Farmer checking the ripening pepper spikes on a tall vine

From Cambodia to Germany – and back

The story of PeppCorn begins in the 1970s, in the midst of one of the darkest chapters of Cambodian history. Under the rule of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, the country experienced unimaginable suffering that forced millions of people to flee.

Nau Stülpnagel, the founder of PeppCorn, was a little girl at the time. Orphaned, she found herself alone in a world torn apart by violence and chaos. Through the efforts of the Red Cross she was brought to Germany – a country that offered her a new life, safety and the chance of a future.

Yet despite her new home, her bond with Cambodia remained deep. The memories of the country of her childhood, its scents, its flavours and the warmth of its people accompanied her all her life.

Two monks in orange robes in front of a temple gate in Angkor

Back to the roots – an encounter with home

Decades later, Nau's journey led her back to Cambodia. It was a return filled with mixed feelings: joy at rediscovering her roots, but also the pain of the scars the past had left behind.

In the Kampot region, famous for its exceptional pepper, Nau found not only the beauty of her homeland again, but also a mission: she wanted to give something back – to the country that had shaped her, and to the people who keep fighting for their traditions and their craft despite all adversity.

Nau Stülpnagel with the PeppCorn team at the market stall with Kampot pepper

The birth of PeppCorn – enjoyment with responsibility

Our pepper is carefully selected right after the harvest in Cambodia and prepared for transport to Germany. Once here, we pack it by hand – with the same care with which it was harvested.

This gentle handling preserves the full aroma, and every delivery reaches you as fresh and unadulterated as possible. Our environmentally friendly packaging protects the pepper perfectly and preserves its quality – for a taste experience second to none.

Nau Stülpnagel on her farm visit in Kampot between the pepper vines

Sustainability and partnership in focus

PeppCorn is built on direct cooperation with the farmers of the Swiss Farm and the neighbouring small farms. Through this close connection, PeppCorn guarantees not only exceptional quality but also fair pay and sustainable working conditions. A large part of the profit flows back into the region, supporting projects that promote education, health and sustainable agriculture.

These values are not just words: Nau and Khom travel to Kampot regularly to talk with the farmers about challenges, progress and new ideas. The visits are marked by mutual respect and the shared goal of creating products that convince both in taste and in ethics.

The Swiss Farm in Cambodia
Black Kampot peppercorns from the paper bag on a card "Pfeffrige Grüße"

PeppCorn today – a symbol of enjoyment and responsibility

Today PeppCorn is far more than a purveyor of spices and delicacies. It is a bridge between Cambodia and the world, a way to enjoy exceptional flavours while doing good.

"With PeppCorn we want to connect the stories of our childhood, the traditions of our homeland and the future of the people in Kampot." – Nau Stülpnagel

Every purchase from PeppCorn supports not only the preservation of traditional craftsmanship, but also a sustainable future for the people of Cambodia.

PeppCorn invites you to become part of this story – and to bring a piece of Cambodian passion into your home with every product.

PeppCorn products