When it comes to reimagining classic snacks, Keisha Smith-Jeremie has done just that with Sanaia Applesauce. Inspired by her Caribbean roots, Smith-Jeremie took a childhood favorite and infused it with bold island flavors, creating a premium applesauce brand that has disrupted the traditional snack industry.

The Inspiration Behind Sanaia Applesauce

Growing up in the Bahamas, Keisha Smith-Jeremie had a deep connection to tropical flavors. While applesauce is often considered a snack for kids, she saw an opportunity to reinvent it for adults by incorporating exotic ingredients like guava, tamarind, hibiscus, and ginger.

Her idea was simple but powerful: elevate applesauce from a basic pantry staple to a sophisticated, flavorful treat that appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for plant-based, organic, and nutritious snack options.

From Vision to Reality

Smith-Jeremie launched Sanaia Applesauce with the goal of creating a brand that celebrated heritage, health, and flavor. She debuted her applesauce line with unique combinations that stood out in a market dominated by traditional, sugar-laden applesauce brands.

Her big break came when she pitched Sanaia Applesauce on Shark Tank, gaining national recognition and sparking consumer interest. While she didn’t secure a deal, the exposure helped propel her brand forward, leading to retail partnerships, e-commerce success, and a growing fan base.

What Sets Sanaia Applesauce Apart?

1. Tropical & Unexpected Flavors – Unlike typical applesauce, Sanaia offers flavors like Guava, Tamarind, and Hibiscus, providing a Caribbean-inspired twist on a familiar snack.
2. Plant-Based & Vegan-Friendly – Made with real fruit and natural ingredients, Sanaia appeals to health-conscious and plant-based consumers.
3. Adult-Friendly Snacking – Smith-Jeremie positioned her brand as an elevated applesauce experience, perfect for pairing with cheese, granola, or even cocktails.
4. Sustainability & Wellness – The brand focuses on eco-friendly packaging and ethical sourcing, aligning with the values of modern, conscious consumers.

Overcoming Challenges & Breaking Barriers

As a Black woman entrepreneur in the food industry, Keisha Smith-Jeremie faced challenges in securing funding and breaking into major retail spaces. However, her resilience, business acumen, and passion for her brand have helped her carve out a niche in the competitive snack industry.

She continues to advocate for diversity in food entrepreneurship and serves as an inspiration to other Black women looking to disrupt traditional industries with innovative products.

The Future of Sanaia Applesauce

With the rise of healthy, plant-based snacking, Sanaia Applesauce is poised for growth. Smith-Jeremie aims to expand her product line, introduce new flavor combinations, and bring her Caribbean-inspired applesauce to more households across the country.

Her journey proves that with passion, creativity, and determination, it’s possible to take a childhood favorite and turn it into a modern, must-have product.