The Ultimate Easter In Sydney

The ultimate easter guide 2022

Happy easter sydney!

We hope your days are filled with happiness, love and a treat or two!

The Organic Place / Zeally Bay Sourdough
A bun of real integrity. Entirely sourdough leavened and made with Certified Organic ingredients from @zeallybaysourdough. Add a 6 pack to your next order from @theorganicplace along with lots more Easter goodies! Use code SVG for 10% OFF your first 2 orders.

Treat Dreams
Did you know that @treat.dreams hazel bunnies won 7 medals at the International Chocolate Salon, including Top Vegan Chocolate and Best Vegan Milk Chocolate? Perfect for decorating Easter treats, or just shovelling into your mouth on their own. Order online as singles, or in gift packs.

Loving Earth 
MAKING EASTER MAGIC! @loving_earth’s new Easter eggs have just landed. Their Raspberry Dream is back by popular demand and joined by the kid on the block, Tropical Creme, and the cutest, brand new Magic Minis! Stock up online or head into your local health food store or independent grocer!

Pico 
Too soon? We don’t think so! Easter buns pair perfectly with @picochocolate’s chunks of decadent Pico Coconut M*lk – and they are to die for! How do you like your buns? We highly suggest trying this combo out!

Loco Love
All of your Easter dreams have descended from the heavens. @locolovechocolate’s long-awaited Heavenly Hazelnut Hares are here! Each little bunny is filled with hazelnut praline ganache, wrapped in a compostable wrapper and is so decadent they won’t believe it’s vegan and refined sugar-free! Glorious, glossy and oh so good!

Nomo Chocolate
Counting down the days… @nomochocolate’s Easter range is bigger and better than ever this year. Have you tried their new Cookie Dough Egg yet? It’s just like their cookie dough reindeer but in bunny form. Find them in supermarkets or on their website. ⁣

Vegan Grocery Store 
We’re EGGSPLODING with excitement to explore Australia’s biggest range of vegan Easter treats from @vegangrocerystoreau. They stock all the best local and international brands including @sweet_william_chocolate, @pana_organic, @vego_chocolate and MORE! Too many good ones to choose from!

Nutie
Say HOPPY Easter to those you love with the cutest easter cakes & treats from @wearenutie. You can order their special Easter treats and chocolates for pick up from the 13-17th April. Every single item is made by hand and with a lot of love, plus they’re all gluten-free! Order online for pick up only.

Two Chaps 
Easter calls for freshly baked hot cross buns. Hop on over to @twochapscafe in Marrickville to get your hands on their epic sourdough buns. Go get yourself some!

Wholegreen Bakery
For an EGG-STRA special Easter, order yourself a 4 pack of GF & vegan buns from @wholegreenbakery. Their scrumptious hot cross buns are available at both Waverley and the city bakery for pre-order online. Will you choose traditional fruit or chocolate? Or why not both?

Oh My Days 
PSA! Back by popular demand are @ohmydaysglebe’s vegan hot cross buns in original and choc chip flavours. DM them for pre-orders to secure your buns!

Black Star Pastry
Dem buns dough! The chefs at @blackstarpastry have been busy stockpiling spice, proving dough, and marinating orange peel in preparation for the annual release of their Easter hot cross buns. For a perfect bun-dle, they’re also serving @thevegandairy cultured butter. Get your orders in!

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The Ultimate Easter In Melbourne

The ultimate easter guide 2022

Happy easter melbourne!

We hope your days are filled with happiness, love and a treat or two!

The Organic Place / Zeally Bay Sourdough
A bun of real integrity. Entirely sourdough leavened and made with Certified Organic ingredients from @zeallybaysourdough. Add a 6 pack to your next order from @theorganicplace along with lots more Easter goodies! Use code MVG for 10% OFF your first 2 orders.

Treat Dreams
Did you know that @treat.dreams hazel bunnies won 7 medals at the International Chocolate Salon, including Top Vegan Chocolate and Best Vegan Milk Chocolate? Perfect for decorating Easter treats, or just shovelling into your mouth on their own. Order online as singles, or in gift packs.

