FoodTech & AgriTech Insights

Tech for Retail 2024 held in Paris last week showcased a wide array of startups introducing groundbreaking solutions to revolutionize the retail industry. Among these, food retail innovation stood out as a key area of focus, addressing critical challenges such as managing perishable goods and advancing sustainability. While many themes were explored at the event, we delved into the latest advancements in this sector. In this article, we highlight seven startups transforming food retail with practical solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and drive sustainability across the industry Onethird: predicting freshness to combat food waste OneThird tackles food waste with AI technology that predicts the shelf life of fresh produce and assesses ripeness in real time. This helps retailers, suppliers, and consumers make smarter decisions. Their AI-powered freshness scanners let shoppers check the ripeness of produce, such as avocados, without squeezing or damaging them. This reduces spoilage while improving inventory management. These scanners are already in use at Jumbo (Netherlands) and Migros (Switzerland). By gamifying the shopping experience, they make fresh produce management more efficient. Holis: life cycle analysis for greener retail Holis provides a SaaS platform that automates life cycle analysis (LCA). This tool helps reduce the environmental impact of products by modeling value chains and connecting suppliers. With insights into eco-design, Holis enables businesses to create more sustainable products. This platform is especially useful for food retailers who want to prioritize environmental responsibility without sacrificing efficiency. Kheops: strengthening local supply chains Kheops connects local producers with large retailers through a digital platform. By streamlining sourcing, order management, and communication, it simplifies integrating locally produced goods into retail offerings. For producers, the platform opens access to larger markets. For retailers, it helps them meet the growing demand for local goods. Ultimately, this strengthens local economies and reduces supply chain environmental footprints. B4food: traceability and safety made simple B4Food ensures food safety and supply chain transparency through a platform powered by blockchain and AI. It simplifies the management of inventory, recipes, and compliance data for businesses. The platform’s eco-conscious features, such as real-time tracking and eco-scores, offer practical tools to improve operations. These innovations reduce waste while helping businesses stay compliant with food safety standards. Ida: AI-powered fresh stock management Ida uses artificial intelligence to simplify managing fresh produce in retail. By forecasting demand and optimizing inventory processes, the platform helps retailers minimize losses and reduce waste. Ida integrates seamlessly with central purchasing systems. This ensures fresh products are available when needed, without overstocking, making it ideal for large retailers. Freshflow: demand forecasting for fresh produce Freshflow uses demand forecasting technology to improve fresh inventory management. By analyzing sales trends and consumer behavior, the platform reduces overstocking and spoilage. Its ability to improve product availability while minimizing waste aligns with retailers’ need for efficiency. Freshflow supports sustainable food retail practices that address growing consumer expectations. Ugofresh: real-time supply chain optimization UgoFresh offers a real-time platform for managing ultra-fresh product supply chains. It connects suppliers, distributors, and retailers to enable seamless communication and better coordination. This focus on transparency and waste reduction makes UgoFresh a key player in optimizing perishable goods supply chains. By improving supply chain efficiency, it supports retailers in meeting the demand for fresh, high-quality products. These startups are tackling practical challenges in food retail, from reducing waste to improving supply chain efficiency. Their innovations show how technology can make food retail more effective and sustainable. To learn more about the future of food, subscribe to our FoodTech newsletter here for weekly insights from the industry !

