FoodTech & AgriTech​

Food Analytics is carving out a unique niche by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and behavioral science into the world of food innovations. This platform offers a fresh perspective by analyzing food products through machine learning and combining insights from several academic disciplines. “We leverage machine learning and advanced analytics to generate a comprehensive evaluation of food assets,” said Richard Delerins, the founder and CEO of Food Analytics. Their data-driven approach helps food companies and investors make informed decisions that drive growth and innovation. A Team That’s Passionate About Food and Innovation Behind every successful startup is a team that not only believes in the mission but also lives it. At Food Analytics, this couldn’t be more accurate. “Everybody in our team comes with a unique set of business acumen & industry knowledge, but more importantly, our team is intensely passionate about food industry,” Delerins emphasized. This passion fuels their ability to blend AI and behavioral science in food innovation into a cohesive solution that caters to a range of clients in the Food & Beverage sector. Unique Solutions for the Food & Beverage Industry Food Analytics offers a service that is truly one-of-a-kind. They don’t just assess food products; they forecast future performance based on multiple dimensions, such as profitability and scalability. “Our algorithms may also be used to forecast future performance, such as revenue growth,” explained Delerins. This is a game-changer for both food companies and investors, providing a deeper understanding of a product’s potential beyond basic market research. Their proprietary software and unique combination of academic insights make them stand out in the competitive food tech landscape. A Vision for the Future: Making Data More Accessible Though already a success, Food Analytics continues to innovate. One of their major goals is to make their platform more accessible through a SaaS model. Currently, their solutions are customized for each client, but soon, food companies and investors will be able to access these insights through a software platform. “We are working on making our capabilities even more accessible through this development,” said Delerins. This move will further solidify their position as a leader in food tech innovation. What’s Next for FoodAnalytics and Behavioral Science in Food Innovation? Participating in international events like SIAL Startup is just the beginning for Food Analytics. The company is keen on meeting forward thinkers in the food industry to expand its network and continue its growth. “We expect to meet forward thinkers & innovators in the Food & Beverage industry who can become our future collaborators,” Delerins mentioned. With such an innovative solution and a clear vision for the future, Food Analytics is poised to lead the next wave of innovation in the food tech space. If you’re excited about the innovations happening in the food tech industry, be sure to attend the SIAL F&B Exhibition in Paris, happening this week from October 19-23rd. Grab your tickets now to join in-person and discover the latest trends firsthand. If you can’t make it to Paris, no worries! We’ll be doing a live stream from the event on our Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn, so you won’t miss a thing. Stay tuned for exclusive insights, live interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage straight from the exhibition floor!

Attending a food and beverage trade show can be a turning point for your startup, offering a prime opportunity to showcase your innovations — whether food products or Foodtech solutions — and connect with key industry players.  But it’s important to remember that food fairs are more than just a sales opportunity—they’re about creating an experience. Attendees engage all their senses, tasting, seeing, and learning about your offerings in real time. This makes how you present yourself as crucial as what you’re showcasing.  Proper preparation is essential to avoid missing out on potential leads and partnerships.  Whether it’s your first food and beverage trade show or you’re looking to elevate your game, a solid strategy is key! Pre-Show: Preparation Is a Key Do your research Identify who’s attending, target the buyers and partners you want to engage, and understand how your products or technologies fit into the market. Be clear about the specific problems you solve for your target audience, so they can see the value in stopping by your booth. Reach out to previous startup exhibitors and ask for their tips and advice. Set a clear strategy and goals To help guide your strategy, consider these key questions: Before the event, define specific and measurable objectives to stay focused and track your success. Setting clear, quantifiable targets helps you evaluate your performance post-show and ensures you’re working toward concrete outcomes.  