We are very sad to share the news that Elana passed away on February 8, 2025. It is a traumatic and tragic loss for her family, friends, and the entire Elana’s Pantry community.
Elana was a creative beacon who was constantly looking for ways to help people and make the world a better place. She founded two companies that were the definition of doing well by doing good.
Ecosav started in 1993, was a leader in bringing recycling programs to New York City commercial establishments and helping them reduce their waste bills in the process. She was named one of the city’s 40 under 40 for her work.
Elana’s Pantry, founded in 2006, brought simple, healthy, gluten free, and grain free recipes and extensive health and wellness advice to millions of people. She was also the author of three cookbooks, including a New York Times bestseller, and an investor in numerous cutting-edge companies bringing healthy products to people, like Primal Kitchen, LMNT, Kettle & Fire, Wellnesse, Magic Spoon, SteadyMD, Serenity Kids, and Beekeeper’s Naturals.
Elana was committed to giving back with charities such as 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, and was a co-founder of the Katz Amsterdam Foundation.
Elana was also a fierce advocate for women’s health and eliminating biases through systemic change in the medical system.
Elana had a number of challenges in her life but always found a way to connect and help people, never wavering from her goal to “save the world”, a goal she told her parents about when she was 22.
She will be deeply missed.
Elana is survived by her husband and two sons as well as her parents and sister. We ask for privacy for her family during this very tough time.
JoAnna Pepe says
Oh my gosh. I am deeply saddened to learn that Elana has passed on. She served as a beacon of health for so many. And was my primary resource for gluten free cooking and baking. I will miss her dearly. May her journey from form to spirit be blessed by a thousand angels, boundless love and light.
Heartbroken,
JoAnna Pepe
Helen says
So very sad to hear of Elana’s passing. Her blog and emails were a great source for me when I was first diagnosed with celiac. Sending heart-filled condolences and prayers for strength and peace to her family at this difficult time.
Jeanne says
No words. So sad.
Elana had an impact on me.
I am so very sorry to hear this… I will keep her in my heart, and send love to all her family and loved ones.
RIP Elana❤️
Trish says
I am so sorry to hear of Elana’s passing. May she rest in eternal peace. Prayers for healing to her family and friends.
Ann says
I am so sad to hear of Elana’s passing. Her books and FB posts helped me greatly. I loved how she addressed recipes for Jewish holiday foods. I will cherish your books and my memories of your bravery and generous posts.
Gretchen says
I am so sorry to hear this news. She left the world a better place and she will be missed by millions. Prayers and condolences to her family and friends.
Michelle says
Dear Elana’s family,
I am so sorry for your loss, Elana was so kind to share her knowledge and life experiences with us all and actually made it a wee bit easier for us coming after her , I will continue to pray for hubby, boys, mum & dad & sister. You are loved, God loves you.
Loida E Velez says
I’m so sorry for your loss! I truly loved Elana and all she represented! She has truly been a blessing to me and many others. My love and prayers are with you !! My heart is deeply sorrowful!! Loida
Donna Ward says
So very sad to hear of your devastating loss. She will be missed.
Serena says
My heart is heavy with this news. I credit Elana’s guidance and knowledge with helping me to heal after I had my child 15 years ago, triggering all sort of health issues. Her cookbooks are well worn and hold a permanent place on my kitchen shelf. My thoughts and prayers have been with Elana for a while now, and will continue to be with her family in the coming months.