Tech for Retail 2024 in Paris showcased groundbreaking food retail innovations, emphasizing how technologies like AI, data analytics, and in-store digitization are transforming physical stores, customer experiences, and omnichannel strategies. Sesamers explored how these advancements are shaping the future of food retail technology. Check out our latest article highlighting the best food retail startups spotted at Tech For Retail 2024 here. The return of the physical store in Food Retail innovation Digitization of physical stores In recent years, investments in retail digitization primarily focused on e-commerce and back-end processes, leaving physical stores behind. However, the next decade will see a significant shift as physical stores undergo a technological transformation. Why Now? Innovations like digitized store operations, connected retail, and data-driven commerce are enabling retailers to reimagine the role of physical stores. Food Retail media: the evolution of in-store advertising From posters to digital campaignsThe era of static in-store advertising is fading, giving way to dynamic digital solutions. Companies like Vision Group are pioneering these changes with tools like “Engage,” which enables retailers to: Retailers face the challenge of balancing modern digital tools with familiar elements to maintain a comfortable and engaging shopping environment. Artificial Intelligence: experimenting with potential AI continues to be a focal point, with retailers experimenting to identify the most impactful applications. The focus at Tech for Retail 2024 was on practical use cases, such as: Case study: Carrefour’s HoplaCarrefour introduced “Hopla,” an AI-powered chatbot built with OpenAI technology, to enhance the shopping experience: Hopla demonstrates how AI can combine practicality with consumer-centric features to build loyalty and efficiency. AI in product developmentIn 2023, Coca-Cola released “Year 3000” a product co-created with AI, showcasing its role in trend-driven product creation. Startups like Beink Dream, winners of the Tech for Retail Startup Award, leverage AI to transform ideas into visuals and refine them in real time. Their technology has been used in the CPG industry to create innovative packaging designs. Data: the foundation of modern retail Retailers are transforming into data powerhouses, but the emphasis is shifting from raw data to actionable insights: In an era of supply chain volatility and rising consumer expectations for efficiency, actionable data has become indispensable. Personalization and ROI-driven innovation Food retailers are not just seeking technology; they are demanding value-driven innovation that aligns with their operational needs. Innovation must go beyond flashy concepts—it needs to prove its relevance and impact. Conclusion Tech for Retail 2024 highlighted that the future of food retail is a fusion of technology, innovation, and consumer-centric strategies. Physical stores are reclaiming their importance as hubs of data, logistics, and consumer engagement. Entrepreneurs and retailers must focus on solutions that are cost-efficient, intuitive, and impactful for both businesses and consumers. Interested in learning more about the future of food ? Subscribe to our Foodtech newsletter for weekly insights !

Dutch healthtech startup OASYS NOW won the Slush 100 startup competition, and is on a mission to connect patients to better treatments.

How Tradition Shapes Our Taste Preferences One of the central ideas Mario shared was how deeply tradition and memory shape our taste preferences. “Even if you don’t want to talk about tradition as a good value, think of it as habit and memory,” Mario explains. Neuroscience in food innovation helps brands understand the ways our memories and traditions impact our preferences. This insight allows companies to develop products that resonate emotionally with consumers, creating more meaningful connections to their brands. Watch the full video podcast with Mario recorded at SIAL Paris on YouTube now: The Science of Sensory Memory in Food In the new podcast episode Mario highlighted how neuroscience can break down the elements of sensory memory, a critical factor in food innovation. He says, “We can put a number on how the brain interacts with food from a familiarity standpoint.” By understanding these responses, brands can identify which ingredients or flavors connect positively with consumers, and which might need adjustment to gain acceptance. This is the science behind creating memorable, repeatable food experiences that align with consumer habits. Using Neuroscience to Nudge Healthier Eating Changing eating habits is no easy feat, but neuroscience in food innovation can offer a solution. Mario shared how Thimus works with brands to use data-driven insights to gently encourage consumers toward healthier choices. “The idea of converting people to healthier food is valid, but they don’t change because it doesn’t taste good or click with them,” he notes. By aligning taste with emotional resonance, Thimus helps brands make healthier options more appealing, paving the way for better eating habits. Leveraging Nostalgia for Product Acceptance Mario introduced the concept of “food nostalgia,” where familiar aromas or flavors evoke memories, making new products feel more comfortable and enjoyable. “Sometimes food nostalgia is not about the product being good but the context it reminds people of,” Mario explains. For brands, understanding these cues is invaluable for creating products that feel like home and promote positive emotions, which are essential for product acceptance in new markets. The Future of Personalized Food Products Looking ahead, Mario envisions a future where food products are tailored more closely to specific cultures and preferences. “This industry is not yet designed to be flexible, but it will have to adapt,” he says. Advances in AI and neuroscience will enable brands to customize flavors and experiences for diverse consumers, meeting demands for cultural and sensory relevance. The goal is to create foods that people connect with naturally, ensuring that brands stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market. Find Mario on: LinkedIn: Mario Ubiali YouTube: @thimus8594 Find Ben on: LinkedIn: Ben Costantini Twitter/X: @bencostantini Be sure to follow Sesamers on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for more cool stories from the people we catch during the best Tech events!

In this episode, Claire Houry discusses venture capital strategies and investment trends in European B2B tech, covering her approach to building sustainable growth and supporting startups on the path to successful exits.

