Chef Cares Project Co., Ltd. is a purpose-driven social enterprise based in Bangkok, Thailand, dedicated to creating high-quality ready-to-eat meals while fostering social good. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative has since evolved into a leading impact brand under the leadership of Marisa Chearavanont, focusing on culinary excellence, youth empowerment, and community resilience.
Through its premium line of chef-designed meals and snacks, the company merges the talents of Thailand’s top culinary professionals with scalable manufacturing to provide nutritious, restaurant-grade food solutions to consumers and social beneficiaries alike.
Company Overview
Founded in 2020, Chef Cares began as a movement to support healthcare workers during Thailand’s COVID-19 crisis. By partnering with over 70 of Thailand’s leading chefs, the project distributed over 200,000 chef-made meals to frontline responders. The overwhelming public and professional support led to the formal incorporation of Chef Cares Project Co., Ltd. as a social enterprise committed to sustainable development through food innovation.
Product Portfolio
Chef Cares specializes in high-quality, ready-to-eat (RTE) meal solutions inspired by Thai and international cuisine. Their product categories include:
1. Ready-to-Eat Meals
- Chicken Tikka Masala with Turmeric Rice
- Mixed Seafood and Fried Fish in Drunken Sauce with Rice
- BBQ Pork with Rice and Bok Choy
- Spaghetti with Seafood and Tom Yum Sauce
- Roasted Duck in Red Curry with Rice
- Spaghetti with Rose Cream Sauce and Chicken Breast
- Bak Kut Teh
- Rice Mixed with Spicy Shrimp Paste Relish and Sweet Pork
- Stir-fried Green Curry Chicken Breast with Rice
- Mango Sticky Rice
Each recipe is developed in collaboration with award-winning chefs and includes nutrition labeling, HACCP-standard production, and reheatable packaging designed for convenience and quality retention.
2. Frozen Fruit-Based Snacks
- Golden Honey Mango Ice Stick
- Golden Honey Mango Ice Stick dipped with Chocolate
Designed as a premium dessert or functional snack option, these products highlight Thailand’s tropical fruit heritage with minimal processing and natural ingredients.
Brand and Market Presence
- Operates under the consumer brand Chef Cares
- Available in Thailand’s leading convenience stores and supermarkets, including 7-Eleven, Gourmet Market, and Tops
- Products are also served in airlines and hospitality outlets, adding value to premium travel and lifestyle experiences
- Presence in CSR and social impact circles due to its nonprofit origins and commitment to youth development
Manufacturing and Quality Assurance
- All meals are produced in HACCP- and GMP-certified facilities
- Cold-chain logistics and MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) ensure freshness and extended shelf life
- Private label and co-branded meal development available for partners and institutions
Social Impact Programs
1. Chef Cares Dream Academy
- A culinary and life-skills training initiative for underprivileged Thai youth
- Offers fully sponsored scholarships, mentorship from top chefs, and job placement support
- Supported by CSR funding and proceeds from meal sales
2. Ongoing Meal Donations
- Since inception, over 200,000 meals donated to healthcare workers, disaster victims, and underserved communities
- Continues to collaborate with NGOs and hospitals across Thailand
Financial and Operational Metrics
As a social enterprise, Chef Cares reinvests a significant portion of its earnings into community programs. While it does not publish conventional financial reports, key indicators show:
- Estimated meal production capacity: Over 15,000 units per day
- Retail penetration: Products in more than 1,500 retail points nationwide
- Growth trajectory: 25–30% annual growth driven by retail expansion and CSR partnerships
- Unit sales: Over 3 million Chef Cares meals sold as of 2024
Export Readiness
Chef Cares is actively exploring regional export partnerships in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and select Western markets. Key export advantages include:
- Halal-certified options for Muslim-majority countries
- Packaging in multi-lingual formats for international retail
- Modular production allows for flavor localization and private-label variants
Target Customers
- Health- and convenience-conscious consumers
- Corporate partners looking for impact-driven food gifting or CSR co-branding
- Government and NGOs seeking scalable meal distribution solutions
- Travel, airline, and hospitality partners requiring premium ready-meals
Testimonials
“Chef Cares isn’t just good food—it’s a movement that supports real change. We’re proud to serve their meals at our events.”
— CSR Director, Thai Telecom Group
“The Dream Academy gives underprivileged youth a real career path. I started as a student and am now a sous chef in Bangkok.”
— Alumni, Chef Cares Dream Academy
Media and Recognition
- Featured in Forbes Asia, Bangkok Post, and CNN Travel
- Partner of Thailand's Ministry of Social Development
- Recognized by UNDP Thailand for SDG contributions
- Regular speaker at ASEAN Social Enterprise Conferences
Videos and Digital Engagement
- Over 100,000 YouTube views across brand documentaries and product explainers
- Strong social media presence with active campaigns on Facebook and Instagram
- Educational content includes recipe insights, chef interviews, and impact reports
Chef Cares Project Co., Ltd. exemplifies how food can be a force for good—blending culinary artistry with social innovation. With scalable operations, a growing product portfolio, and a mission rooted in equity and empowerment, Chef Cares is not only nourishing consumers but also nurturing Thailand’s next generation of culinary professionals.
