ILA Launches Plant-Based Energy Bars After Six-Year Formulation Process

ATLANTA, GA, Sept. 17, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- ILA, a company founded by practicing clinical herbalists Amy Saleh and Eileen Brantley, has launched its first two plant-based energy bars, ILA Chocolate and ILA Peanut. The six-year journey to bring these products to market underscores the founders' commitment to creating a truly effective and sustainable energy solution.

Saleh and Brantley, both with over two decades of combined experience in herbalism and nutrition, set out to create a product that would support daily adaptogenic use. "We didn't start with a business plan," Saleh explained.

The core of ILA's approach is its Macro Meets Micro formulation, which combines whole-food ingredients with adaptogenic herbs. Each bar delivers 9 grams of plant-based protein from pea and hemp, naturally sweetened with dates and coconut blossom syrup. The products are non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and free from artificial ingredients. ILA is a member of the American Herbal Products Association, ensuring that its products meet high standards of quality and safety.

What sets ILA apart is the extensive time and effort invested in the formulation process. "ILA took six years." This extended timeline was not due to flavor testing, but rather to ensuring that the herbs were dosed correctly and sourced from reliable suppliers.

The founders worked closely with food scientist Gana Otgonbayar to translate their herbal knowledge into a shelf-stable product.

Both launch flavors, ILA Chocolate and ILA Peanut, include key adaptogens such as Reishi and Ashwagandha. These herbs are known for their ability to support the body's stress response and provide sustained energy. "We believe in the power of these herbs," Brantley stated.

ILA Chocolate pairs cocoa and chocolate pieces with the brand's core formulation, while ILA Peanut uses real peanut butter and roasted peanuts. Both products are available now in 5-pack and 12-pack formats, with subscription ordering options available on the company's website, ila-life.com. Wholesale partners can also order through Faire.

For Saleh and Brantley, the six-year timeline was never a delay. "We're herbalists first," Saleh said. "That means we don't get to shortcut dosing just because it would help us launch faster. We'd rather be six months late and right than six months early and not able to stand behind it."

The launch of ILA Chocolate and ILA Peanut marks a significant step for the company in its mission to make adaptogens accessible and effective for everyone.