Celebrity Chef Jose Andrés restaurants start using Loliware’s sustainable Seaweed Straws
Loliware, the pioneering seaweed-resin company, has announced a significant partnership with Celebrity Chef Jose Andrés’ “José Andrés Group“ (JAG), the internationally renowned restaurateur’s network of establishments. This collaboration aims to enhance JAG’s purpose-driven practices by introducing Loliware’s innovative seaweed products in their North American restaurants.
Loliware’s seaweed-resin straws and utensils are designed to resemble and function like plastic but can fully compost within 50 days. This is a significant step toward combating the environmental impact of single-use plastics, as it is estimated by National Geographic Magazine and other sources that over 100 million plastic utensils are used daily in the U.S., contributing to pollution on beaches and in oceans worldwide. Loliware’s mission goes beyond waste elimination to encompass responsible ocean aquaculture and fair trade practices.
Manufactured in Missouri, Loliware’s seaweed-based forks, knives, and spoons are the world’s first of their kind. They provide a sustainable alternative to limit the accumulation of single-use plastics in landfills and oceans.
The partnership kicks off in Chicago, where Loliware straws are introduced at Bar Mar, Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, and Jaleo. The plan is to expand the use of Loliware products to JAG properties in DC and eventually across the entire country.
In addition to featuring Loliware’s ocean-friendly products, JAG’s Research & Development team will work closely with Loliware to create unique and customized serveware. This partnership aims to showcase the synergy between José Andrés’ award-winning creativity and the shared commitment to purpose-driven dining.
Sam Bakhshandehpour, President of José Andrés Group, emphasized the importance of considering not just the food itself but also the sustainability of the service ware, including the plates, forks, and straws. He expressed excitement about collaborating with Loliware to bring innovation to their restaurants and push the boundaries of service ware.
Loliware is a woman-owned tech company that aims to replace single-use plastics with products that naturally disappear. Through partnerships with experts in regenerative aquaculture worldwide, Loliware utilizes its proprietary SEATech resins and products to contribute to the expansion of the “blue economy.” Their compostable seaweed-based Blue Ocean straws have already gained popularity among famous chefs, restaurant chains, and eco-conscious hotels. Loliware’s SEATech resins are now available for licensing globally, driving the planet toward a plastic-free and decarbonized future.
Loliware CEO Sea F. Briganti expressed their enthusiasm for partnering with José Andrés Group, acknowledging the iconic status of the group and their leader’s contributions to culinary innovation and humanitarian relief efforts. Briganti believes this partnership speaks to the transformative potential of Loliware’s SEATech resins.
José Andrés Group (JAG), led by Chef and Founder José Andrés and President Sam Bakhshandehpour, is a creative team behind renowned dining concepts and a dynamic media company. With a mission to change the world through food, JAG operates over 30 restaurant concepts across various cities and countries. From food trucks to Michelin-starred tasting menus, JAG offers diverse culinary experiences. In addition to their restaurants, JAG’s media company, formed in 2021, focuses on sharing food-related stories through television series, books, podcasts, and digital content. José Andrés, an internationally recognized culinary innovator, humanitarian, and bestselling author, has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the industry and his philanthropic efforts.