Loving Earth 
MAKING EASTER MAGIC! @loving_earth’s new Easter eggs have just landed. Their Raspberry Dream is back by popular demand and joined by the kid on the block, Tropical Creme, and the cutest, brand new Magic Minis! Stock up online or head into your local health food store or independent grocer!

Pico 
Too soon? We don’t think so! Easter buns pair perfectly with @picochocolate’s chunks of decadent Pico Coconut M*lk – and they are to die for! How do you like your buns? We highly suggest trying this combo out!

Loco Love
All of your Easter dreams have descended from the heavens. @locolovechocolate’s long-awaited Heavenly Hazelnut Hares are here! Each little bunny is filled with hazelnut praline ganache, wrapped in a compostable wrapper and is so decadent they won’t believe it’s vegan and refined sugar-free! Glorious, glossy and oh so good!

Nomo Chocolate
Counting down the days… @nomochocolate’s Easter range is bigger and better than ever this year. Have you tried their new Cookie Dough Egg yet? It’s just like their cookie dough reindeer but in bunny form. Find them in supermarkets or on their website. ⁣

Vegan Grocery Store 
We’re EGGSPLODING with excitement to explore Australia’s biggest range of vegan Easter treats from @vegangrocerystoreau. They stock all the best local and international brands including @sweet_william_chocolate, @pana_organic, @vego_chocolate and MORE! Too many good ones to choose from!

Baker Bleu
Easter calls for freshly baked hot cross buns. Hop on over to @bakerbleu in Caulfield North to get your hands on their epic vegan buns. Go get yourself some!

Mister Nice Guys Bakeshop
For an EGG-STRA special Easter, order yourself a 6 pack of hot cross buns from @mister_nice_guys_bakeshop. Their scrumptious buns are available for order via OrderUp! or get them in-store. Ready to go!

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Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

  • 2 organic sweet potatoes*
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup black beans
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/3 cup corn kernels* 
  • 1/4 cup coriander, finely chopped*
  • 1/4 small onion, diced*
  • 1/2 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper
  • Chilli flakes (optional)

To serve:

  • Guacamole
  • Vegan sour cream or coconut yogurt
  • Fresh coriander
*Fresh produce available from The Organic Place.

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
  2. Lightly coat the sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and bake on a line tray for 40-60 mins or until tender. 
  3. Combine the black beans, tomato, corn, coriander and red onion in a bowl. Mix in the lime juice and 1 tsp olive oil. Season to taste with salt, pepper and chilli flakes. 
  4. Cut the sweet potatoes in half, scoop out two large spoonfuls from the centre and fill with the black bean mix.
  5. Top with guacamole, vegan sour cream/coconut yogurt and fresh coriander.
Photo Credit: @LilaMarieMoments

Inspiring Aussie Female Founders

inspiring Aussie Female Founders

Happy International Women's Day

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the talented and successful faces behind some of our favourite vegan businesses.

Julie Mathers, Flora & Fauna 
Leading the change is purpose-driven entrepreneur and leader, Julie Mathers. After 20+ years working in retail, Julie founded Australia’s largest eco store, Flora and Fauna and 3 years later started her own zero-waste brand, Green + Kind. Julie is passionate about building better businesses and being a force for good, and we LOVE her for it! 

Pam Ahern, Edgar’s Mission
It’s cool to be kind and Pam Ahern, founder and director of Edgar’s Mission is proving just that. In 2003, Pam gave up her full-time job and equestrian career and dedicated her life to the protection of farmed animals. Pam and her team have rescued over 450 animals and given each a life truly worth living. What a changemaker!

Heaven Leigh, Bodhi Restaurant Bar 
Entrepreneur, mentor, wife and mum, Heaven Leigh does it all! For the last 20 years, Heaven has been continuing her family legacy at Australia’s longest-established vegan restaurant, Bodhi Restaurant Bar. Thank you Heaven for feeding us, inspiring us and supporting all women!

