The Story Behind Xtrema: Rich Bergstrom’s Journey to Pure, Safe Ceramic Cookware

The Story Behind Xtrema: Rich Bergstrom’s Journey to Pure, Safe Ceramic Cookware

|| 5 MIN READ

Rich Bergstrom’s love for ceramics started at Corning, the company that made Pyrex bakeware, Corelle dinnerware and Visions and Coring Ware cookware. Here he discovered the art, science and the material benefits of cooking with glass and ceramics. That fascination grew into a lifelong mission: to create cookware that is pure, safe, durable, beautiful and extremely versatile.

This mission culminated in the launch of Xtrema, a line of pure ceramic cookware designed for those who value both wellness and culinary excellence. Each piece in our collection reflects Rich’s dedication: crafted to withstand the test of time, free from metals, chemicals, and harmful coatings.


But Rich’s journey with Xtrema hasn’t been without personal challenges. Shortly after launching the brand, he was diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease along with multiple co-infections. This experience profoundly shaped his perspective on wellness and reinforced the importance of clean cookware. Rich realized that metal toxicity and harmful materials in the cookware could wreak havoc on the body and immune system. Determined to heal and restore his own health, he poured his heart into creating cookware that would make a tangible difference—not only for himself but for anyone seeking to nurture their body from the inside out.

From the very beginning, the wellness community recognized the power of Xtrema. Influential experts in nutrition, holistic health, and mindful living embraced our cookware, sharing its benefits with their audiences. Today, countless families and wellness enthusiasts have made Xtrema an essential part of their kitchens, using it to prepare meals that help to heal, restore, and nourish the body.


For Rich, the greatest joy comes from knowing that the cookware he designed continues to support people all over the world on their well-being journeys.  While he still pursues his own healing, he takes pride in the fact that Xtrema offers a safe and reliable way for others to care for themselves and their loved ones—one meal at a time.

We’re sharing Rich’s story as we prepare to launch something truly special in his honor. As the founder of Xtrema, his passion for ceramics and commitment to clean, non-toxic cookware has inspired everything we do—and now, a new line celebrates his legacy.

This line is a heartfelt tribute to Rich—a nostalgic return to where it all began. It embodies the heart of who we are: family-owned, rooted in wellness, and guided by Rich’s unwavering vision for pure, non-toxic ceramic cooking. 

It’s more than cookware—it’s a celebration of Rich’s legacy and the principles that built Xtrema. If you want early access, make sure to sign up for our email list to shop this exclusive collection before anyone else.

Save the date: September 26th. Get ready for a reveal the cookware world has never seen—where beauty, versatility, and elegance come together, all in honor of Rich.

about the author

Holly Bergstrom

Holly Bergstrom

Holly Bergstrom is the Brand Engagement Manager at Xtrema Cookware, and she oversees the creative direction of the company! Holly is passionate about minimizing toxic exposure and living a healthy and vibrant life form the inside out. Holly enjoys cooking, educating, and creating healthy meals for her friends and family. She desires to help every home and kitchen relearn how to slow down, be present, and cook with intention and simplicity. You can follow Holly on @livefreeandveg.

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