MAD – Make A Difference is a Swiss startup that lives up to its name. Founded in 2023, MAD brings a unique twist to the beverage industry with a focus on sustainable, purpose-driven drinks. Each of their products aligns with one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), partnering with NGOs to ensure their beverages make a positive impact. “We wanted to create delicious, healthier beverages that do more than just taste good — they drive real change,” shares the founder. With a simple but powerful mission to “Drink Good, Do Good,” MAD is setting a new standard in sustainable beverages. A name with purpose: why MAD stands out The name “MAD,” short for Make A Difference, reflects the brand’s commitment to a sustainable future. “We wanted a name that was short, memorable, and conveyed our mission directly,” explains the team. This straightforward and impactful name not only draws attention but also communicates MAD’s goal to drive change through everyday products. Their tagline, “Drink Good, Do Good,” aligns perfectly with their vision, inviting consumers to make a positive impact with each sip. Making sustainability easy with everyday beverages Beverages are a daily purchase for many, and MAD saw an opportunity to make sustainability part of people’s everyday routines. By connecting each product with a specific UN SDG, MAD ensures that every drink purchased supports a tangible cause, whether it’s clean water, education, or climate action. This approach makes it easy for consumers to support sustainability in their daily lives, empowering them to make a difference with minimal effort. A team with extensive beverage industry expertise MAD’s founders and team members bring impressive backgrounds in the beverage industry, with experience at renowned brands like Rivella, Red Bull, and the popular vitamin water brand Focus Water. This diverse expertise, united by a passion for sustainability and innovation, has been instrumental in MAD’s success, helping them build a brand that stands out in a competitive market. Targeting environmentally conscious consumers MAD’s products are designed for eco-conscious consumers, primarily aged 17-39, who value sustainability and quality. Their target audience includes health enthusiasts, young professionals, and socially responsible individuals living in urban areas. Standing out in a competitive market with purpose-driven products In an industry with major players like Vitamin Well and DASH Water, MAD sets itself apart with its clear focus on sustainability and impact. “While other brands focus on their products, our focus is on the impact we create,” the teams explains. MAD offers a variety of beverages, each linked to an SDG, which provides consumers with options that not only taste great but also contribute to global causes. Their goal is to cover all 17 SDGs, distinguishing MAD as a purpose-driven brand with a broad range of eco-friendly beverage options. Goals for 2024: expanding product lines and market reach MAD has ambitious goals for 2024, focusing on increasing market share across Europe and expanding its product line to support all 17 SDGs. Their target is to sell 500,000 products in their first full year, driven by the belief that the demand for eco-friendly, impact-driven beverages will only continue to grow.

