Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing Company

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Sanitarium NZ Head Office 20231210 132310 01

Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing Company is a New Zealand and Australian food company that produces a range of breakfast cereals and vegetarian products. Sanitarium's products are sold in a number of countries around the world. The company is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and is part of the church's comprehensive health and wellbeing mission.

History

Sanitarium was founded in Melbourne, Australia in 1898, following the health and dietary principles advocated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The company expanded to New Zealand in 1900. Since its inception, Sanitarium has focused on producing healthful foods and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Its most famous product, Weet-Bix, was introduced in the 1920s and has become a staple breakfast cereal in many households in Australia and New Zealand.

Products

Sanitarium produces a wide range of food products, including cereals, milk substitutes, spreads, and vegetarian meat substitutes. Some of its most well-known products include:

• Weet-Bix: A high-fiber, low-sugar breakfast cereal that has become one of the most popular cereals in Australia and New Zealand.
• UP&GO: A liquid breakfast product marketed as a nutritious on-the-go breakfast option.
• So Good: A range of plant-based milk alternatives made from soy, almond, and coconut.

Health and Nutrition

Sanitarium places a strong emphasis on health and nutrition, aligning with the Seventh-day Adventist Church's health message. The company invests in nutritional research and education, aiming to improve public health through better eating habits. Sanitarium's Health and Wellbeing Services offer resources and programs to support healthy living, including cooking classes, school breakfast programs, and community health initiatives.

Community Involvement

Sanitarium is actively involved in community initiatives, particularly those that promote health and wellbeing. The company sponsors the Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon, an event designed to encourage children to get active. Sanitarium also supports various charitable causes and disaster relief efforts, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility.

Controversies

As a prominent food manufacturer, Sanitarium has faced scrutiny and controversy, particularly regarding its tax-exempt status in Australia and New Zealand due to its ownership by a religious organization. Critics argue that this gives Sanitarium an unfair competitive advantage. However, the company maintains that its operations are not for profit, with proceeds going towards community health and wellbeing initiatives.

See Also

• Seventh-day Adventist Church
• Vegetarianism
• Breakfast cereal
• Health food