Michelle Obama Launches Nutrition Company, PLEZi

The launch of PLEZi Nutrition aligns with the prevailing challenges faced by American children, as approximately half of young children in the country do not consume fruits and vegetables daily, while many consume excessive amounts of sugary drinks. Even products marketed as healthy may still contain high levels of sugar or sweeteners.

Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States, is embarking on a new venture as the co-founder of PLEZi Nutrition, a company dedicated to providing tasty and healthy food and beverages for children. The company made its official announcement on Wednesday, revealing its initial product line of low-sugar, nutrient-dense kids’ drinks made from a blend of fruit juice.

During her speech at the Wall Street Journal Future of Everything Festival, Mrs. Obama expressed her belief in the possibility of creating a successful company while prioritizing the well-being of children.

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“I’m putting some skin in the game to put this theory to the test,” she stated.

As First Lady, Mrs. Obama championed healthy habits through the Let’s Move campaign, advocating for nutritious school meals and encouraging food companies and restaurants to offer lower-sugar, lower-salt, and lower-calorie options.

Recognizing the need for systemic change within the food and beverage industry, Mrs. Obama emphasized the importance of working from within to bring about meaningful transformation.

The launch of PLEZi Nutrition aligns with the prevailing challenges faced by American children, as approximately half of young children in the country do not consume fruits and vegetables daily, while many consume excessive amounts of sugary drinks. Even products marketed as healthy may still contain high levels of sugar or sweeteners.

To address this issue, there is a growing focus on reforming the food supply chain to offer healthier alternatives that resonate with consumers.

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Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and Professor of Nutrition at Tufts University, highlighted the significance of innovation and entrepreneurship in combating the current nutrition crisis. Mozaffarian praised Michelle Obama’s involvement in the innovation movement, recognizing her as a leader in this domain.

Although Mrs. Obama will not serve as the public face of the PLEZi Nutrition brand, she will play a vital role behind the scenes, guiding the company’s mission to drive change within the food supply chain. PLEZi Nutrition’s initial product, PLEZi kids’ drinks, offers an enticing option for children. These drinks contain approximately 75% less sugar compared to leading fruit juice brands and are free from added sugar.

The beverages also incorporate fiber, as well as essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and zinc. Flavors such as Sour Apple, Blueberry Blast, and Orange Smash will be available, and the drinks will be sold at retailers like Target and online through Walmart. A four-pack of 8-ounce drinks will be priced just under $4.00.

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The introduction of PLEZi Nutrition has prompted skepticism regarding the benefits of marketing kids’ beverages. However, Michelle Obama, along with her partners and advisors, acknowledges these concerns. Dr. Shale Wong, a pediatrician at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and a member of the PLEZi advisory committee, recognizes that while water or milk are the optimal choices for kids, transitioning children accustomed to consuming soda or 100% fruit juice daily may not be easy.

PLEZi Nutrition aims to meet parents where they are, as children currently consume an average of 53 pounds of added sugar per year.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasizes the necessity of innovation originating within the food system to create healthier environments for children. Brown applauds Michelle Obama and everyone involved in the food system’s innovation for their efforts in providing healthier options for kids and families.

PLEZi Nutrition operates as a Public Benefit Company, committing to invest 10% of its profits into initiatives that promote children’s health. As a Public Benefit Company, PLEZi Nutrition operates with integrity, transparency, and accessibility, with a primary focus on ensuring great taste to entice children while prioritizing their well-being above all else.