Sign In

Jorge Gaviria

Founder & CEO

Jorge Gaviria is the Founder and CEO of Masienda, a company he established in 2014 that focuses on producing high-quality masa, a corn dough essential in Latin American cuisine. Masienda has become a trusted resource for chefs and home cooks alike, emphasizing an impact-based supply chain that supports over 2,000 smallholder farmers in Mexico across approximately 30,000 acres of traditional agriculture.16

Background and Education

Gaviria was born to Mexican and Cuban parents in Miami, a cultural melting pot that influenced his culinary journey. He developed a passion for food while working in various restaurants in New York City, where he observed the growing farm-to-table movement but noticed a lack of focus on staple foods like masa.67 This realization led him to create Masienda to elevate the quality of masa available in the U.S. market.

Masienda's Mission

Masienda aims to reinvent the masa supply chain by sourcing heirloom, non-GMO corn directly from Mexico. The company not only provides masa products but also educates consumers about traditional techniques and flavors associated with Mexican cuisine. Gaviria's commitment to quality and sustainability has helped Masienda grow significantly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when the company pivoted to a direct-to-consumer model.136

Achievements

Gaviria has received recognition for his work, including being named one of Forbes' "30 Under 30" in the food and wine category. He is also the author of MASA: Techniques, Recipes, and Reflections on a Timeless Classic, which explores the history and science behind masa.347 Under his leadership, Masienda has expanded its product offerings and distribution channels, including partnerships with retailers like Whole Foods.16

Personal Philosophy

Gaviria is passionate about supporting other LatinX entrepreneurs and actively works to open his network for mentorship and collaboration.2 His approach combines culinary tradition with modern business practices, aiming to create a sustainable future for both his company and the communities involved in his supply chain.57

Highlights

Apr 23 · tablemagazine.com
Jorge Gaviria and His Masa Mission - Table Magazine
Jul 6 · youtube.com
Jorge Gaviria Discusses Giving Back and Receiving Rewards
Jorge Gaviria Discusses Giving Back and Receiving Rewards
Meet the Entrepreneur Who Beat the Pandemic: Jorge Gaviria ...
What Masienda Founder Jorge Gaviria Always Has In His Kitchen
Sep 6 · masienda.com
Story – Masienda

Related Questions

How did Jorge Gaviria's background influence his decision to start Masienda?
What challenges did Jorge Gaviria face when pivoting Masienda during the pandemic?
How does Masienda's impact-based supply chain benefit smallholder farmers?
What inspired Jorge Gaviria to write his cookbook, MASA?
How has Masienda's direct-to-consumer model evolved since the pandemic?
Jorge Gaviria
Jorge Gaviria, photo 1
Add to my network

Location

Los Angeles, California, United States