Danielle Egan, Sienna Byron Bay
Danielle Egan’s sustainability journey started with a side hustle nail polish business in her lounge room. Nearly a decade on and this female entrepreneur is an international trailblazer in the eco-beauty world. Sienna’s non-toxic nail polishes are stocked in 20 countries worldwide and Danielle is continually looking for ways to do better. Thank you Danielle for showing us how it’s done!

Sina Klug, Nutie
Introducing baking queen and boss lady of Nutie, Sina Klug. From selling GF donuts at Bondi Farmers Market to owning two stores with 40k+ loyal fans, Nutie is the ultimate success story. Sina puts love into everything she does and we love her for making our lives all sweeter!

Lara Young & Sue McCarthy, VEats
VEats is the brainchild of two vegan, female leaders with a passion for a more sustainable, nutritious, and ethical way of life. Lara and Sue created Australia’s first exclusively plant-based food platform with the hope of making plant-based eating easier and more accessible for all. They’re now focusing on building a strong female team and expanding nationwide. Go team!

Jessica Bailey, Vegan Grocery Store 
An inspiration to many, Jessica Bailey has helped make cruelty-free living easier for all! She’s the founder of Vegan Grocery Store, which stocks Australia’s widest range of vegan products (3500 and counting)! We admire Jess’s genuine desire to help people and animals and value the positive, tangible impacts she’s having in our community.

Lisette Armstrong, Treat Dreams
Life wouldn’t be so sweet if it weren’t for Lisette Armstrong. Vegan chocolatier and founder of Treat Dreams, Liz is an inspiration to all. She turned her side hustle into an award-winning chocolate brand and has won 25+ international awards!. What would we do without you Liz?!

Hannah Jones, Hanami Cosmetics
Making money was never the intention when Hannah Jones started The Vegan Box (which she’s now sold). Hannah simply wanted to help people discover new cruelty-free products and embrace a conflict-free lifestyle. Along the way, she founded Hanami Cosmetics, a proudly woman-run brand featuring non-toxic nail polishes and make-up. Thanks to Hannah, we no longer have to compromise ethics for style.

Kait & Jorgie, The Green Chef
Country girls turned entrepreneurs, Kait and Jorgie prove that anyone can transform their passions into a career. They create seasonal and dietary friendly ready meals at The Green Chef that are inspired by their own health journeys and desire to prove that sustainability doesn’t have to be hard work. Dream team right there!

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Creamy Pumpkin and Spinach Pasta

Creamy Pumpkin & spinach pasta

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 400g butternut squash, cubed*
  • Olive oil
  • 200g pasta
  • 1 tbsp plain flour
  • 3/4 cup plant-based milk
  • 1 tbsp miso
  • 50g baby spinach 
  • 1/2 cup cashew parmesan
  • Salt 
  • Pepper 

* Substitute for any roast vegetables

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
  2. Drizzle the butternut squash with olive oil and roast for 20 mins or until tender.
  3. Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling water, according to the packet directions.
  4. 4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick frying pan. Add flour and cook, stirring, for 1 min. Gradually add the milk and miso, and whisk for 5 mins or until the sauce boils and thickens.
  5. Add the drained pasta, pumpkin, spinach and 1/4 cup of the cashew parmesan, and stir to combine. 
  6. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and top with remaining parmesan.
Photo Credit: @LilaMarieMoments

One Bowl Peanut Butter Choc Chip Cookies

One Bowl Peanut Butter Choc Chip Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (sub for GF flour)
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt flakes (plus, extra for sprinkling on top)
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal + 2 1/2 tbsp water)
  • 1/4 cup vegan choc chips

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 
  2. Combine the oats, flour, baking powder, salt and coconut sugar in a bowl.
  3. Mix in the peanut butter and flax egg, and combine to form a sticky dough.
  4. Stir in the choc chips.
  5. Roll the dough into 6 even rounds and place on a lined baking tray. Gently press down to form a disc shape.
  6. Bake for 10-15 mins or until golden brown.
  7. Cool on the pan for 10 mins and top with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Photo Credit: @LilaMarieMoments

Spiced Roast Cauliflower w/ Tahini Sauce

SPICED Roast Cauliflower w/ Tahini Sauce

Ingredients

  • 1/2 organic cauliflower from The Organic Place, cut into florets 
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tbsp salt, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup coconut yogurt 
  • 1/4 cup of tahini
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced 
  • Juice & zest of half a lemon 
  • Seeds of 1/2 pomegranate 
  • Fresh parsley

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.