Examples of measurable goals include:  Promote in advance Don’t wait for the show to promote your presence. Share on social media, send invites, and include the event in your email marketing. Tag the organizers to increase visibility. Example from startup The Crushi who promoted their presence at SIAL and Horecava on Linkedin : Prepare your booth Design a visually appealing display. People eat with their eyes first, so make sure your booth is neat and showcases your products beautifully. Consider showing raw ingredients and clear packaging to attract visitors. Example with S’Noods at Summer Fancy Food Show 2024: Get your materials ready Ensure you have all necessary materials: business cards, brochures, and promotional items. A landing page with a QR code to access product info can be a cost-effective alternative to printed materials. However, at food trade shows, many still prefer business cards and printed materials, so keep that in mind. Staff training Train your team to handle objections and maintain a positive attitude throughout the event. They should be prepared to highlight your unique selling points and engage effectively with attendees. During The Show: Make a Strong Impact Stay positive and engaging  If you receive negative feedback, don’t take it personally. Keep smiling and stay approachable, even when you’re tired — positive energy is contagious. Expect crowds Trade shows are busy, so prepare for a constant flow of visitors. Stand, don’t sit, and be ready to engage potential leads as they walk by. Make it a feast for the senses Engage attendees visually and with tastings, if possible. Keep your booth clean and products well-presented. Hands-on demos can capture attention effectively. Safety first Since attendees may not be familiar with your company and could be cautious about food products from startups, it’s crucial to demonstrate safety. Using utensils and providing pre-portioned samples will help ensure hygiene and build trust with potential customers. Be interactive and creative Even though it’s a business food and beverage trade show, people are here to enjoy themselves too! Food is fun, so tap into that by adding interactive elements like demos, tastings, or contests. Engaging visitors with a memorable experience will not only capture attention but also make your booth stand out from the rest. Le Magicien Bio at SIAL Paris 2022 featured costumed performers in magician attire, captivating magic tricks, and enchanting decorations: 📸: Le Magicien Bio Partner with other startups Network with complementary exhibitors and share leads to expand your potential client base and foster future partnerships. Track your leads  Ensure you capture contact details of interested buyers—business cards, notebooks, or lead capture tools. Don’t miss any follow-up opportunities. Post-Show: Follow Through To Maximize ROI Prompt follow-up Reach out to leads within a week. Your first email should thank them, offer further engagement opportunities, and extend any special offers. Focus on building the relationship, not hard-selling. Evaluate your success Review your performance against the goals you set. How many leads did you generate? What feedback did you receive? Use this to improve your approach for future shows. Keep the momentum going  Share a recap of your trade show experience on social media, thanking everyone who visited your booth. Stay active in engaging potential clients and partners from the event.

Lebanon-based International Factory for Food and Beverages (IFFB) is reshaping the beverage industry by offering premium co-packing services for energy drinks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. Founded in 2021, IFFB has rapidly become a key regional player, focusing on high-quality production, innovation, and operational efficiency. Led by Peter Abi Ramia and Mikel Abi Ramia, the company produces 24,000 cans per hour. “We saw a global shortage of carbonated beverages in cans and recognized an opportunity,” Peter noted. “Our vision is to provide flexible co-packing solutions with shorter lead times to meet market demands.” This proactive strategy is fueling IFFB’s swift growth. The Significance Behind the IFFB Name International Factory for Food and Beverages (IFFB) reflects the company’s ambitions. Peter explained, “The name embodies our core beverage production business and our future expansion into food, targeting international markets.”With aspirations to break into European and African markets, IFFB aims to become a dominant player in the beverage industry, all while diversifying its product portfolio. Meeting Market Needs with Innovative Expertise IFFB’s product lineup spans energy drinks, RTD vodka mixes, non-alcoholic beers, carbonated beverages, and iced teas. Their cutting-edge facilities ensure that every batch meets the highest standards, offering consumers great taste and functionality.”Our target audience includes anyone who enjoys carbonated beverages,” Peter noted. “What differentiates us is our adaptability. We quickly respond to market demands, and our shorter lead times provide a competitive edge.”Their adaptability is proving successful. IFFB’s monthly sales continue to increase, “We haven’t lost a single customer,” added Mikel. “Our commitment to quality and efficiency keeps clients returning.” Overcoming Scaling Challenges IFFB’s rapid expansion does not come without challenges. “Scaling a co-packing company requires careful coordination, especially in managing raw materials and ensuring that production maintains high standards,” Peter admitted. One of their key obstacles is maintaining operational efficiency during rapid growth. To meet these demands, they are heavily investing in technology and refining