So it seems that quite a few of my uni mates are kicking goals in the health and fitness industry. First, I introduced you to Georgie Smith, creator of g.luxe muesli and all its tasty offshoots. And now I present Chris Ward – and his partner Fran Lamotte – who have created Urban Paleo, a pre-packaged Paleo meal business for those who want to eat well, but don’t have the time (or the knowledge) to cook themselves.
I got the lowdown from Chris and Fran on Urban Paleo, why they started it and where it’s going.
So, what exactly is Urban Paleo?
Urban Paleo is a pre-packaged Paleo meal business based in Wagga. The menu changes fortnightly to ensure variety for our customers, and we currently service the Wagga area (delivering on a weekly basis) and Canberra (delivering on a fortnightly basis).
We’re also looking towards expanding into Albury and Sydney.
How does it work?
Right now, everything is done via our Facebook page. This is where we post our fortnightly menu with prices, pictures and nutritional information, as well as articles relating to the Paleo lifestyle. At the moment, this is also where you place your order.
Meals are generally $10 (price of specials varies) and we also offer snacks — prices for these vary too.
We’ll be launching our brand new website in the coming weeks, which will have online ordering capabilities.
[LGF sidenote: whether you are in their catchment area or not, these guys are absolutely worth following on Facey HERE, just for the awesome recipe ideas and funny Paleo memes. Plus, hopefully they’ll be delivering their wares to Sydney soon].
Who would benefit from Urban Paleo?
Anyone and everyone can benefit from Urban Paleo! But if we had to be more specific, we believe our service will be of particular use to:
People specifically following Paleo eating protocols
Anyone interested in health and fitness
Those with specific dietary requirements (such as Coeliacs)
Shift workers/time-poor
And of course Crossfitters love it!
How did Urban Paleo come about?
It was established in 2013 out of necessity. I (Chris) was the co-owner of a Crossfit box called CrossFit Victus in Wagga, and was looking for a way to provide simple and accessible Paleo meals to our members.
I approached Fran (a member of the box and also my girlfriend) to ask if she was interested in developing a range of meals. Fran grew up in the hospitality industry and is an amazing cook, so it just made sense.
Around the same time I sold my share in the gym, but we saw amazing potential in Urban Paleo. There was really nothing around like it so we decided to see where it would take us.
Like any start-up business it was slow going at first, but we are now overwhelmed by our progress! We love providing a service that helps people live healthier, happier lives. And we’re now about to launch a second range called Urban Muscle, aimed at the bodybuilding community.
Why do you believe in eating Paleo?
Although we have done extensive research into the science behind Paleo, our belief is rooted in personal experience along with trial and error. Eating the Paleo way quite simply makes you feel fantastic! It has helped both of us trim down, and the lethargy and bloating we felt previously is all but gone. Eating Paleo just makes sense!
Where do your recipes come from?
The recipes were initially primarily sourced from Paleo cookbooks and websites. But as my (Fran) knowledge of Paleo has increased, I have been able to develop, modify and create recipes of my own within the boundaries of Paleo.
What is your favourite recipe?
Slow roasted pulled pork.
What sort of exercise do you do?
Fran – exclusively CrossFit
Chris – CrossFit, weight training
What has been your most memorable moment since starting Urban Paleo?
The most memorable moments are the positive feedback we receive from customers about how Urban Paleo has made their lives easier and healthier. We have received some amazing testimonials which can be found on our Facebook page and upcoming website.
If you’re in the Wagga/Canberra area I highly recommend you give Urban Paleo a whirl – even if you enjoy cooking, it’s a great idea to store a bunch of these meals in your freezer for those nights you just can’t be bothered. That’s what I’d be doing, anyway!
Happy Friday Team!
Ooo I want to sign up!!