Melissa Hozack and her husband Rob Hozack have owned Redcliff Pharmasave for over 20 years. In 2020, Melissa saw the opportunity and created a product she knew would benefit their customers’ overall health.

From her experience in assisting people achieve a healthier lifestyle, Melissa created TrueMe Whole Health, a Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) product that replenishes essential amino acids.

There are twenty amino acids in total, eleven are classified as non-essential and are made in the body, and nine are classified as essential and come from our diet or supplements. TrueMe BCAAs include a formula that helps to rebuild and grow the essential cells Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine.

“We’ve reached athletes who need hydration after practices and high-intensity games, because it replenishes them without the extra sugars and carbs that may come from other sports drinks on the market,” says Melissa.

The BCAAs come in four flavours, Sour Watermelon, Cherry Blaster, Sour Peach and Ginger Lime. TrueMe Whole Health has recently branched into stevia drops, a concentrated flavored liquid that is a calorie and sugar-free alternative. These flavours range from caramel, chocolate, lemon, mint, vanilla, and pure stevia. TrueMe Whole Health now features essential oils, with pure, undiluted, and organic oils like citrus, peppermint, and cinnamon.

“We use all natural ingredients that are clean, and safe. They are free of dyes and only contain one sugar,” says Melissa. “We also have reduced packaging that is reflective of our commitment to be socially responsible to our environment.”

Melissa is one of the founders and owners of TrueMe Whole Health, with 80 per cent ownership in the company. Her partner is located in Montreal, Quebec, along with the warehouse and distribution facility.

Melissa believes in the small business approach. Her roots are in Medicine Hat, which have been to her benefit when meeting people to collaborate and create new initiatives with, like TrueMe Whole Health. Additionally, by wanting to stay local, she has had support from attending Women in Business events and connecting to local businesses like APEX Alberta.