processes. “We’re continuously innovating, from product development to production operations,” Mikel emphasized. This constant innovation helps them stay competitive in a fast-evolving market. Expanding Through SIAL Startup Village A major part of IFFB’s growth strategy includes participation in SIAL Startup Village, a prominent event for food and beverage startups. Peter shared, “We want to expand into the EU and Africa, and SIAL offers valuable exposure to potential clients and partners.” Through this platform, IFFB hopes to secure new sales leads and build connections that will help drive international expansion. The Outsourcing Trend in Beverage Production With beverage production becoming increasingly complex, outsourcing to specialized co-packers like IFFB has become increasingly popular. The global co-packing market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% from 2021 to 2026, driven by companies seeking to lower production costs and enhance efficiency. Co-packing companies leverage this trend by providing flexible solutions that help businesses reduce expenses while upholding high-quality standards. Their adherence to international safety certifications, including FSSC 22000, Halal, ISO 22000, and HACCP, further strengthen their position as trusted co-packing partners. Future Outlook Looking ahead, IFFB is focused on expanding its customer base and product offerings while remaining committed to quality and innovation. Peter said, “Our vision is to continuously grow and offer new, exciting products for local and international markets while maintaining our commitment to excellence in taste and operational efficiency.”With its advanced facilities, skilled team, and ambition to lead in beverage co-packing, IFFB is poised to become a global leader in the industry.

Retail Robotics Solutions (RRS) is advancing rapidly with its innovative AI technology in corporate catering and self-service restaurants. Founded in 2022, the company quickly became a leader in integrating computer vision and Robot-Cashier systems. We caught up with CEO Dmitri Rodin and Head of Customer Satisfaction Ilya Zelikin to dive into their work, ambitious plans for the future, and how outsourcing plays a key role in scaling the business. A Visionary Beginning Dimitri Rodin, with over 20 years of executive experience, co-founded RRS after meeting with an angel investor and a computer scientist. Their talks on computer vision and Robot-Cashier technology sparked an idea: “To revolutionize the way people experience dining in cafeterias and self-service restaurants by making it as easy as taking a selfie.” This principle has guided RRS’s journey. The Technology Behind the Innovation RRS employs advanced equally AI and Robot-Cashier solutions to streamline food service, reduce queues, lower costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Rodin highlights their edge in brief: “We’ve become the global leader in recognition accuracy for freshly-made food.” Furthermore he adds that their technology excels at identifying overlapping food items, a challenge for many competitors. Zelikin explains, “With three successful pilots and a €2.4 million contract, we’ve proven our solution delivers results from day one.” This success shows strong demand and sets the stage for future growth. Targeting the Corporate Catering Sector RRS primarily focuses on large corporations in the corporate catering sector, including major players such as Elior, Sodexo, and Compass Group. Additionally, their expertise allows them to cater specifically to the needs of these industry leaders. Their in-depth understanding of client needs helps them to implement solutions seamlessly, including integrating Robot-Cashier systems, without disrupting existing workflows. Zelikin also highlights, “After two years of negotiations with target clients, we know how to implement our solution effectively.” Scaling Operations and Outsourcing As RRS expands its presence across Europe and prepares to enter the U.S. market, outsourcing plays a vital role in its strategy. Industry statistics indicate that 59% of companies generally utilize outsourcing to improve operational efficiency. The company plans to partner with software and hardware companies, including also those in Robot-Cashier tech, to drive growth. Dimitri highlights its strong track record with top stakeholders. Its diverse team from 11 countries helps it navigate complex markets and build key partnerships. Future Goals and Ambitions For 2024, RRS aims emphatically to boost revenue and expand AI-based terminals and Robot-Cashier systems with Pingo Doce in Portugal. Rodin also adds, “Our goal in the U.S. is to start Proof of Concepts with key players in self-service restaurants and corporate catering.” With a U.S. office opening in fall 2024, RRS is certainly ready to impact the FoodTech industry. They aim to be recognized at SIAL Startup Village, considering it a crucial opportunity to attract investors and industry leaders. The Drive for Change What motivates Rodin and Zelikin? Rodin reveals, “I wake up every morning with a clear understanding that we are changing the business practices of the entire global food service industry.” This conviction fuels their ambition to radically enhance customer satisfaction, saving office managers valuable time that would otherwise be spent in lines.

