakery to the delight of its nationwide fanbase.
Founder Mel Horvat expressed her gratitude in the businesses’ revival, stating the return of Palena Fresh is not just a bakery reopening; it is a celebration of flavour, health and community support.
“After a much-needed break to recharge, it’s amazing to be back supporting the community who have stood by me, believed in the products we create and supported my business through ups and downs.
“Palena Fresh is back stronger than ever with more structure and support from a fantastic team which will help alleviate the burnout and other challenges I experienced in the past,” Ms Horvat said.
Co-owner Michael James added the closure of the business brought about devastation among customers including himself, as they relied on the food to enhance their quality of health.
“Mel’s knowledge for not only the food industry, but also the keto and low carb lifestyle, combined with her passion to help people is what makes this business truly unique.
“I’m thrilled to work alongside Mel and her team as we cook up a storm and create a flavoursome range of products to help improve the health and wellbeing of our community,” said Mr James.
Palena Fresh is now ready to satisfy cravings with its extensive range of keto delights.
Online orders and local pickups are available at palenafresh.com.au.
Those interested in joining the Palena Fresh family, employment opportunities, including production and packing roles, can be explored by emailing info@palenafresh.com.au
