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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.

Innovating Plant-Based Food Ingredients with C&DAC C&DAC, a French-based food tech company, is at the forefront of plant-based food ingredients innovation. Specializing in food formulation, C&DAC assists food industries in developing, characterizing, and scaling up new food products, offering expertise across multiple sectors from dairy alternatives to meat substitutes. “Our goal is to help the food industry offer more sustainable and healthier products,” explains the team. By providing tailored food development services and creating their own ingredient line, Puls’Eat, C&DAC is making plant-based food solutions more accessible for companies worldwide. Introducing Puls’Eat: Fermented Faba Bean Ingredients One of C&DAC’s standout innovations is their Puls’Eat line — an ingredient range made from fermented faba beans designed to enhance the taste, texture, and nutrition of plant-based products. “Puls’Eat allows food industries to develop tasty and nutritious plant-based foods,” the team shares. These versatile ingredients are suitable for a variety of applications, including dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, and baked goods, providing a powerful tool for food companies seeking natural, high-quality ingredients. Expertise in Food Formulation and Scale-Up C&DAC’s team is uniquely skilled in food formulation and scale-up, with each member specializing in areas like fermentation, business development, and food process engineering. This diverse expertise allows them to offer comprehensive food development services to their clients. “Each member of the team has their specialty, making us well-equipped to handle different food processes,” says the C&DAC team. By combining their knowledge and skills, they help companies take their product ideas from initial concept to full-scale production, ensuring quality and consistency along the way. Supporting Sustainable and Healthier Solutions with Plant-Based Food Ingredients The driving force behind C&DAC’s work is a commitment to sustainability and health. Recognizing the increasing demand for healthier, plant-based alternatives, C&DAC works closely with food industries to create products that align with modern consumers’ values. “We’re passionate about helping the food industry make products that are better for people and the planet,” the team shares. Their work with sustainable ingredients and clean-label formulations has made C&DAC a trusted partner for brands looking to meet the needs of today’s eco-conscious consumers. Expanding Business Opportunities through SIAL Paris Participating in SIAL Paris has opened new doors for C&DAC, offering exposure to potential clients and partners interested in their Puls’Eat ingredients. “SIAL is an incredible platform to grow our business,” they say. By showcasing their unique offerings at this global food innovation event, C&DAC has gained valuable connections that will aid in their mission to expand their reach in the plant-based ingredient market. The team expects their presence at SIAL to strengthen their business development efforts, particularly for Puls’Eat as they enter new markets.

A Game-Changer in Plant-Based Egg Alternatives Le Papondu is taking plant-based food innovation to new heights with its plant-based egg alternative, crafted to replace traditional eggs in both savory and sweet recipes. This French startup uses a simple and nutritious recipe to capture the taste and texture of eggs, without any of the allergens or animal products. “We’re the first French brand to offer an egg-free solution that lets you make omelets and recipes without breaking eggs,” explains Sheryline Thavisouk, co-founder and CEO. This product is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier, animal-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or functionality. The Story Behind Le Papondu: A Unique Vision Le Papondu, which translates to “the unlaid egg,” reflects the founders’ vision for an egg that doesn’t come from hens. The idea came to life as founders Philippine Soulères Albrand and Sheryline Thavisouk, both engineers with a background in food product development, noticed a growing demand for egg substitutes due to health concerns, sustainability, and animal welfare. “Eggs are so common in our everyday cuisine, but we saw an opportunity to create something better for people’s health and the environment,” says Philippine. Their shared passion for innovation and healthy living drives Le Papondu’s mission to provide a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional eggs. Health-Conscious and Simple Ingredients One of the standout features of Le Papondu’s plant-based egg alternative is its simplicity. The brand’s formula contains half the number of ingredients found in competing products, all of which are natural, allergen-free, and rich in nutrients. “We focused on a short ingredient list to prioritize health,” Sheryline notes, “making our product high in protein, fiber, and lower in calories than a regular egg.” This commitment to simple, nutritious ingredients makes Le Papondu a top choice for health-conscious consumers and those seeking clean-label products. Building Momentum and Achievements Since its launch in 2022, Le Papondu has gained remarkable traction. In just a year, the company has sold the equivalent of 120,000 eggs, collaborated with over 50 restaurants, and secured partnerships with wholesalers and vegan stores. Le Papondu has also received widespread media coverage and accolades, including the IdFood 2022 award for innovation and nutrition, and the CES Greenlight Award for sustainable innovation. Their participation in SIAL Paris provided further visibility, helping the brand connect with potential partners and investors. “SIAL was an invaluable platform for us to showcase our product and build essential connections,” Sheryline shares. Aiming High: Future Goals for Plant-Based Eggs Alternative Looking to the future, Le Papondu has ambitious plans for 2024, with a focus on international expansion and scaling production. Their goals include securing preseed funding, hiring their first recruits, and finding partners for export to make their plant-based egg alternative available globally by 2025. “We want to bring Le Papondu to the world and make it accessible to everyone who wants a diet that respects their health and values,” says Sheryline. With the alt-egg market expected to grow significantly, Le Papondu is poised to be a key player in the plant-based movement. SIAL Paris: Highlights and What You Missed The SIAL Paris trade show proved to be a fantastic opportunity for Le Papondu and other innovative food startups. If you missed it, you can catch highlights and behind-the-scenes footage on our Sesamers YouTube and LinkedIn channels. The event was filled with inspiring pitches, innovative solutions, and a vibrant atmosphere — don’t miss out on the future of food innovation!

