In 2020, amidst a world grappling with uncertainty, a small beacon of hope and health emerged from the entrepreneurial spirit of Lori and Scott Levine. The inception of Scott’s Protein Balls wasn’t just a venture into the health food market; it was a heartwarming narrative of love, resilience, and a shared commitment to well-being that resonated deeply with those who encountered their story.
The genesis of Scott’s Protein Balls traces back to a challenging period in 2017 when Lori was diagnosed with breast cancer. This life-altering experience propelled Lori and Scott toward a steadfast commitment to clean eating and living. However, finding a truly healthy, tasty snack that aligned with their nutritional needs proved elusive. It was this gap in the market that sparked an innovative idea in Scott. Determined to support his wife, he embarked on a mission to create the perfect snack: a plant-based, all-natural protein ball free of soy, dairy, gluten, and unnecessary additives.
Scott’s culinary experiments were driven by a desire to fuse health with taste. He meticulously chose ingredients known for their nutritional value, such as organic chia seeds, ground flaxseed, whole grain oats, and natural sweeteners, paired with peanut or almond butter for a rich, satisfying texture. The result? A protein-packed, allergen-free snack that didn’t just meet Lori’s needs but exceeded them.
Word of these delectable protein balls quickly spread among friends and family, leading to a soft launch on Instagram in 2020. By May 2021, with a dedicated website and redesigned packaging, Scott’s Protein Balls began to carve its niche in the health food industry. The brand’s ethos, coupled with its founders’ story, garnered attention from media outlets, including a spotlight on Good Morning America, which catalyzed an overwhelming influx of orders and solidified the company’s potential in the market.
Lori and Scott’s journey from a personal quest for health to the helm of a growing business is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit. Their venture has since expanded its reach to over 100 retail locations, including notable partnerships and a significant presence in airports and supermarkets across New York. Among the notable retail partners that have embraced Scott’s Protein Balls, the Marshall Retail Group stands out, featuring the product in multiple locations at LaGuardia Airport and the NY Minute location at JetBlue’s Kennedy Airport terminal. This strategic placement has introduced travelers to a healthier snack alternative, making it possible for individuals on the go to maintain their dietary preferences without compromise.
The partnership extended into the bustling hubs of Newark Airport, Penn Station, and Moynihan Station in New York City, following an agreement with Marshall Retail group (now WH Smith). This expansion into key travel and commuter locations underscores the brand’s appeal to a wide audience, including those who value convenience without sacrificing nutritional quality.
In addition to these travel-centric outlets, Scott’s Protein Balls has also made its way into the aisles of Long Island’s supermarket chain, King Kullen, and its sibling, Wild by Nature. This inclusion in local supermarkets allows the brand to reach a diverse customer base, from busy professionals seeking quick meal replacements to health-conscious families looking for nutritious snack options.
Furthermore, the product’s acceptance into Village Supermarkets in NYC, including Fairway, Gourmet Garage, Citarella Markets, and the Foodtown chain, as well as the upcoming launch into Oakberry, a chain known for its Acai Bowls, with nearly 100 stores across the US, reflects the brand’s growing appeal. Scott’s Protein Balls has not only scaled production but also strengthened its commitment to the community by donating a portion of all sales to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. They also proudly support the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation and were honored at the annual Hamptons Happening Gala last summer. The decision to feature Scott’s Protein Balls in these locations is not just a business expansion but also an affirmation of the product’s quality and the founders’ mission to promote healthy living.
The Levines’ journey underscores the essence of entrepreneurship: identifying a need, passionately pursuing a solution, and making a meaningful impact. Their story is not just about the success of a small business but about how adversity can be transformed into an opportunity to contribute positively to others’ lives.
Scott’s Protein Balls stands as a symbol of resilience, health, and the power of community. It’s a reminder that from personal challenges can emerge innovative solutions that not only address a market need but also inspire others to pursue their paths of entrepreneurship with heart and determination. In every protein ball that rolls out of “Scott’s kitchen,” there lies a story of love, health, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of creating something transformative out of life’s unexpected turns.