2. Toss the cauliflower florets, spices and 1 tbsp olive oil in a bowl until evenly coated.

3. Spread the florets on a lined baking tray and bake for 20-30 mins until golden.

4. Add the coconut yogurt, tahini, lemon zest and lemon juice to a bowl and mix until smooth.

5. Spread it over a plate, top with the baked cauliflower and sprinkle over the pomegranate seeds, parsley, and a sprinkle of salt.

Photo Credit: @LilaMarieMoments

WVG’s Favourite Vegan Pizzas in Australia

WVG's Favourite Vegan Pizzas in Australia

Happy #Worldpizzaday

Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy pizza and that’s pretty much the same thing. To celebrate #WorldPizzaDay on Feb 9th, we’re sharing our favourite pizzerias in Australia! 

Shop 225, Melbourne
Vegan or not, the pizzas at Shop 225 can’t be topped. This suburban pizzeria in Melbourne has attracted a cult following for their traditional wood fired pizzas made from 72-hour leavened dough. They’re the first accredited GF pizza shop in AUS and nearly every pizza can be made vegan with their house-made vegan cheese. We recommend going for the Zio Pino and Nutella pizza!

Gigi Pizzeria, Sydney
There ain’t no party, like a pizza party, and there ain’t no pizza like the traditional Neapolitan wood fired pizza from Gigi Pizzeria. Arguably the most loved plant-based pizzeria in AUS, their menu combines fresh, quality local produce with key ingredients imported from Italy (as specified by the AVPN). Our faves are the Palate with roast potatoes, garlic, rosemary & black truffle pate + the Melanzane with tree nut ricotta, grilled eggplant & basil.

Red Sparrow, Melbourne
If you wanna be where the pizzas are, then head to Melbourne’s only 100% vegan pizzeria and food truck, Red Sparrow. The hand stretched dough is made using pizza Napolteana techniques but they are not bound by tradition and enjoy experimenting with unusual toppings on their daily specials. If you can only pick 2, go for their Ortolana and some chips! PS: You can add dairy-free mozzarella, feta, parmesan, fior di latte, bacon, sausage, pepperoni, chorizo, pesto, etc. to any pizza!

Masa Madre, Newcastle
It’s time to think outside the pizza box. If you want to be blown away by the beauty of plant-based pizzas then visit Masa Madre in Newcastle. Their dough is made daily from 100% natural sourdough, slow fermented and topped with the highest quality Aussie ingredients, including house-made cashew ricotta. We can’t go past their white-based Zucchini pizza but if you’re feeling adventurous try their Kim-Che-Shroom. Top tip: Order a Pesto Crust Dipper pot to dip your crusts!

Nonna’s Nightmare, Brisbane
We would jump on a plane to Brisbane just for a bite of the authentic Italian pizzas from Nonna’s Nightmare. The sourdough pizzas from this 100% plant-based eatery will soon become your new favourite, guilt-free comfort meal. We honestly couldn’t pick a fave! They’re all so good even your Nonna wouldn’t know they were plant-based. PS: Pair your pizza with their extensive list of vegan-friendly beers, wines and cocktails.

Green Acre, Melbourne
Pizza is a way of life at Green Acre Pizza. This sustainable pizza bar in Brunswick focus their efforts on minimising their eco footprint, while delivering delicious food and a fun experience. Almost 50% of their pizzas can be made vegan and we are obsessed with the Heavens to Betsy and Cauli Chips. PS: The Nutella Calzone is vegan too!

