A Dash of Greece: Getting to Know Neolea
Interview with Daan Talk of Neolea
In the world of specialty foods, some brands are more than just product purveyors—they're storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and passionate advocates for quality. Neolea, a Mediterranean-inspired brand specializing in salt, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, embodies this philosophy. I connected with co-founder Daan Tolk to explore the origins, inspirations, and vision behind their brand.
Roots in Mediterranean Culture
Neolea's story begins with Daan's cousin, a musician who fell in love with Greece and its way of life. "Gathering is a very important part of Mediterranean culture," Daan explains. "Food is a great tool to connect people, regardless of their differences. Great tasting food can help overcome many barriers."
The company started with olive trees—literally in the founder's backyard on the island of Corfu. What began as a passion for high-quality olive oil soon expanded into a mission to introduce specialty Mediterranean products to a broader audience.
Neolea is about more than just selling products. It's about reviving the Mediterranean tradition of sharing meals, of breaking bread together. "Sharing food at the table brings empathy," he says. "It's about connecting, tasting, and experiencing together." We couldn't agree more.
A Partnership of Complementary Talents
Daan describes the founding partnership as a unique blend of creativity and strategy. His cousin, a musician and serial innovator, brings 500 ideas a day, while Daan, with a background in business, helps shape and focus those ideas. "He's very innovative and creative," Daan says. "I come from a business school background and try to think through strategies before we act. Our combined characteristics make for a great brand experience."
The Art of Salt Harvesting
Neolea's approach to salt is anything but ordinary. Their salt is hand-harvested from natural salt pans in the Aegean Sea, using a process that preserves the product's purity and mineral content. "We work with an expert who knows exactly where and when to harvest," Daan said. They even invested in this new partner's process to truly bring him into the company. The result is a microplastic-free salt that captures the essence of its maritime origin. I can't wait to visit and see their process firsthand.
A Flavor Journey
The salt line is a testament to Neolea's creative approach. From a pure Fleur de Sel to innovative blends like citrus and porcini, each variety tells a story of local ingredients. Daan’s personal favorite is the citrus salt—a perfect complement to fish, reflecting the brand's Mediterranean roots.
Looking Ahead
While still a small brand, Neolea is focused on partnerships, brand associations, and spreading their message of quality, purity, and connection. Their commitment to transparency—whether it's about salt mineral content or olive oil production—sets them apart in a market often dominated by mass-produced alternatives.
As our conversation winds down, it's clear that Neolea is more than a food brand. It's a bridge between cultures, a celebration of quality, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together.