As the world looks for sustainable alternatives to conventional protein sources, startups like Planetary, based in Switzerland, are paving the way for a greener and healthier food system. Founded in 2022 by Marison Ian and David Brandes, the company is a venture-backed food tech company that aims to power the economy by building industrial-scale infrastructure globally. Their core innovation lies in precision fermentation, and they’re set to make a significant mark on the global protein supply with their versatile mycoprotein product.”We’re building the bioeconomy together,” reads Planetary’s tagline. This vision aligns with the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based, and microbial proteins in a world that is grappling with the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. Precision Fermentation: Scaling for Global Impact Planetary’s focus on precision fermentation is no accident. This method allows for the production of high-quality proteins without the environmental downsides of traditional animal agriculture. According to a recent study by the Good Food Institute, precision fermentation can reduce land use by up to 99% and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 87% compared to conventional meat production.”Our goal is to provide food producers with a sustainable, healthy, and versatile ingredient in the form of mycoprotein,” said one of the co-founders during the interview. The company is already building its first facility in Switzerland, set to begin operations at the end of 2024. This facility will serve as a cornerstone in Planetary’s mission to contribute to diversifying the global protein supply. A Team of Experts Driving Innovation Planetary’s small but highly specialized team of 10 employees works in Switzerland and remotely, bringing together expertise in bioprocessing, engineering, product development, and business. Their multidisciplinary approach has helped the company scale rapidly despite being in the early stages of development.”We’ve built a team of experts in bioprocessing, engineering, product development, and business to create a winning combination,” the team shared. This focus on building a strong internal foundation is key to ensuring they meet their ambitious goals in the coming years. The Growing Bioeconomy: Opportunities and Challenges As a participant in SIAL Startup Village, Planetary aims to connect with industry leaders and generate new customer leads. “We’re looking to establish strong connections within the industry and secure new customers,” the commercial director, Eleanor McSweeney, said. They also hope to lead in building the bioeconomy, which the OECD predicts could reach a global market size of $2 trillion by 2030. However, like any ambitious startup, Planetary faces its own challenges. “What keeps us awake at night is the rapid scaling required to meet market demand while maintaining high quality and sustainability standards,” admitted the team. But they remain driven by the potential impact they can make. “The idea of building a better, more sustainable food system is what gets us up every morning,” they added. The Road Ahead for Planetary Looking forward to 2024, Planetary’s primary goal is to get its first factory up and running. The company plans to expand its team, particularly as it scales its operations and production capacity. “We’ll likely be hiring at the end of this year to support our growth,” McSweeney noted. Their entry into the food-tech space comes at a pivotal moment when consumer demand for alternative proteins is at an all-time high. According to Euromonitor data, the global plant-based protein market is expected to grow at a 9.7% CAGR from 2021 to 2028. With such promising market trends and a clear roadmap, Planetary is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on both the food industry and the environment.” We believe that precision fermentation can revolutionize food production,” one of the co-founders emphasized. “And we’re excited to be part of that transformation.”

