In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Caitlin Bricker welcomes Alan Scholnick, founder and CEO of Datefix, for a thoughtful conversation on innovation, wellness, and entrepreneurship in the food industry. Alan shares how his journey from real estate and private aviation to launching a natural food brand was driven by a passion for fitness, clean nutrition, and a memorable introduction to dates through his mother-in-law's pastry.
Alan discusses the inspiration behind Datefix—a simple yet powerful concept that turns one of nature's oldest fruits, the date, into a convenient, portable energy source that's now available in over 3,000 locations including Walmart and Whole Foods. He explains how Datefix bridges the gap between health, flavor, and functionality, serving as both a nutritious snack and a reliable fuel for athletes, busy professionals, and individuals managing diabetes—proving that fresh fruit can be shelf-stable without refrigeration for over two years with just two ingredients.
Throughout the conversation, they delve into the nutritional science and versatility of dates, exploring their role as a low-glycemic, fiber-rich source of sustained energy that's solving real problems for the Type 1 diabetes community and elite athletes (including potential 2028 Olympic marathoners). Alan reflects on the brand's authentic approach to marketing and consumer education, emphasizing humor, transparency, and a commitment to bringing natural foods back to the forefront of modern wellness—including calling out the "natural flavors" and protein-washing trends in the industry.
Whether you're an athlete looking for clean fuel, someone managing blood sugar, or simply seeking healthier snacking options, this episode offers honest insights on building a brand around radical simplicity, zero food waste, and making fresh fruit accessible and practical for modern lifestyles.
Connect with the guests:
Alan Scholnick — Founder & CEO, Datefix
🔗 LinkedIn: / alan-scholnick-70a7061b5
🌐 Website: https://datefix.com/
Caitlin Bricker — Managing Editor, Startup CPG
🔗 LinkedIn: / caitlinbricker
Key Topics:
00:36 – Introduction to Alan Scholnick and Datefix: fresh fruit made to go
02:25 – Alan's background: from real estate and private aviation to food entrepreneurship
03:32 – The origin story: mother-in-law's pastry and discovering dates for the first time
05:09 – What makes Datefix different from traditional energy gels
08:18 – The shelf stability miracle: two ingredients, two years, no refrigeration
10:09 – Solving fruit waste: why dates are nature's long-lasting fresh fruit
11:54 – The Type 1 diabetes discovery: low-glycemic fuel and blood sugar stability
14:01 – Customer stories: Olympic marathoners and the diabetes community
16:18 – Nutritional benefits: potassium, fiber, and sustained energy without sugar crash
18:25 – Where Datefix is going: radical simplicity and making dates mainstream
20:25 – Marketing approach: no BS education and calling out "natural flavors"
23:43 – Where to find Datefix: 3,000+ locations including Walmart and Whole Foods
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