Who we are and what we do

At The Friendly Food Co. we believe that no one deserves to eat bland and boring food. We’re here to spice up your life, the gut-friendly way.

At The Friendly Food Co. we produce low FODMAP spice mixes and seasonings for anyone suffering from food sensitivities, food intolerances, IBS and other gut health issues.

Our spice mixes and seasonings are versatile, easy to use and packed full of flavour. All of our products are low FODMAP, gluten free, vegan, allergy-friendly and made by IBS dietitians in New Zealand.

Bianca Berton-Scarlet

Registered Dietitian – BSC (Human Nutrition), MDiet, Monash FODMAP trained

Hi I’m Bianca, co-founder and Dietitian at The Friendly Food Co.

I’ve always been a huge foodie and have a real passion for health, nutrition, and all things gut-related! After graduating from university, I jumped straight into a role at a gut health clinic in Dunedin, where I quickly realised just how often people on the low FODMAP diet were struggling with bland, boring meals. Hearing this time and time again sparked the idea to create our range of gut-friendly spice mixes and seasonings to help bring flavour and enjoyment back to food, without the tummy troubles.

Outside of work, you’ll find me in the kitchen cooking, baking or usually experimenting with new recipes. I also love getting out and about enjoying walks, running or a good Pilates session.

If you’re interested in dietitian support, I see clients for IBS, Endometriosis, Coeliac disease, reflux, Diverticular disease, bariatric surgery, weight management, healthy eating, binge eating and general digestive health concerns.

Kelsey Paterson

Registered Dietitian – BAppSC (Sports Nutrition), MDiet, Monash FODMAP trained

Hi I’m Kelsey, co-founder and Dietitian at The Friendly Food Co.

My journey into the world of food and flavour began out of necessity. After being diagnosed with IBS and coeliac disease, I was suddenly navigating a world of bland, restrictive meals that left me feeling uninspired and disconnected from the joy of eating. Instead of giving up, I got curious and creative. Through trial and error, I discovered how to bring bold, comforting flavours back to the table, without the ingredients that upset my gut.

As a dietitian, I saw so many of my clients with IBS feeling the same frustration I had: stuck with boring food and unsure how to enjoy eating again. That’s what led Bianca and I to create The Friendly Food Co. a range of low FODMAP, gluten-free spice mixes that make your favourite comfort meals exciting again, no matter your dietary needs.

When I’m not mixing spices or developing gut-friendly recipes, you’ll find me out in nature, usually hiking somewhere beautiful and dreaming up my next dish.