Founded in 2020 by Alexandre Thebaud, Emile Maine, and Alexis Karkour, based in Grasse, Côte d’Azur, JANE is a French startup making waves in the beverage industry with its innovative approach to natural, functional drinks. With just two dedicated employees and a clear vision, the company is quickly carving out its niche in a competitive market, offering consumers a taste of well-being through its unique product line. A Name Rooted in Elegance and Innovation When asked about the origin of the company’s name, JANE’s founders shared an interesting story. “JANE is an elegant contraction of Mary Jane. Initially, we launched our first drink, a CBD iced tea, hence the reference to the plant,” they explained. This reflects their mission to create drinks that not only taste good but also promote wellness, something their flagship product embodied from the start. A Holistic Approach to Well-Being Its focus on holistic well-being sets JANE apart from its competitors. The company has partnered with Robertet, the world leader in natural flavoring, to develop drinks that cater to consumers’ daily needs. “We wanted to prove that a drink could be healthy, accessible, and very interesting in taste,” said Thebaud. This philosophy resonates with the brand’s primary audience—women aged 35-55—increasingly seeking healthier, more functional beverage options. Navigating a Competitive Market The functional and wellness beverage market is highly competitive, and recent Emulent reports estimate it will reach $208.13 billion by 2025. To differentiate itself, JANE uses unique flavors and sleek, modern designs. “Our goal is to expand into more points of sale with our innovative approach,” said Thebaud. The company is already gaining traction with just two employees, securing space in hundreds of supermarkets and restaurants. “We are listed in several hundred outlets,” they proudly shared, showcasing their growth potential. Building on Early Success with Strategic Partnerships JANE’s partnership with Robertet has been pivotal, helping the startup create standout functional drinks. “Thanks to Robertet, we’ve merged functional ingredients with innovative recipes,” Thebaud said. The company also sees value in networking at events like SIAL Startup Village, a prime platform for showcasing its products to investors and partners. “We applied to SIAL to promote our brand and develop partnerships. We hope to meet new partners, customers, and possibly investors,” Thebaud added. The Road Ahead With a strong foundation built on quality and innovation, JANE has big plans for the future. While the majority of its revenue currently comes from B2B and retail, the company is looking to expand its footprint and develop new products that continue to blend health with flavor. The global trend towards wellness is on their side, as more consumers prioritize functional foods and beverages daily.

Transparency and traceability have become critical in the complex world of agri-food supply chains. Connecting Food, a French startup founded in 2016, aims to address these challenges by offering a blockchain-powered SaaS platform that centralizes and simplifies data collection, providing real-time visibility and compliance for food suppliers and manufacturers. With its innovative solution, Connecting Food has attracted key players across the industry. It helps them ensure product compliance with European and U.S. regulations while improving accuracy and security throughout their supply chain. From Mars and Nestlé to Blockchain Innovation The idea behind Connecting Food came from the hands-on experience of its Co-Founders, Maxine Roper and Stefano Volpi. Both have worked for over 20 years at top-tier food companies like Mars, Nestlé, Danone, and Avril. “At Mars and Nestlé, we saw firsthand the challenges of connecting supply chain data to meet legal and quality standards,” said Roper. This led them to leave their C-level roles and launch Connecting Food to revolutionize data management in the agri-food sector. Why “Connecting Food”? The startup’s name, “Connecting Food,” perfectly embodies its mission. According to the Co-Founders, the company “connects the dots” between the many actors in the agriculture and food industries. By doing so, the platform increases visibility and transparency, allowing businesses to track products from farm to fork.”We bring greater visibility into supply chains by connecting all industry actors that source from agriculture. Our platform ensures compliance with both European and U.S. regulations while increasing accuracy and security,” explained Volpi. A Strong Team with Diverse Expertise Connecting Food’s team is its greatest asset. It combines Tech expertise with deep industry knowledge. Based in Paris, the team works from the heart of one of Europe’s leading hubs for innovation.”Our team brings together technology, data, and industry experience. From ex-Deezer engineers to experts in food safety testing from Eurofins, we’ve built a unique blend of talent,” said Volpi. The team also includes professionals from Carrefour, BCG, and Bearing Point, adding depth to its sales, customer success, and data management operations. Targeting the Entire Agri-Food Ecosystem Connecting Food works with various clients at every stage of the agri-food supply chain, including retailers like Migros, branded manufacturers like Barilla and General Mills, and farming groups like Axereal.“Our platform enables clients to gain visibility, precision, and compliance in their supply chain operations,” Roper explained. With increasing demand for more transparency and compliance, especially in the face of a growing regulatory landscape, The company’s value proposition continues to grow. Standing Out from the Competition In the competitive landscape of supply chain management platforms, Connecting Food distinguishes itself through its unique focus on agrifood. While competitors offer similar services, they excel in centralizing cost-efficient, comprehensive data for supplier assessment and product monitoring. “Our expertise in agri-food and precise data management set us apart in ensuring transparency and traceability,” said Volpi. This unique capability allows the company to better serve its clients’ needs while maintaining cost-efficiency. Revenue Model and Traction Connecting Food generates revenue through a subscription-based model. It offers various modules for data management, digital auditing, and product monitoring, allowing clients to select the services they need to improve their supply chain operations. The company has gained traction by securing contracts with major retailers, manufacturers, and farming groups, highlighting its growing influence in the agri-food industry. Looking Ahead: Goals for 2024 After raising an €11 million Series A and receiving financing from the European Commission, Connecting Food is preparing for a significant growth phase. The company aims to raise equity by the end of 2024 to enhance its technology and expand services. “Our goal for 2024 is to scale our platform and explore new growth opportunities in the agri-food sector,” said Roper, as the team focuses on expanding its client base and meeting the rising demand for transparency and compliance in supply chains. Why SIAL Startup Village? Participating in SIAL Startup Village offers Connecting Food a valuable opportunity to network and showcase innovations to key agri-food decision-makers while engaging with current clients and strengthening its market position. “SIAL is one of the most important trade shows for food and beverage.” It offers us the chance to meet key decision-makers and showcase the latest innovations in supply chain management,” said Volpi.