In the world of sushi, KING Konjac is making a big splash. Based in Finland, this food tech startup has created a low-calorie sushi rice alternative made from konjac — a traditional Japanese root known for its high fiber and low-calorie properties. KING Konjac’s product offers a healthier, planet-friendly alternative that’s designed to appeal to sushi lovers and health-conscious consumers alike. “Our goal is to introduce something truly delicious, healthier, and more sustainable to the sushi industry,” says the founder, Sami Gauffin. Why KING Konjac chose a sushi rice alternative The team at KING Konjac saw an opportunity to make sushi healthier without compromising on flavor or quality. Traditional sushi rice, while delicious, can be high in calories and carbohydrates. KING Konjac’s solution? A low-calorie, high-fiber alternative that brings the nutritional benefits of konjac to sushi, creating a product that’s perfect for macro-conscious individuals, everyday sushi lovers, and those seeking a lighter option. “We wanted to address the growing demand for healthier food choices without sacrificing taste,” shares Sami. By replacing rice with a konjac-based ingredient, KING Konjac offers a unique way to enjoy sushi that’s both delicious and aligned with today’s wellness trends. The journey behind the name: why KING Konjac? Choosing the name “KING Konjac” was both strategic and symbolic. The word “king” emphasizes the premium quality of their product, while “konjac” highlights the unique ingredient at the heart of their innovation. “The name is a playful nod to ‘King Kong’ — just as King Kong was a giant in cinema, KING Konjac aims to be a giant in the sushi world,” explains the founder. This name choice is part of the startup’s intellectual property strategy, securing a strong brand identity that resonates with consumers and stakeholders. It’s a bold statement that reflects their commitment to creating the best, most innovative rice alternative for sushi. Innovating with Konjac: from noodles to sushi The idea for KING Konjac’s product came from the founder’s 10 years of experience working with konjac in the form of traditional shirataki noodles. Recognizing the versatility and health benefits of konjac, the team set out to bring this ingredient into the sushi industry. “We’ve seen how popular shirataki noodles are for their low-calorie, high-fiber properties,” the founder explains, “so we thought, why not bring that same benefit to sushi?” After a year and a half of intensive product development, they perfected a texture and taste that sushi lovers would appreciate, making konjac a viable and delicious replacement for sushi rice. The power of teamwork: expertise behind KING Konjac At KING Konjac, the team’s collective experience spans food technology, product development, and sustainability. The team includes two engineers, Touko and Mirza, who collaborated with Sami on a previous venture, and Make-San, known as “Finland’s Sushi Emperor” for his expertise in Japanese sushi and ingredients. “Make-San has been importing authentic Japanese sushi rice and ingredients for years and employs Japanese sushi chefs,” Sami Gauffin says. Sustainable, planet-friendly ingredients for a new era of sushi One of the key drivers behind KING Konjac’s low-calorie sushi rice alternative is sustainability. Traditional rice production can have significant environmental impacts, including high water usage and greenhouse gas emissions. Konjac, on the other hand, is a more eco-friendly crop with a lower environmental footprint. Meeting the demand for healthier and macro-friendly options Today’s consumers are increasingly health-conscious, and KING Konjac’s product fits perfectly into this trend. The konjac-based rice alternative is low in calories, high in fiber, and ideal for a variety of diets, from low-carb to gluten-free. “Our product appeals to macro-conscious individuals and those who simply want to enjoy sushi without the added calories,” the founder shares. This focus on health and wellness makes KING Konjac an attractive option not just for sushi lovers, but also for those who are looking to maintain a balanced diet. A perfect fit for the sushi industry and beyond KING Konjac’s target audience includes sushi restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and catering services, as well as health-conscious individuals. Their product’s ability to maintain quality at room temperature makes it suitable for a range of businesses looking to offer fresh, high-quality sushi options. “We want to reach anyone who loves sushi and cares about their health and the planet,” says the founder. In addition to direct sales to sushi restaurants and retailers, KING Konjac has plans to license their patented production technology, enabling even broader distribution of their product. Want to stay ahead in the event industry? Follow Sesamers on LinkedIn and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest insights, tips, and event news.

Fungu’it is leading a new approach to sustainable food ingredients by transforming plant-based by-products through innovative fungal fermentation. The startup is focused on producing high-value, natural flavors that improve both the taste and nutritional value of food products while reducing waste. “We’re committed to making industrial food production healthier and more eco-friendly,” shares Fungu’it’s CEO, Anas Erridaoui. By using fungi’s natural abilities, Fungu’it offers food manufacturers a sustainable and cost-effective way to enhance their products. From By-Products to High-Value Ingredients with Fungal Fermentation At Fungu’it, the magic lies in their unique use of fungal fermentation. The process involves upcycling agricultural by-products, like faba beans, into aromatic ingredients through a resource-efficient method called solid-state fermentation. “Our technology allows us to turn plant-based by-products into flavors that enhance food without artificial additives,” explains CTO Jeanne Baudevin. This fermentation method is especially valuable for plant-based meats, where Fungu’it’s ingredients can replace 80% of added flavors and reduce salt content by 50%. A Natural Solution for Sustainable Food Ingredients Fungu’it’s sustainable ingredients have found an enthusiastic audience in the plant-based meat industry, where manufacturers look for natural ways to enhance flavor and texture. “Our target includes leaders like Beyond Meat and French innovators like HappyVore, who aim to improve their products’ taste profiles without synthetic additives,” Anas shares. With ingredients that create robust, savory flavors, Fungu’it provides a healthier alternative that helps companies meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers seeking natural food options. Expanding into Cocoa Alternatives Fungu’it is also creating sustainable alternatives for cocoa products, providing manufacturers with solutions to address supply chain risks in cocoa farming, like climate change and labor issues. “By offering a reliable, cost-effective alternative to cocoa, we support companies in creating ethical and sustainable products,” notes COO Cyrille Viossat. Fungu’it’s approach not only meets consumer demand for ethical ingredients but also offers food producers a versatile, sustainable option for chocolates, cocoa powder, and baked goods. Stay ahead in the event industry! Follow Sesamers on LinkedIn and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest insights, tips, and event news.