ALCHEMICO is changing a shift in the beverage industry with its range of natural tonic waters and mixers. Based in Romania, this brand combines organic ingredients, refined flavors, and a philosophy rooted in elegance. As the team shares, “ALCHEMICO is more than a drink; it’s a cultural anchor, a new standard of excellence.” Their 10 flavored waters and soda mixers provide a sophisticated, refreshing alternative to traditional beverages, setting the stage for a new, responsible culture of indulgence. Crafting a Brand Around Alchemy and Authenticity The name ALCHEMICO reflects the brand’s mission to transform the drinking experience by blending science, nature, and cultural roots. As the founders explain, “Alchemy is at the crossroads of what we do — circularity, curiosity, and innovation.” Each drink is crafted with carefully chosen ingredients and an emphasis on authenticity, appealing to individuals and businesses alike who prioritize health, sustainability, and exceptional quality in their beverage choices. By creating products that evoke curiosity and balance, ALCHEMICO has built a brand that’s both rooted in tradition and pushing the boundaries of beverage innovation. A Commitment to Pure Ingredients and Sustainability in Natural Tonic Waters In a market where sugar and artificial flavors dominate, ALCHEMICO stands out by using bio agave syrup and natural extracts for their mixers and tonic waters. “We’re introducing a new category in beverage mixology,” the founders share, “with our focus on extracts and natural ingredients as game changers.” By choosing only the finest ingredients, ALCHEMICO provides drinks that are as healthy as they are flavorful. This commitment has helped the brand quickly gain traction and differentiate itself from mainstream tonic water and soda mixer producers. Breaking into the International Market With New Natural Tonic Waters ALCHEMICO’s recent participation at SIAL Paris has brought significant benefits, allowing them to connect with potential partners and showcase their products on a global stage. “SIAL was the perfect venue for us to meet the right collaborators,” the founders mention. They see this exposure as essential for their ambitious 2024 goals, which include expanding into Michelin Star restaurants across Europe and entering markets in Asia and America. The opportunity to network with international players at SIAL has set ALCHEMICO on a path to worldwide growth, strengthening their mission to redefine beverage culture. Alchemico’s Vision for the Future For ALCHEMICO, the journey is about more than just sales. The brand’s founders have a clear, uncompromising vision to establish a new standard in non-alcoholic beverages. Their philosophy, “truth is enough,” speaks to the brand’s dedication to honesty, refinement, and innovation. They are committed to expanding their offerings and innovating further, driven by the question, “What can we create next?” This curiosity and ambition promise a bright future for ALCHEMICO as they continue to redefine what it means to indulge responsibly. 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.

FJT is changing the tea industry with its unique fresh juice-infused tea blends, a bold innovation that infuses tea leaves directly with fresh fruit juices. Unlike traditional fruit-flavored teas that only hint at fruit aromas, FJT’s JuicyTea delivers an authentic burst of real fruit flavor in every sip. “We wanted to go beyond just the aroma,” shares the team. “Our process soaks tea leaves in fresh juices, making sure that every cup tastes as vibrant as the fruit itself.” This distinct approach has quickly set FJT apart in a crowded market. A Commitment to Freshness and Quality To make one ton of JuicyTea, FJT uses ten tons of fresh fruit, showing the brand’s dedication to quality. The entire production process, from collecting to packaging, is completed within 24 hours to maintain optimal freshness. “Our facility in Vietnam is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and adheres to strict quality control standards,” says the team. This rapid, high-quality production ensures that FJT’s fresh juice teas are flavorful, natural, and free from artificial additives, appealing to health-conscious consumers around the world. Blending Innovation and Sustainability Sustainability is central to FJT’s mission. By using only natural ingredients and leveraging Vietnam’s abundant agricultural resources, FJT minimizes waste and maximizes the use of high-quality local produce. “Vietnam provides the perfect climate for both tea and fresh fruits,” the team explains, “allowing us to source our ingredients responsibly and sustainably.” FJT’s commitment to using fresh fruits and premium tea leaves not only enhances the flavor but also promotes a more sustainable production process that resonates with today’s environmentally aware consumers. A Vision for Wellness and Accessibility Through Fresh Juice-Infused Tea FJT’s mission extends beyond just offering a delicious beverage. The brand aims to enhance people’s lives by promoting wellness through accessible, high-quality products. “We wanted to create a tea that offers real health benefits without sacrificing flavor,” says the team. By infusing tea with real fruit juices, FJT provides a natural source of vitamins and antioxidants, appealing to health food enthusiasts and functional food lovers alike. This dedication to wellness and innovation is what drives the brand’s ambitious goals for the future. Want to stay ahead in the tech industry? Follow Sesamers on LinkedIn and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest insights, tips, and event news.

