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Building a sustainable future of food with Beatriz Jacoste from KM ZERO

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Beatriz Jacoste, director of KM ZERO Food Innovation Hub, a Valencia-based organization, is on a mission to transform the way we think about food. In this episode, we explored her journey, her vision for a sustainable future of food, and the steps we can take to get there. The full episode is available on YouTube: Driven by Impact Having originally studied diplomacy, Beatriz discovered her interest in the food sector while volunteering at a food bank. As she put it, “Food is the most important and impactful sector in the world.” Building a Community of Food Heroes KM ZERO is more than a think tank; it’s a global hub for food change-makers. The community includes scientists, farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors, all united to create systems that deliver tasty and sustainable food without depleting our planet’s resources. “We believe they are saving the world through food,” Beatriz said. Innovative Trends Shaping the Future Beatriz highlighted cutting-edge trends including molecular farming, which could allow proteins to be grown directly in bananas. She also emphasized the importance of “less sexy” innovations like soil regeneration. “We’ve lost 40% of nutrients in the last 30 years. Technologies that help recover soil health excite me the most,” she noted. Educating the Next Generation KM ZERO’s Gastro Genius program engages children with food-related challenges to educate them on sustainable nutrition and inspire them to become change-makers. According to Beatriz, this is essential for driving long-term change: “If we don’t work with civil society, innovations won’t stick.” Events as Catalysts for Collaboration From summits like f_talks to initiatives in Latin America, KM ZERO leverages events to bring stakeholders together, bridging gaps between startups, corporates, and policymakers. Beatriz believes these gatherings are essential: “We don’t just want to inspire; we want to influence.” Find Beatriz on: LinkedIn: Beatriz Jacoste Lozano Twitter/X: @BeatrizJacoste Find Ben on: LinkedIn: Ben Costantini Twitter/X: @bencostantini — Be sure to follow Sesamers onInstagram, LinkedIn, and X for more cool stories from the people we catch during the best Tech events!

5 Key Insights into Food Tech Investment Trends

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In this episode, Nadav Berger of PeakBridge Ventures shares insights into food tech investment trends, the evolution of alternative proteins, and how startups and investors can collaborate to drive meaningful change in the food industry.

Alternative Proteins: Innovations and Challenges

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In this episode, Sirli Rosenvald shares her insights into the evolving field of alternative proteins, highlighting innovations in mycoproteins, challenges in scaling production, and the role of global markets in shaping FoodTech.

Unlocking the Power of Neuroscience in Food

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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!

Sustainable Packaging discovered at ALL4PACK 2024

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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 : a growing opportunity

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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.

Top Tips for Food Trade Show Success: Insights from SIAL Paris 2024 Startup Exhibitors

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If you’re considering exhibiting at a future trade show, the insights shared by exhibitors at SIAL Paris 2024 can be incredibly valuable. They offer their advice based on their overall experiences as exhibitors and during their pitch sessions in front of a jury.  Here are some key takeaways to help you maximize your experience: Torg: Plan ahead Start your planning well in advance. Create a to-do list and a timeline based on insights from previous events to streamline your preparation. Avoid relying too heavily on external logistics, as managing these can be challenging if you’re not experienced. Ensure that everything is organized and in place to meet your needs. Pitching tips: Keep your pitch short and focused. If you have multiple products or topics, concentrate on one and explore it in-depth within 90 seconds. Use minimal text in your presentations. This helps maintain the audience’s attention on your message rather than distracting them with written content. Lebrin Cbd: Be spontaneous Balance preparation with spontaneity. While practicing your pitch is important, over-rehearsing can create unnecessary pressure and dissatisfaction. Allow yourself to connect more genuinely with your audience by going with the flow during your presentation. VgFryer: Stay proactive Engage actively with attendees and maintain communication with your contacts even after the event. Being persistent and keeping an optimistic outlook can help you foster lasting connections that extend beyond the trade show. Freshjt: Engage through experience Let your products speak for themselves by allowing visitors to sample them before explaining their features. This approach keeps attendees engaged and encourages interaction. Remember that trade shows are about sharing experiences and discovering market opportunities, not just selling products. Networking tips: Create a list of key exhibitors that match your target customer profile to visit during your free hours at the exhibition. While some exhibitors may not have their purchasing or business development managers present, their sales representatives can provide valuable contact information for future connections. Pitching tips: Bring your products to your pitch. If possible, allow attendees in the front rows to try them out to enhance engagement. Avoid technical jargon and focus on key values such as innovation and unique production technology. Most attendees may not fully grasp complex information in just 1-2 minutes. Credits : Biz Today If you’re planning to attend a Food trade show, don’t miss our latest article on maximizing your ROI at these industry gatherings !

Must-see startups at MIF Expo 2024: a guide to the future of Food & Beverage trends

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Heading to MIF(Made in France) Expo next week, November 10-13th, Paris Porte de Versailles – and looking to dive straight into the trends defining the future of food & beverages? Streamline your visit with this curated list of must-see startups:  Food Plant-based alternatives Functional foods Spicy products Anti-waste Socially-engaged foods Low-glycemic index options Better-for-you spreads Drinks Pre- and probiotic drinks Botanical drinks Solid drinks Responsible wine If you’re interested in a more tailored startup itinerary focused on specific topics or sub-trends with additional startup recommendations, feel free to reach out! I’m actively sourcing startups and can quickly create a custom plan for you. Just contact me at sandra@sesamers.com. 