Argotier Cocktails is changing the ready-to-drink cocktail market with their premium, eco-friendly ready-to-drink cocktails designed for the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) sector. This French startup prides itself on controlling the entire production chain, ensuring they stay true to their values of eco-responsibility, local sourcing, and high-quality ingredients. “We believe in offering eco-friendly cocktails that blend originality with practicality,” says co-founder Luca Pandolfo. By catering to both the hospitality industry and fine grocery shops, Argotier is bringing quality cocktails to professionals seeking efficient, sustainable solutions. A Unique Name and Brand Vision The name “Argotier” comes from French slang, which embodies the brand’s playful and approachable spirit. “We wanted a name that would resonate with our audience, demystifying the often ‘cold’ luxury cocktail codes,” explains Luca. Argotier’s cocktail names and branding draw from slang terms, creating a brand identity that is friendly, accessible, and distinct. This fresh perspective helps Argotier stand out in a market that can sometimes feel overly polished, making their cocktails approachable for both consumers and industry professionals. High-Quality Ingredients and Original Recipes Argotier’s eco-friendly ready-to-drink cocktails are crafted using only the best ingredients, with recipes designed by Luca, who has years of experience in mixology. “Our cocktails prioritize clarity and taste, ensuring that every sip is enjoyable,” says Luca. The team focuses on creating unique, original recipes that appeal to HoReCa professionals and their customers alike. The dedication to quality, eco-responsible sourcing, allows Argotier to offer a reliable product with high standards of today’s market. Simplifying Service for the Hospitality and Event Sectors Argotier’s ready-to-drink cocktails are a game-changer for the hospitality industry, particularly for restaurants and event planners. It can simplify service without sacrificing quality. With Argotier, staff can serve premium cocktails quickly and efficiently, minimizing the need for complex preparation. “We provide a solution that’s easy to implement, helping with everything from storage to service,” shares Luca. This approach to cocktail service has made Argotier a go-to choice for HoReCa. Expanding Nationally and Internationally After Success at SIAL Paris Argotier’s participation in SIAL Paris has been a huge step in their growth journey. It provided them with visibility and networking opportunities that support their goal of national and international expansion.  If you missed SIAL Paris 2024, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! Check up our socials Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn to catch up on the recorded live streams and collected insights. Don’t miss out!

Data privacy has become a critical issue in the digital age, and Zama is at the forefront with its innovative homomorphic encryption solutions. Co-founded by Pascal Paillier and Rand Hindi in 2020, the company aims to protect sensitive data through Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE), a groundbreaking technology that allows computations on encrypted data without exposure. As businesses and industries navigate increasing privacy concerns, Zama’s encryption solutions transform data usage in sectors like artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, healthcare, and finance. A Visionary Start in Data Privacy The inspiration behind Zama arose from the urgent need to balance data privacy with functionality in an increasingly data-driven world. “Zama was born out of a desire to solve the paradox of enabling secure data usage without compromising privacy,” shares Jeremy Bradley, Zama’s COO. This vision has evolved from a research-focused concept to a fully accessible and user-friendly encryption platform, making significant strides in deploying advanced cryptographic solutions that promise to revolutionize industries reliant on big data. The Core Technology: Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) At the heart of Zama’s innovation lies homomorphic encryption, a transformative advancement in the encryption landscape. Traditional encryption methods require data to be decrypted for processing, which exposes it to security risks. “FHE allows data to remain encrypted during computations,” explains Bradley. This capability is vital for sectors such as healthcare and finance, where secure data processing is paramount. Their technology ensures privacy while maintaining high performance, providing practical solutions to real-world challenges. “We’ve optimized our cryptographic algorithms to ensure our solutions are both secure and efficient,” Bradley notes. Zama’s Competitive Edge in Encryption What sets Zama apart from other encryption providers is its commitment to usability and performance. While many competitors focus on theoretical advancements, Zama is dedicated to making homomorphic encryption accessible to developers without requiring extensive cryptographic knowledge. “We emphasize open-source tools, making our technology widely available for innovation and collaboration,” Bradley states. This approach cultivates a community-driven ecosystem where privacy-preserving applications can flourish. Overcoming Challenges in Cryptographic Solutions Developing cryptographic solutions presents numerous challenges, and Zama has faced its share. “Balancing security with performance has been one of our biggest challenges,” admits Bradley. FHE is inherently computationally intensive, but the company has made significant strides in refining the technology to ensure it’s practical for everyday use. Collaborations with the cryptographic research community have been essential in overcoming these challenges and pushing the possible boundaries. Expanding Impact Across Industries and Use Cases Zama envisions a future where FHE is a foundational technology across various sectors. In finance, FHE enables secure data analysis without exposing sensitive information. In healthcare, it allows patient data to be processed securely while adhering to privacy regulations. Governments can also benefit from FHE, ensuring secure data sharing across departments. “We see homomorphic encryption as the bedrock of privacy-preserving innovation,” Bradley emphasizes, highlighting their long-term vision. Zama’s Flagship Product: Concrete In its mission to democratize homomorphic encryption, Zama recently launched Concrete. This is an open-source encryption library designed for efficiency and ease of use. “Concrete allows developers to integrate FHE into their applications without needing to be cryptography experts,” says Bradley. The product will significantly impact the industry by enabling more developers to create secure, privacy-preserving applications. Looking Ahead: Zama’s Strategic Goals Looking to the future, Zama’s strategic goals are clear: to expand the adoption of homomorphic encryption across industries and continue optimizing its solutions. “We’re focused on building a robust ecosystem of developers and partners around our open-source tools,” Bradley shares. By fostering innovation and staying at the forefront of encryption research, Zama is positioned to shape the future of data privacy. Zama’s journey exemplifies the power of visionary leadership and groundbreaking technology. With a focus on practicality, performance, and privacy, Zama is setting new standards for encryption in the digital age. “We’re committed to protecting privacy without compromising functionality,” Bradley emphasizes — a promise that solidifies Zama’s status as a leader in secure data processing.

