Elana Amsterdam, NL Obituary, Death – It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Elana Amsterdam’s passing on February 8, 2025. Elana, the visionary behind the popular food blog *Elana’s Pantry*, was a beacon of creativity, resilience, and generosity. Her death leaves a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, and the countless individuals she inspired through her work, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Elana’s journey was one of remarkable determination and purpose. A successful entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling cookbook author, and devoted mother and wife, she approached life with an intentionality that touched everyone she encountered. I had the privilege of knowing Elana for years, first meeting her at a BlogHer food conference in San Francisco. In 2019, I visited her in Boulder, Colorado, with a mutual friend. Even then, it was clear that Elana was a force of nature—someone who faced life’s challenges head-on while radiating warmth and compassion.
Her life, however, was not without its struggles. Elana battled multiple health issues with extraordinary courage. The isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with her fight against two cancers and the debilitating pain following a double mastectomy, tested her resilience. Yet, even in the face of these immense challenges, Elana remained steadfast in her mission to help others. Her strength and determination were an inspiration to all who knew her.
Elana’s impact extended far beyond her personal circle. In 1993, she founded Ecosav, a pioneering company that brought recycling programs to New York City’s commercial establishments, helping businesses reduce waste and lower their bills. Her innovative work earned her a spot on the city’s prestigious “40 Under 40” list. But Elana’s true passion lay in health and wellness. In 2006, she launched *Elana’s Pantry*, a blog that revolutionized the way people approached gluten-free and grain-free cooking. Her simple, wholesome recipes and practical health advice resonated with millions, earning her a devoted following.
Her influence grew with the publication of three cookbooks, including a New York Times bestseller. Elana was also an astute investor, backing companies like Primal Kitchen, LMNT, and Serenity Kids, which shared her vision of bringing healthier options to consumers. Her work was not just about food; it was about empowering people to live better, more fulfilling lives.
Elana’s generosity knew no bounds. She was deeply committed to giving back, supporting organizations such as the Pesticide Action Network, Baby2Baby, and the Castleman’s Disease Collaborative Network. She co-founded the Katz Amsterdam Foundation, further cementing her legacy as a philanthropist who believed in the power of systemic change. A fierce advocate for women’s health, Elana worked tirelessly to address biases in the medical system, ensuring that women’s voices were heard and their needs met.
Her passion for helping others was rooted in a lifelong goal she shared with her parents at the age of 22: to “save the world.” Whether through her entrepreneurial ventures, her writing, or her advocacy, Elana remained true to this mission. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, offering guidance, support, and hope even during her own struggles.
Elana’s passing is a traumatic and tragic loss for her family, including her husband, two sons, parents, and sister. It is also a profound loss for the *Elana’s Pantry* community and the countless lives she touched through her work. Her legacy, however, will endure. Elana’s recipes, books, and advocacy will continue to inspire and empower people for generations to come.
In this difficult time, we ask for privacy for Elana’s family as they grieve the loss of a remarkable woman. Elana Amsterdam’s light may have dimmed, but her impact on the world will shine on. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit—her kindness, her courage, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference—will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in peace, Elana. Your work here is done, and the world is better for it.