Tofu, often touted as a versatile and nutritious superfood, finds itself in a complex love-hate relationship with many. According to a 2015 study, a mere 35% of Americans claim to enjoy tofu, while the majority of respondents attribute their reluctance to its flavour.
But this is quickly changing. In 2020, Nielsen data highlights a remarkable 40% increase in tofu sales during the first half of 2020 compared to the previous year.
Tofu has been a staple in many Asian cuisines and a favourite among vegetarians and vegans worldwide. It is made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the resulting curds into a solid white block. It is low in saturated fat and a great source of plant-based protein, making it an attractive choice for those looking to boost their protein intake without consuming meat.
While tofu’s nutrition is beyond dispute, its taste remains the primary hurdle for many. Tofu, in its natural state, is often described as bland, and its texture can be off-putting to some.
This is where Epic Tofu enters the spotlight. Led by co-founders Amy Bronstetter and Jennifer Zimmermann, Epic Tofu is a Quebec-based food start-up that is dedicated to “a mission to clear tofu of its bland reputation while helping you make healthy, more sustainable food choices.”
Epic Tofu: A Journey Rooted in Friendship
The story of Epic Tofu began when Bronstetter and Zimmermann crossed paths in a mommy group shortly after the birth of their second children. What started as conversations about babies, breastfeeding, and bottles evolved into something much greater: a dream of business partnership.
However, with the demands of motherhood and established careers, the idea of launching a business together remained a fleeting thought. Life had its way of keeping them busy, and the dream stayed dormant.
As time marched on, they continued to nurture their families and careers, developing a strong bond of friendship. Then, an unforeseen global pandemic arrived, turning the world on its head. Suddenly, everything slowed down, and the pace of life shifted. Parenting became an around-the-clock endeavour, and without the usual childcare support, Amy and Jenn found themselves with an abundance of time to reflect.
In the midst of uncertainty and challenges, a spark of inspiration ignited their entrepreneurial spirits. The pandemic led to shortages of many essential items, including food. Tofu, a staple in their lives, became a sought-after commodity, and the specific favourite, smoked tofu, was nowhere to be found. It was during this time of scarcity that the idea for their venture took root.
“If we can’t buy flavoured tofu, we’ll make our own!” This notion became their rallying cry. Not only would they produce tofu for themselves, but they were determined to make it even better than what was available on the market. Their commitment to quality and flavour spurred them into action.
A Flavorful Transformation
Epic Tofu’s product lineup is plentiful. From Blackstrap BBQ Marinated Tofu Slabs to Chickenless Tofu Chunks, their offerings cater to a variety of tastes.
For those who love a little heat, the Chili-Lime Strip Taco Tofu is a zesty option, while the Fakin’ Bacon Smoky Tofu Strips offer a smoky and savoury experience. The range extends to Korean Beefless Tofu Strips, Pulled Porkless Soy & Shiitake Shreds, and more. Each product is meticulously crafted to elevate plant-based cuisine.
Recognized Excellence
Most recently, Epic Tofu received two prestigious awards at Quebec’s MATCH DUX event, which celebrates agri-food start-ups. Among 15 impressive finalists, Epic Tofu emerged as one of the five pitch winners, showcasing the excellence of their products.
Additionally, they were honoured with the Prix Pigeon for their remarkable brand storytelling, visual impact, and packaging.
Where to Shop Epic Tofu
Epic Tofu is currently available for purchase at Cool & Simple stores. The company also offers delivery for customers located in Montreal and the surrounding area. More retail locations are said to start stocking their products soon.
All images in this article are courtesy of Epic Tofu.
