Today, we’d like to introduce you to Alana Stamper.
Hi Alana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Mama Alana’s Pantry was created through resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated passion for food that caters to specific dietary needs without compromising taste.
The mixes we offer are deeply personal for Mama Alana, a first-generation American of Italian descent, whose own experiences with chronic illness, including rare bone disease, Lyme Disease, and dietary restrictions, have shaped her culinary journey. After being diagnosed with celiac, she faced the challenge of severe reactions to cross-contaminated food, a concern shared by many with similar conditions.
This discovery was a turning point in her life, not just for herself but also for her family. With seven children, some of whom also required gluten-free and other allergy-friendly food options, the necessity to create safe, delicious, and nutritious meals became a labor of love.
This need sparked a quest to develop the perfect gluten-free bread – a bread that didn’t just meet the dietary requirements but also tasted great. The goal was ambitious: to produce a gluten-free bread that was soft, flavorful, and toasted just like traditional bread. This journey was marked by countless hours of experimenting and tweaking recipes to achieve the right balance of taste and texture.
The breakthrough came after much perseverance and failed attempts. After many years, Mama Alana was able to create a range of gluten-free and mostly vegan mixes that stood up to the taste test. What started as an endeavor to provide for her family quickly gained admiration beyond her household. Family and friends, many without dietary restrictions, found themselves surprised with the quality and taste of her baked goods. Their encouragement and rave reviews were the motivator for Mama Alana to share her creations with even more people.
Mama Alana’s Pantry, thus, is more than just a brand; it’s a story of overcoming personal health challenges and transforming them into a source of joy and nourishment for others. It embodies a fusion of traditional culinary practices with innovative, health-conscious baking techniques.
Each product from her pantry is a reflection of her journey – a journey that resonates with many who seek delicious, gluten-free options that feel and taste like ‘the real thing’. Her dedication and love for baking have not only fulfilled her dream but have also brought a new dimension to gluten-free baking, redefining its possibilities and reach.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Yes, four days after I finally started my business, I, while sitting, had a muscle spasm that dislocated my toe and broke a bone in my foot, along with tearing two tendons and a major ligament.
It led to me finally getting diagnosed with the painful rare bone disease I’ve had my whole life, and I’ve searched for answers. I had surgery and have been in a cast since September. I started my treatment, which included six injections a week for the rest of my life. It’s been really hard, but anything worthwhile is usually hard.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I used to design and make jewelry when I was younger. Then I always aimed to start my own bakery type of business. Then, when I was diagnosed and couldn’t eat gluten anymore, I had to change paths for a while. I’m a mom of five kids plus two stepkids, too. I relearned how to cook, and then my goal was to make my products better than any I’ve tasted that are already out there. Once I did I started back on my journey.
While I was in between I worked for a company as their chief administrative officer that teaches and certifies people in sound healing. We also sell the sound healing products. I loved my job but my goal was to save money to start my business. Eventually, I’d like a store front so people could get baked goods and then in the back manufacture our mixes in a more efficient manner.
I was in second place recently in the Greatest Baker contest semi-finals. I am proud making it that far with being a woman owned business that specializes in gluten-free, vegan, non-gmo and most allergen friendly food.
What does success mean to you?
Being able to help people eat real good food that’s also healthy and easy to make makes me feel good. Being a good example to my children that no matter how hard your path is you can still go for your goals/dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mamaalanaspantry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamaalanaspantry?igsh=NDNtMmU5amJkdHQ%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MamaAlanasPantry?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Mamaalanaspantry
- Other: https://pin.it/4V7Vk9r5i and https://www.tiktok.com/@mama.alanas.pantry?_t=8l28BmJQ1vy&_r=1