Food Ingredients Europe is just one week away in Frankfurt, and it promises to be a significant event for both F&B professionals and innovative startups in the food ingredients sector. We spoke with Yannick Verry, Brand Director of Food Ingredients, to preview what makes this event unique and what attendees can expect. What sets Food Ingredients Europe apart from other global food and nutrition innovation events? Fi Europe is unique as Europe’s premier event dedicated exclusively to food ingredients. It is part of a global series with ten Fi events across the world. As the flagship event in Europe, it draws leading industry players and top experts. The event highlights the critical role of the ingredient supply chain—a pivotal stage between raw production and manufacturing—where much of a product’s nutritional value is developed. What emerging trends in food ingredients can attendees look forward to exploring? While many trends reveal themselves on-site, several key themes are expected to shape this year’s event: How do new spaces like the expanded Food Technology area and the Petfood Suppliers Hub address industry demands? How will the new Tasting Bar enhance engagement between exhibitors and attendees? The Tasting Bar brings an interactive experience to Fi Europe. As an ingredient show, it can be hard for attendees to imagine the taste an ingredient can deliver. By sampling finished products that feature these ingredients, buyers get a clearer sense of their flavour and potential applications. Are there any standout projects or breakthrough innovations to watch for? Fi Europe brings innovation from all sides, with both big corporations and smaller companies unveiling groundbreaking concepts. Products launched at the event often reach shelves within 3 to 4 years, positioning Fi Europe as essential for exploring food’s future. What role does Fi Europe play in fostering industry partnerships and opportunities? Fi Europe is a key meeting point for the industry, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, startups, and organisations to foster collaborations. Key areas like country pavilions and specialised commodity sectors offer targeted networking opportunities. In addition, platforms such as EIT Food Accelerator give startups valuable exposure, helping to strengthen the overall food innovation ecosystem. What’s in store for startups at FI this year ? This year, the Fi Europe Startup Challenge will showcase 20 finalists competing in categories such as plant-based solutions or digital services. The winners will be revealed on Tuesday. The competition offers startups valuable exposure, networking with industry leaders, and the chance to connect with potential partners. It helps them accelerate their growth in the food and beverages sector. For a great overview of the competition check out the 2024 Fi Europe Startup Challenge eMag. Additionally, you can find out who the finalists are this year here. How is Food Ingredients Europe working toward sustainability and environmental responsibility? Fi Europe has taken several steps toward sustainability, including: Environmental Initiatives: Social Initiatives: If you are a startup exhibiting at a Food trade show soon, check out our top tips here to make the most of your experience !

By focusing on founder-market fit, SaaS growth, climate investments, ESG principles, and supporting indie makers, Tim Schumacher demonstrates a balanced approach to business that prioritizes both growth and impact. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale responsibly and with purpose.