Founded in 2019 by Birgit Dekkers and Willem Spigt, Rival Foods is making waves in the food tech industry from its base in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. With a dedicated team of 18 employees, this startup aims to transform the market for plant-based meat alternatives. It offers diverse products, including chicken fillets and pulled chicken. Additionally, it is innovating with new options like tuna steaks and beef chunks. The Technology Behind the Taste At the heart of Rival Foods’ success is their patented “Shear Cell Technology,” developed in collaboration with Wageningen University. This unique approach replicates the fibrous texture of real meat, altogether ensuring an exceptional bite and consistency without additives. CCO Willem Spigt states, “Our innovations rival the conventional meat industry. We aim to provide high-quality plant-based substitutes that stand out in texture, taste, and ingredients.” Clean Ingredients for a Sustainable Future Rival Foods follows a clean-label philosophy, using basically just seven natural ingredients: water, textured plant protein (wheat gluten, soy, pea), natural flavors, salt, herbs, and spices. This commitment certainly boosts their nutritional value and meets rising consumer demand for transparency in food production. According to recent statistics, experts predict the plant-based meat market will reach $74.2 billion by 2027, with increasing consumer awareness of health and environmental issues. Rival Foods has strategically positioned itself to capitalize on this trend, especially in the B2B food service sector. Addressing Industry Gaps Spigt elaborates on the motivation behind their product development, stating, “The food service industry lacks qualitative meat alternatives that restaurants can place on their menus.” To address this, the founders aimed to create a B2B company that delivers high-quality plant-based substitutes with minimal clean-label ingredients. Rival Foods targets the food service industry, including restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. They aim to integrate innovative products into menus while reducing emissions and addressing climate change. Competing with the Best While Rival Foods faces competition from established players, they believe their unique approach sets them apart. “In the whole-cut segment, we produce and sell by far the highest quality on the market,” notes Spigt. Their focus on authentic texture and minimal ingredient lists generally positions them as a formidable contender in the plant-based space. Looking Ahead: Participation in SIAL Startup Invest Rival Foods has recently launched its products and is already seeing traction with listings in several countries. They are eager to showcase their innovations at the SIAL Startup Village event, one of the world’s most important food fairs. “We have high expectations for this trade fair in Paris this year,” Spigt shares, highlighting the opportunity to connect with potential clients from diverse customer groups within the food service industry. *Cover photo source

Founded in 2014 by Eran and Avraham Baniel, Incredo is led by Co-CEOs Kelly Thompson (Duffin) and David Tsivion, and has emerged as a leader in the food tech industry with its flagship product, Incredo Sugar. This clean-label sugar reduction solution decreases sugar content by up to 70% while maintaining the delicious taste of sugar consumers love. TIME recognised Incredo Sugar in its Best Inventions of 2020, highlighting it as a major advancement in the quest for healthier food options, and enabling consumers to enjoy their favorite treats without compromise. The Vision Behind Incredo Co-CEO Thompson shares the philosophy driving their innovation: “We named our product Incredo® Sugar because it captures the essence of our vision: enjoying your favorite sweet treats without compromise.” This innovative solution enhances taste and promotes healthier consumption, aligning with the growing demand for better-for-you products. Incredo aims to redefine sugar consumption, making it easier for people to choose healthier options without sacrificing flavor. Commitment to Health Thompson reflects on her dedication to the food industry: “I’ve dedicated my entire career to the food industry, consistently focusing on innovation. The importance of reducing sugar intake and promoting healthier lifestyles cannot be overstated.” This deep commitment shapes Incredo’s mission to improve global nutrition and transform lives through better food options.  The company focuses on health and wellness not just as a trend but as a fundamental part of its identity and goals. Our Diverse Team In general, Incredo operates from multiple locations, including laboratories in Texas and Israel, boasts a talented team of 33 professionals. This group of chemists, food technologists, engineers, and business strategists unites around a common goal: to innovate in food tech. Thompson highlights, “Our comprehensive team ensures we can address every aspect of our solution with precision, innovation, and effectiveness.” This collaborative environment emphatically fosters creativity and drives the development of cutting-edge solutions that meet consumer needs. Target Market Strategy Incredo strategically targets food manufacturers, bakeries, chefs, and chocolatiers, additionally positioning itself uniquely within a competitive