What makes us different?
We create our gelatos and sorbets from scratch, prioritizing local, high-quality ingredients and avoiding any artificial flavoring or coloring. Our chocolate is carefully selected, only using couverture, not compound chocolate, and we source fresh milk and cream. We never use imported base powders or artificial flavorings, which are common in many gelaterias. Though imported flavorings can intensify taste and simplify production, they typically contain added artificial ingredients.
Flavoring Explained
Why we don't use Flavoring
We don’t use flavorings or “enhancers” because kids’ taste buds are learning what real food should taste like. Lab-made flavorings sometimes hundreds of synthetic compounds in a single additive can trick the brain into thinking something tastes like chocolate, fruit, or vanilla, even when it isn’t real. Regular exposure can make natural flavors seem bland and push children toward hyper flavored, processed foods. By using only real ingredients, every scoop of our gelato teaches kids to enjoy true, honest flavors the way they were meant to be rich, natural, and unmasked.
Local Sourcing
What does "local" mean to us?
All our ingredients are purchased from suppliers in South Africa. 95% are from suppliers/businesses located in Cape Town, with one supplier in Johannesburg and another in Gqeberha. The products we buy from these suppliers may be imported, like the couverture chocolate we use. For the most part, imported ingredients are only when we can't get it locally or the local quality isn't good enough for us.
Our fruit is always purchased locally, and when we can, we buy direct from Western Cape Farmers. (If you're a farmer growing amazing fruit, we'd love to chat!)
A little more on artificial flavoring
Why are we so against flavoring?
Most artificial flavors are synthetic chemicals created in labs and have only been tested for short-term safety. Their cumulative, long-term effects on human health, especially with daily consumption over decades are largely unstudied. Regulatory approval doesn't equal a clean bill of health; it simply means acute toxicity wasn't observed.
The term "flavoring" on a label can legally represent a blend of dozens or sometimes hundreds of synthetic chemicals. Manufacturers are not required to disclose these individual compounds, making it nearly impossible for consumers to make truly informed choices. People with sensitivities, allergies, or health conditions are left guessing.
Certain artificial flavoring compounds such as synthetic vanillin, (used in vanilla essence), diacetyl (used in margerine as a "butter" flavor), or benzaldehyde (used in almond essence), have been linked to contact allergies, respiratory issues, and other reactions in sensitive individuals. Diacetyl in particular became infamous for causing "popcorn lung" (bronchiolitis obliterans) in factory workers exposed to it, raising questions about consumer-level exposure over time.
Emma Thompson
Sustainability Coordinator
Carlos Rodriguez
Master Juicer
Aria Joy
Marketing Guru
Mark Reynolds
Head of Quality Assurance
Customer love
Our commitment to quality and taste speaks for itself. Listen to what our valued customers have to say.
I can't get enough of Naturest's Mango Juice! It's the perfect guilt-free treat low in calories and bursting with flavor.
- John Mathew
I love supporting eco-conscious brands, and Naturest Juices hits the mark with recyclable packaging.
- Eva Lopez
I've finally found my go-to source for delicious and nutritious refreshment - Naturest Juices!
- Sarah Thomson
It's reassuring to know that we're enjoying a product that prioritizes health and taste. Highly recommended!
- Anne Grisham
FAQ
Find answers to your questions
Explore the information below to find answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring you have all the details you need to make the most out of your juice experience.
