Key Takeaways
- Elana Amsterdam, founder of Elana’s Pantry, passed away on February 8, 2025, leaving a legacy in health and wellness.
- Her influential blog and three cookbooks revolutionized gluten-free and paleo cooking for millions.
- Amsterdam was also an investor, philanthropist, and women’s health advocate shaped by her own experiences with chronic illness.
Elana Amsterdam, a pioneering figure in the health and wellness space, passed away on February 8, 2025.
Her website announced her passing, and her family and community mourned the loss of a visionary entrepreneur, author, and advocate.
She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of innovation in healthy living and women’s health advocacy.
A Trailblazer In Health And Nutrition
Elana Amsterdam was best known as the founder of Elana’s Pantry, a widely followed food blog that provided gluten-free, paleo, and grain-free recipes.
Since its inception in 2006, Elana’s Pantry became a trusted resource for those seeking simple and nutritious meals.
She authored three cookbooks, including a New York Times bestseller, cementing her influence in the culinary and wellness communities.
Amsterdam’s health and wellness sector contributions extended beyond her blog and books.
She was an early investor in Primal Kitchen, LMNT, Kettle & Fire, Wellnesse, Magic Spoon, SteadyMD, Serenity Kids, and Beekeeper’s Naturals.
Her commitment to clean eating and holistic health transformed how people approached food and nutrition.
Advocacy And Philanthropy
In addition to her work in nutrition, Elana Amsterdam was deeply committed to social causes.
She co-founded Ecosav in 1993, a company dedicated to implementing recycling programs in New York City’s commercial establishments.
Her efforts earned her recognition as one of the city’s 40 under 40 leaders.
Amsterdam was also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting organizations such as the Pesticide Action Network, Not Putting on a Shirt, Tulane Medical School, Boulder Community Hospital, Baby2Baby, Castleman’s Disease Collaborative Network, and The Anti-Recidivism Fund.
She co-founded the Katz Amsterdam Foundation, further highlighting her passion for systemic change.
A Fierce Advocate For Women’s Health
Amsterdam’s journey with chronic illness shaped her advocacy.
Living with celiac disease and multiple sclerosis for decades, she became one of the leading voices in the paleo gluten-free movement.
In 2021, following a breast cancer diagnosis, she chose a flat closure after a double mastectomy, advocating for greater awareness and acceptance of this choice within the medical community.
Through her public platforms, she worked to eliminate biases and empower women to make informed decisions about their health.
A Lasting Legacy
Elana Amsterdam’s influence reached millions worldwide.
Her work was featured in Paleo Magazine, Fortune Magazine, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal.
She also made television appearances on CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News, using her voice to educate and inspire.
Her passing is a tremendous loss to the wellness community, but her contributions will continue to impact lives for generations.
Amsterdam is survived by her husband, two sons, parents, and sister. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
The world has lost a true pioneer, but Elana Amsterdam’s vision and work will endure, inspiring many to live healthier, more mindful lives.