Sesamers attended the ALL4PACK event in Paris, where we explored cutting-edge solutions transforming the packaging industry. From eco-friendly materials to advanced digital tools, these startups are reshaping packaging for the F&B sector and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the innovative companies we met. Proper Packaging (Eco-Friendly Materials and Processes) Reusable and Circular Packaging Solutions Digital Tools for Packaging and Delivery Efficiency Authentication and Brand Protection Boost Your Startup’s Visibility Are you a startup in the packaging industry with a sustainable or innovative solution? List your startup here to increase visibility among key players in F&B and packaging sectors. We might also feature your startup in one of our articles !

Italy’s plant-based market is booming, with consumer demand for sustainable, plant-based foods driving record growth. In 2023, retail sales reached €641 million, reflecting a significant 16.1% increase since 2021. Felippe Fontanelli has been aggregating these observations into a report that showcases the trends highlighting Italy’s growth potential. This insightful report is available for free download here. Meet the Author Felippe Fontanelli is the founder of the Virtuous Food Revolution Alliance and has worked with innovative startups like Wicked Foods and Future Farm. With nearly two decades in the FMCG industry, he has established a strong network across Italy, Spain, and Portugal, positioning him to provide valuable insights into the evolving plant-based market.  Key Insights from the Report Market Growth Italy’s plant-based market is thriving, with sales reaching €641 million in 2023. Plant-based meat and milk dominate, accounting for 49% and 31% of total sales, respectively. The cheese segment has also seen substantial growth, with a 77% increase in sales volume from 2021 to 2023. Demographic Shifts Young Italians are leading the plant-based movement, with 82% adopting more sustainable diets for health and environmental reasons. This generational shift, coupled with a strong preference for sustainability—66% of Italians prioritize it when purchasing food—positions Italy to compete with established markets like Germany and the UK. Out-of-Home Expansion The out-of-home food sector in Italy, valued at €80.8 billion in 2023, is gradually embracing plant-based options. Major players like Autogrill and Eataly are expanding their plant-based offerings, driven by a growing consumer demand for healthier dining choices. Companies such as Compass Group are focusing on sustainable sourcing, particularly in university dining, which opens up further opportunities for plant-based brands. Regulatory Challenges Despite its growth potential, the Italian plant-based market faces challenges, including regulatory hurdles influenced by meat lobbies. Recent regulations restrict cultivated meat production and limit plant-based products from using meat-related terms. However, public sentiment shows strong support for reducing meat consumption as a means to combat climate change. Partnerships and Collaboration Collaborations between traditional food producers and plant-based brands are vital for expanding options in Italy. By integrating plant-based alternatives into classic dishes, companies can build consumer trust while promoting sustainability. Successful partnerships, such as Planted with Artico for ready meals and Stupiscimi for snacks, demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach. Retail Opportunities While large chains like Aldi and Carrefour are expanding their plant-based offerings, smaller retailers lag behind. There’s a significant opportunity for Italian retailers to collaborate with startups, dedicate special sections for plant-based products, and focus on sustainability to capture this growing market. Local Innovation Italy’s culinary heritage provides a strong foundation for innovation. Local giants like Nestlé and Granarolo are adapting to meet rising consumer demand, while startups like Heaven and DreamFarm are creating products that honor Italy’s food culture while embracing sustainability. This report paints a compelling picture of Italy’s potential as a leader in the plant-based sector. For those looking to explore the findings in greater detail, the full report is accessible for free and can be downloaded here.

Knittable, a startup that unlocks the creativity of knitters, won the regional final of the New Nordics Pitch Competition in Reykjavik during Iceland Innovation Week and will represent its country in the grand final taking place during Slush 2024.