Veganz, online 
You’ll want a PIZZA this! Veganz are a plant-based food brand from Berlin, that have created the world’s first pizza to have a sustainability score. The pizzas are an easy option to pop in the freezer for a quick and healthy(ish) meal, and come in three flavours – Verdure, Tricolore & Spinaci. Shop their Verdure Pizza in the frozen pizza aisle at select Woolworths or order the full range online at the Vegan Grocery Store.

Heros Pizza, Perth
The superheros at Heros Pizza in Perth have stolen a pizza our hearts. Fresher, healthier and tastier pizza is what they strive for and they’ve got lots of vegan options to impress. Take advantage of free arcade games and slushies while you wait, and come in superhero style with your undies on the outside, for some super saver deals!

Pizza Madre, Sydney
Life happens, pizza helps, especially when it’s as good as the gourmet slices from Pizza Madre. This vegetarian pizzeria are proud of their 72 hour fermented sourdough pizza crusts and for good reason. We love that the menu changes monthly, featuring exotic and unique flavour combinations. Plus, it means you can visit time and time again, and will never get bored!

Francie’s Pizzeria, Gold Coast
Pizza is a universal love language. Win over the hearts of those you love with the life changing pizzas from Francie’s Pizzeria. They’ve got a dedicated vegan menu filled with comical classics like their Highway to Kale with vegan nduja & cashew ricotta and their Dollop Parton with vegan sausage. Get in quick though as they make a maximum of 200 pizzas per night!

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Our Fav Plant-Based Ready Made Meals in Sydney

Our Fav Plant-Based Ready Made Meals

New Year, New You?

Here are our fave healthy, plant-based, ready-made meals to keep you organised in 2022!

Garden of Vegan
Whether a vegan veteran or just starting your plant-based journey, Garden of Vegan are here to help! Their meals are vegan, fresh & made with 100% certified organic ingredients. There are so many meals to choose from including Loaded Mexican Sweet Potato and Butter Tofu. And yes… they do desserts (plus fresh produce and juicing boxes). Delivery is available AUS wide. USE CODE: MVG25 for $25 off.

Syndian
Does the daily grind get you down? Syndian are here to solve the dinner dilemma. Their menu caters to busy individuals who seek healthy food to support their day-to-day nutritional needs, without compromising taste. Everything is GF, vegan and 100% natural, such as their mouthwatering burger patties, gourmet dips, ready curries and vegan sausages. Use our code VEGANGUIDE for 10% off when ordering online! Delivery available in NSW, QLD, ACT, VIC and SA.

Herbidoor
It’s easy to have healthy, convenient plant-based meals delivered to you with the help of Herbidoor. Herbi has two tasty plant-based ranges to try including their Vegan Active Meals, such as the Teriyaki Tofu Power Bowl, or their Comfort Food range, including classics like Thai Green Curry and Lasagne. All you need to do is sit back, relax and wait for your meals to arrive. Delivery is available throughout NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC, TAS, SA and WA.

Soulara
There’s something for every taste, lifestyle, and dietary requirement on the menu Soulara. Their menu of 60+ plant-powered, 100% natural and superfood meals are inspired by global flavours, including Sunkissed Pesto Pasta and Golden Coconut Dahl. Signing up to their subscription service takes the stress out of dinner planning and also helps take a little pressure off the planet. Check online to see if they deliver to your area and use code RENEE_35 for 35% off first order.

Pickle n Sprout
Eating plant-based couldn’t be easier when you’ve got the help of Pickle n Sprout. They make eating plants a breeze with their meal deliveries and vegan/GF cakes and sweets. The menu changes regularly to keep your tastebuds on an adventure, featuring classics like their Butter Tofu, Mexican Burrito Bowl and Malai Kofta. Meals are delivered Sydney-wide on Mondays.

Rooted

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. The team at Rooted make plant-based and GF food that is so good, it’ll feel a little naughty. Customise your delivery by choosing from their range of bowls, bites and smoothies, including our fave Spring Green Gnocchi or Summer Roll Bowl. We love that they’re committed to zero-waste and are 100% plastic free. Delivery is available Sydney-wide!

