Our Story
On November 22, 2022, Bananinhas was born in the heart of Vale do Ribeira, São Paulo.
Sam arrived in Brazil in 2021, from Belgium. After some time in Rio de Janeiro, he met the woman who would change his life. She was from Eldorado, a small town surrounded by banana plantations. Falling in love, Sam left the big city and moved to Vale do Ribeira.
It was while living with her family—banana growers for generations—that Sam realized something that deeply bothered him: every day, many green, perfect, and healthy bananas were discarded simply because there was no market for them or due to minor cosmetic flaws.
That image stuck in his mind. That's when the idea came: what if we could rescue these bananas and turn them into something good?
Thus, Bananinhas was born.
They started simply, almost artisanally, with a small gas fryer. The goal was always clear: to create crispy, delicious banana chips, 100% vegan, gluten-free, and preservative-free, while generating value where there was once waste.
From day one, they decided to do everything with two simple rules: Love in their hands. Efficiency in their minds.
Today, more than three years later, Bananinhas continues to grow step by step, always maintaining its artisanal essence and respect for the local community.
Our Journey
11/22/2022 — Official start of Bananinhas
First production with a gas fryer and simple transparent bags.
06/2023 — Arrival of the first professional packaging
Launch of the visual identity with the toucan.
08/2023 — First private label partnership.
Start of production for Univale Foods.
07/2024 — Arrival of industrial fryers
A big step in production quality and consistency.
02/2025 — Second private label partnership.
Beginning with Ban-fruty Nanikinha Chips.
05/2025 — Launch of the new premium metallic packaging.
The toucan takes on the colors of the Belgian flag, a subtle homage to the founder.
10/2025 — Launch of our online store
Now we ship throughout Brazil.
Each packet that leaves our small factory carries a bit of this story — of rescued bananas, dignified work for the local community, and a greater purpose.
Thank you for being part of this journey.