landscape. Thompson explains, “Unlike other solutions, Incredo Sugar is labeled simply as ‘sugar’ because it is real sugar.” Therefore, this clean-label approach not only enhances transparency but furthermore appeals to health-conscious consumers who seek authenticity in their products. This clean-label advantage appeals to health-conscious consumers who seek transparency in their products. By emphasizing authenticity, Incredo Sugar stands out in a market often dominated by artificial sweeteners and complex ingredient lists. Revenue and Reach Incredo generates revenue through direct US and European sales, complemented by distributor partnerships. The company’s innovative products are already present in various offerings, including cookies, chocolates, snacks, and spreads, reflecting a broad market reach. This successful model not only enhances accessibility but also positions Incredo as a go-to solution for food manufacturers seeking to reduce sugar in their products without compromising taste. Consequently, it allows Incredo to effectively meet the growing demand for healthier alternatives. Strategic Expansion Plans During Incredo’s participation in SIAL Startup Village shows its commitment to expanding in Europe. Co-CEO Thompson says, “Especially we aim to showcase our innovative products and strengthen customer relationships.” This strategy seeks to boost brand awareness and generate leads for sustained growth. In 2024, Incredo plans to expand its product presence to meet the rising demand for low-sugar options. “With Incredo Sugar, we are committed to offering more reduced sugar products,” asserts Thompson, aligning with market trends and addressing health-conscious consumers.

NutrEvent, the leading European platform for nutrition innovation and collaboration, is set to showcase a range of emerging trends this year.

In an era when sustainable food sources are more crucial than ever, Divaks is in charge of innovative, insect-based ingredients for the food industry. Founded in 2020 by CEO Kęstutis Lipnickas and Chairman Audrius Grušnis in Lithuania, this startup is committed to revolutionizing how we think about protein sources. With a growing team of 18 professionals, Divaks is poised to significantly impact food production. A Shift Towards Sustainable Food Systems Insect-based ingredients represent an important step toward creating a more sustainable food system. Producing insect protein requires significantly fewer resources like water, land, and feed, emitting fewer greenhouse gases than traditional livestock farming. Insect farming produces 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional livestock. The food industry, seeking innovative ways to meet growing protein demand with limited resources, has taken notice of the reduced environmental impact of insect-based ingredients. Lithuania-based Divaks recognized this potential and developed a range of insect-based ingredients tailored to the industry’s needs. Insect Ingredients as a Game-Changer Their high nutritional value drives the shift toward insect-based ingredients. Insects are rich in proteins, vitamins, and amino acids, making them a highly efficient food source with minimal environmental impact. The FAO notes insects provide as much protein as beef but need fewer resources. Recognizing this, Divaks has become a pioneer in insect protein for the food industry. Insect protein is now a practical solution to sustainably feed the growing global population. Targeting Health-Conscious Consumers As the food industry evolves, so do consumer preferences. Millennials and Gen-Z are increasingly focused on health and sustainability, making them ideal consumers for alternative proteins like insect-based ingredients. A 2020 Innova Market Insights study found that 40% of global consumers prioritize sustainability in their food choices. Divaks targets food companies and ingredient distributors, appealing to consumers who value nutrition and environmental responsibility. The company is positioned for long-term success in an innovation-driven market by aligning with these trends. Collaboration in the Insect Industry One of the unique aspects of the insect protein industry is its focus on collaboration rather than competition. Divaks believes the collaboration will accelerate market growth as the sector is still developing. By working together, companies in the insect protein industry can boost consumer awareness and expand sustainable protein adoption. The company is partnering with European distributors and engaging directly with food companies to promote insect-based products. Their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability is what sets them apart in this rapidly growing sector. Divaks’ Revenue and Future Goals Divaks is currently building partnerships with European distributors, having already signed contracts in Italy and Germany. “We are finalizing contracts in Austria, the UK, Ireland, and Spain,” they reported. The startup is also exploring opportunities in the pet food market, broadening its reach. The company is participating in the SIAL Startup Village event for the first time, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to connect with producers and distributors while educating the food industry about the benefits of insect proteins. “We hope to enlighten others about the overall value of insect proteins,” they expressed.

