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Featured VentureMom: Mackenzie Varthi — Founder of Maja

We often think about eating well in January—and what better place to look than @majafood. Maja is the plant-based, gluten-free brand redefining what it means to enjoy wholesome treats. From protein-rich overnight oats to homemade-but-healthier cookies, pancakes, and birthday cakes, Maja makes it easy for families to enjoy the classics—without compromise.

For founder Mackenzie Varthi, Maja started with two things that shaped her life: a deep love of baking and a desire to create food that truly includes everyone. A longtime vegan, Mackenzie has always been passionate about seeking out plant-based options—whether in her hometown or on her travels. After her father’s battle with cancer, she became even more committed to nourishing, high-quality, whole-food pantry staples. But as a mom with limited time, she found it nearly impossible to source baking mixes that were vegan, allergen-friendly, and tasted like the treats she grew up making.

So she asked herself the question that launched her business:

“What if healthy, allergen-friendly baking could be simple, fast, and genuinely delicious?”

She went to work in her kitchen, transforming her own everyday breakfast recipe into Maja’s signature overnight protein oats. Then she began developing baking mixes free from gluten, dairy, and eggs—crafted with simple, recognizable ingredients that still delivered the flavors she loved since childhood. Her goal was straightforward: create plant-based, high-protein breakfasts and comforting baked goods that busy families could make in minutes.

Today, Maja is a mission-driven baking mix and overnight oats company committed to making wholesome, homemade treats accessible to everyone. Every product is thoughtfully designed to fuel active days, support healthy living, and invite more people to the table—regardless of dietary needs.

Mackenzie’s commitment goes far beyond the pantry. As proud members of 1% for the Planet, Maja prioritizes sustainability and gives back to organizations like No Kid Hungry and Securing Safe Food, helping fight child hunger and food insecurity with every sale.

Delicious, inclusive, planet-friendly food—made for everyone. That’s the heart of Maja. And like so many VentureMoms, Mackenzie turned her personal passion, her family story, and her desire to make life better for others into a thriving, purpose-filled brand.

 

VentureMom Tip
If you can’t find what your family needs, create it.