Inside World Summit AI 2024: Highlights from the Frontlines of AI Innovation

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Returning to Amsterdam for its eighth edition, the World Summit AI opened this year with another awe-inspiring, eye-opening welcome video. Exciting music boomed across the hall as a variety of famous film clips addressing AI flashed across the large stage screens. The video culminated with a clip of Sam Altman delivering his now-iconic response to the potential dangers and threats posed by technology developed by OpenAI, a topic first addressed in February last year. The Spectacular Opening of World Summit AI 2024 “My worst fears are that we cause significant harm to the world […] and that could happen in a lot of different ways […] I think if this technology goes wrong, it could go quite wrong. But we try to be quite clear-eyed about what the downside case is and what the work is that we have to do to mitigate that.” — Sam Altman This blend of both wonder and alarm set the tone for the two-day event, where thought leaders from around the globe gathered to discuss industry developments in Generative AI. After a strong opening by Sarah Porter, founder of Inspired Minds, the headliner ‘Black Box’ stage featured talks from some of the most notable and relevant industry players today. Mark Heaps, Groq’s Chief Tech Evangelist and VP of Brand, spoke on the potential of LPUs (Language Processing Units), Darren Hardman, Microsoft’s Corporate VP of Enterprise & Industry, addressed business transformation in the AI era, and PepsiCo’s Executive VP of Strategy & Transformation, Dr. Athina Kanioura, shared her perspective on how robotics will transform the consumer packaged goods industry — just to name a few. Industry Leaders Share AI Innovations and Insights The event boasted a packed schedule, with multiple talks, panels, fireside chats, and workshops running in parallel. This year, participants could choose from over ten unique topic tracks across both days, tailoring their experience to the most relevant content. Tracks covered a wide range of subjects, from Humani-AI Convergence, exploring questions like what it means to be human in the age of AI and safeguarding fundamental human rights, to deep dives into Generative AI & LLMs, Money AI, Responsible AI & Governance, and Intelligent Health. Other key tracks, such as Economy, Employment & Equity, explored potential new economic models. On day two, the focus shifted to Accelerating AI Adoption, Deep Dive Tech Talks, Managing Cybersecurity, Privacy & Risk, and AI for Good. Key Tracks: Exploring AI’s Role Across Industries Two new tracks grabbed significant attention this year. The Mediaverse track explored maximizing gaming content relevancy through automation and how AI is bringing marketing to life by creating ‘sentient brands.’ Janina Lorenci, founder of MAIA Art Agency, addressed how AI is challenging our traditional notions of originality and the artist’s integrity. Lorenci, leaving the crows with her quote of “A paintbrush is not biased, AI is”, also hosted a stunning gallery exhibition promoting the collaboration between local Amsterdam creatives and AI tools. A key takeaway from this track was that while AI is pushing the boundaries of art and creativity, ethical considerations must guide its application in these areas. Additionally, the “Moonshot Mothership” track focused on AI and space exploration. Alicia Kavelaars, Co-Founder and CTO of OffWorld, delivered a keynote speech on AI and the new space age, inspiring the audience with a vision of how AI will turn science fiction into reality through its critical contribution to creating autonomous robotic workforces capable of working in extreme environments, such as underground mines or space, with minimal human intervention. Ethical AI and the Road to Global Regulation A clear message from this year’s World Summit AI was the growing emphasis on ethical AI and responsible development. Jeannette Gorzala, CEO & Founder of Act.AI.Now, stressed her concern that Europe’s attention towards the prevalent rise in cybercrime and malicious acts with AI has faded as the topic of the EU’s AI Act dragged on this year. Similarly, in a headline talk on the threats posed by AI by Section Chief in the Science & Technology branch of the FBI, Katie Noyes, an uncomfortable crowd sat, confronted, by the concerning rise in abusive and exploitative content created by genAI.  A related headliner panel on this topic, with experts across industry and academia, addressed the question of if a global consensus on AI regulation will ever be reached. The key takeaway was that while global AI regulation may be difficult to achieve in the short term, region-specific regulatory frameworks can be a stepping stone toward a broader consensus on AI safety. The first two days of World Summit AI 2024 showcased how deeply AI is influencing every facet of our lives. From transforming business models to redefining creative industries, the event highlighted that AI’s potential is vast, but so are the responsibilities that come with it. Whether through enhancing cybersecurity or pushing the limits of space exploration, AI is becoming the driving force behind human and organizational evolution. The challenge ahead is clear: businesses and leaders must embrace AI not only for automation but as a tool that amplifies human creativity and innovation. Core Takeaways from the Event What about the Startup Scene? As always, Sesamers had their eyes on all things startup at the event, especially in the Startups, Scaleups, & Unicorns track. The WSAI startup cohort doubled in size this year, moving to a larger, dedicated floor space with over 30 startups in attendance. The City of Amsterdam continued to impress, showcasing the creativity and quality of its startup scene. Startups pitching ranged across industries, from EdTech with Digital Bricks and GreenTech from Antfarm, to creative city planning from Playground City, and Swipework, a Gen Z-targeted job recruiting platform. Curious for more? Check out our article on the Amsterdam startup scene here.

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