Iku 
Want to look after the earth? Lunch is a good place to start. Iku are here to make sustainable eating easier with their plant-rich meal deliveries. Build your own pack or order a Best Seller, High Protein, Antioxidant Booster, or Gut Health curated meal set. Food from nature, made to nurture! Available for delivery across Sydney on Tues, Thurs and Sat.

Brainwave Cafe
Discover the flavours and magic of modern Asian cuisine with the Fresh and Frozen Ready Meals from Brainwave Cafe. They have a combination of flavourful veggie based dishes and mock meat dishes, such as their Vegan Hainan Chiken Rice and Malaysian Laksa. Orders can be placed online and are available for delivery in Sydney metro.

Hippocrates Healthy Eatery
Kick start your 2022 routine with the affordable, healthy and tasty meal deliveries from Hippocrates Healthy Eatery. All their meals are plant-based, with certified organic, gluten- and sugar-free ingredients, delivered in compostable packaging. Best sellers include their Mezze platter, Athena Greek Wrap and Mexican Nourish Bowl. Check online to see if they deliver to your area.

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Our Fav Plant-Based Ready Made Meals in Melbourne

Our Fav Plant-Based Ready Made Meals

New Year, New You?

Here are our fave healthy, plant-based, ready-made meals to keep you organised in 2022!

Garden of Vegan
Whether a vegan veteran or just starting your plant-based journey, Garden of Vegan are here to help! Their meals are vegan, fresh & made with 100% certified organic ingredients. There are so many meals to choose from including Loaded Mexican Sweet Potato and Butter Tofu. And yes… they do desserts (plus fresh produce and juicing boxes). Delivery is available AUS wide. USE CODE: MVG25 for $25 off.

Syndian
Does the daily grind get you down? Syndian are here to solve the dinner dilemma. Their menu caters to busy individuals who seek healthy food to support their day-to-day nutritional needs, without compromising taste. Everything is GF, vegan and 100% natural, such as their mouthwatering burger patties, gourmet dips, ready curries and vegan sausages. Use our code VEGANGUIDE for 10% off when ordering online! Delivery available in NSW, QLD, ACT, VIC and SA.

Herbidoor
It’s easy to have healthy, convenient plant-based meals delivered to you with the help of Herbidoor. Herbi has two tasty plant-based ranges to try including their Vegan Active Meals, such as the Teriyaki Tofu Power Bowl, or their Comfort Food range, including classics like Thai Green Curry and Lasagne. All you need to do is sit back, relax and wait for your meals to arrive. Delivery is available throughout NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC, TAS, SA and WA.

Soulara
There’s something for every taste, lifestyle, and dietary requirement on the menu Soulara. Their menu of 60+ plant-powered, 100% natural and superfood meals are inspired by global flavours, including Sunkissed Pesto Pasta and Golden Coconut Dahl. Signing up to their subscription service takes the stress out of dinner planning and also helps take a little pressure off the planet. Check online to see if they deliver to your area and use code RENEE_35 for 35% off first order.

Bmby
Discover the secret and magic of Thai vegetables and herbs with the Fridge Filler Ready Meals from Bmby. They have a combination of flavourful veggie based dishes and mock meat dishes, such as their Thai Basil Spaghetti and Tom Yum Fried Rice. The chef box is also a perfect addition for date night dinners or a park picnic! Use our code MVG10 for FREE DELIVERY! 

The Green Chef
Sustainable eating doesn’t have to be hard work with the help of The Green Chef. They specialise in delivered meals, made fresh from a weekly changing menu. Each dish features local and seasonal produce, and can be personalised to all dietary needs. You can also add on seasonal salad boxes, smoothie or soup packs and sweet treats. Delivery is available Melbourne wide and you can our code MVG for $10 off.

CompassionEat 
Kick start your 2022 routine with the affordable, healthy and tasty meal deliveries from CompassionEat. Each meal comes with a nutritional breakdown so you can track your nutritional goals and are delivered frozen so you to heat and enjoy when convenient. Best sellers include their Creamy Chickpea Curry, Black Bean Burrito and Gym Junkie Bowl. Delivery is available all throughout Melbourne so jump online and check it out.

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