CURIUS, a Swiss startup founded in 2021, is revolutionizing the beverage industry with its innovative design and functionality. Their “StayCurius” tagline reflects their drive to challenge the status quo and find better solutions. Using design to solve problems, the company is changing how beverages are presented and consumed, tackling long-standing industry inefficiencies. Why Choose the Name CURIUS? For CURIUS, the name is more than just a brand; it’s a philosophy.”Curiosity is our driving force,” says the team. “We’re not afraid to ask ‘why’ and ‘what if.'” This inquisitive approach is deeply embedded in the company’s DNA, driving it to push boundaries and create products that challenge conventional industry norms. Mats Olsson, Co-Founder of CURIUS, emphasizes, “By fostering a culture of curiosity, we uncover new opportunities and innovate beyond the ordinary.” Innovative Solutions Through Design CURIUS was founded to use design to address inefficiencies in the beverage industry. “Design is at the core of our products, solving inefficiencies long accepted as norms,” says Olsson. This commitment to design-driven problem-solving allows the company to stand out with unique, consumer-friendly products. From enhancing aesthetic appeal to addressing functional issues, CURIUS creates visually appealing and highly efficient products. A Team Built on Experience and Diversity The Founders of CURIUS—Alexander Curiger, Mats Olsson, and Juan Carlos Maroto Jara—first met in 2010 while launching Gin Mare, a premium gin brand. With over 50 years of combined experience, they work remotely from Zurich, London, and Madrid. Their diverse backgrounds and global networks allow them to tackle challenges from different angles. “With our experience and network, we challenge the status quo and offer fresh perspectives,” the team says. Targeting Discerning Drinkers CURIUS isn’t just targeting any consumer. “Our products are for discerning drinkers bored with average drinks,” says Maroto Jara. The company creates premium beverages with unique designs and real purpose, targeting sophisticated drinkers who value quality and originality. Their visually striking products, therefore, cater to consumers who seek more than just good taste. Setting New Standards in the Premium Beverage Sector In a market of established players, CURIUS stands out with its innovative, space-saving squared bottle design, which “saves over 80% of space,” the team explains. This design boosts efficiency and strengthens the product’s visual identity. Tapping into trends like Aperitivo and adult soft drinks aims to cater to those seeking new flavors and non-alcoholic options. With MATCH Tonic Water, they are ready to meet the growing demand for healthier, premium drinks. Strategic Growth and Market Expansion Since its launch in October 2023, CURIUS has made remarkable progress in the global market. “We’ve secured 20 markets for export, mainly covering the EU, and several key listings in Corte Inglés, Manor, Carrefour, Movenpick, and Globus,” the team reveals. In 2024, they plan to expand into Australia, Mexico, and the USA to reach €4.5 million in turnover. The company actively seeks new distribution partners by participating in events like SIAL Startup Village, aiming to boost global exposure. Driving Forward with Passion What keeps the CURIUS founders awake at night? “Boosting brand exposure and creating buzz around MATCH Tonic Water,” they say. Their passion for expanding the brand drives them constantly. “The same reasons that keep us awake at night motivate us each morning,” they add. Despite rapid growth, the team remains dedicated to innovation, focusing on design and efficiency, positioning CURIUS as a major player in the premium beverage market.