Founder & CEO of Panacheeza

Janessa Steenberg is the founder of Panacheeza, a plant-based Parmesan-style cheese company based in Rochester, New York. Inspired by her Italian-Maltese roots and a love for clean, wholesome food, she set out to recreate the flavor of traditional Parmesan using just five simple ingredients.

After going plant-based in 2009, Janessa began experimenting in her kitchen, eventually developing the Panacheeza recipe that’s now gaining traction for its authentic taste and minimal ingredients. Since launching in 2023, the company has grown rapidly—expanding into local dining facilities like those at RIT and reporting a 500% increase in sales.

Janessa was also the first recipient of RIT’s Venture Creations’ Ignite initiative, which provided mentorship and funding to support Panacheeza’s growth. Through her work, she continues to champion sustainable, health-conscious food that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Catch Janessa Steenberg at Rochester VegFest 2025

🎤 3:30–4:30 PM – Rochester Vegan Entrepreneurs Panel
📍 Speaker Tent, Parcel 5 – Downtown Rochester

Learn more at panacheeza.com, or follow @panacheeza on Instagram and Panacheeza on Facebook.