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Circularity in Action: Showcasing Game-Changing FoodTech Initiatives

The concept of the circular economy stands at the forefront of sustainability, with a mission to curb waste and optimize the use of existing resources. It’s about “closing the loop” on various elements, like products, services, waste, materials, water, and energy. Unlike the linear economy, the circular economy introduces a nonlinear model that champions reuse, recycling, and regeneration. This innovative approach aims to slash waste generation and alleviate the strain on our natural resources. The circular economy isn’t just about bolstering environmental sustainability; it’s a catalyst for economic efficiency by sparking business opportunities around product revaluation and responsible resource management.

In the food sector, the circular economy translates into cutting down food waste across the entire chain, from production to consumption. It encourages repurposing byproducts and transforming waste into valuable resources, such as creating compost or harnessing energy. Local production models and regenerative agriculture take the spotlight to shrink our environmental footprint. Additionally, the sale of imperfect or soon-to-expire foods is promoted, combating premature disposal. In this paradigm, consumers become key players, making informed choices to minimize waste within their homes.

 

The Shift to Circularity – Why is the linear economy undergoing this transformation toward circularity?

The answer lies in the pressing environmental and economic challenges that have arisen from the linear model’s disregard for sustainability. The circular economy offers a promising solution, advocating for efficiency, longevity, and the preservation of vital resources. It is an acknowledgment that a thriving society hinges upon a holistic equilibrium with our planet.

 

Key Principles of Circularity

At the heart of the circular economy lie four guiding principles: reduce, reuse, recycle, and regenerate. These principles converge to challenge the traditional linear production-consumption paradigm and pave the way for a circular shift, where the value of products and materials is extended through sustained use.

  • Reduce: A conscious effort to use resources more judiciously, curtailing the excesses of production and consumption.
  • Reuse: The revival of objects for their original function or other purposes, essential to the circular economy’s mission of multiple lifecycles for products.
  • Recycle: A transformative process that turns waste, raw materials, and byproducts into fresh products, reintegrating them into the cycle of utility.
  • Regenerate: A commitment to rejuvenate natural resources and ecosystems, restoring balance by replenishing what has been utilized.

 

5 Startups: Pioneering Circular Practices and Innovations

MOA

MOA FOODTECH

MOA, is a Spanish forward-thinking startup, that embodies circularity by up-cycling food by-products through innovative methods. Functioning as a B2B platform, they leverage food by-product valorization using optimized fermentation, aided by their in-house artificial intelligence tool.  They use food production waste and by-products as essential resources for their fermentation process, introducing a novel protein source abundant in nutritional value while significantly minimizing resource consumption. Leveraging biotechnology, they craft sustainable ingredients that optimize the efficiency of protein generation, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly production methods. This process not only curtails waste but also champions sustainable ingredients that substitute animal and plant-based proteins. By reintroducing these ingredients into the food chain, MOA reduces both resource extraction and the environmental repercussions of food industry waste. Their approach underscores their commitment to circular principles by repurposing materials, using cutting-edge technology, and contributing to a healthier planet.

 

Agrain

Agrain

Agrain is a Danish startup that embodies circularity through its innovative approach. The company uses untapped resources, specifically brewer’s spent grain, to create everyday products. This spent grain, which is a by-product of beer and whisky production, is collected from Danish organic microbreweries, thus reducing waste. The production process involves transforming the raw brewer’s spent grain into flour through a gentle and sustainable method that emits 36% less CO2 compared to traditional organic wheat flour production. By repurposing this grain that would otherwise go to waste, Agrain not only provides consumers with delicious and sustainable options but also addresses food waste and environmental concerns. This innovative circular model showcases the potential of turning a once-discarded resource into a valuable contributor to a more sustainable future.

 

orange fiber

Orange Fiber

Orange Fiber is an Italian startup championing circularity through its innovative approach to textiles. By using citrus fruit waste, known as “pastazzo,” which constitutes a significant portion of fresh fruit weight after juice extraction, the company transforms this waste into yarn and fabric. This circular process not only mitigates waste but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly future for the textile industry. The startup’s focus on a transparent supply chain, trademarked products, and a dedicated community of sustainable fashion enthusiasts further reinforces its commitment to circular principles. By creatively repurposing waste into valuable textile materials, this startup demonstrates how circularity and AI technology can harmonize to shape a more eco-conscious and sustainable textile industry.

simpliroute
SimpliRoute

SimpliRoute is a Chilean startup implementing circularity through the integration of AI technology to reshape logistics operations. By optimizing delivery routes and enhancing operational efficiency, the startup simplifies processes and enhances delivery outcomes for businesses globally. Their mission to democratize logistics intelligence aligns with circular principles by making sophisticated solutions accessible to companies worldwide, fostering a more streamlined and sustainable delivery ecosystem. With a strong commitment to innovation, SimpliRoute is not only transforming logistics but also contributing to the evolution of a smarter, more efficient, and globally connected industry

 

Aroundrs

Aroundrs

Aroundrs is an Italian startup driving circularity in the realm of food packaging by harnessing smart, reusable containers to combat the prevalent use-and-throw culture. Through its innovative app, Aroundrs offers a solution to the environmental impact caused by single-use food packaging. Their containers, which are suitable for various needs including take-out and delivery, are designed for up to 200 uses before recycling. This embodies the concept of circularity by extending the lifecycle of each container and drastically reducing waste. The startup envisions a future where waste is non-existent, and materials are endlessly reusable. By transitioning from the linear purchase-consume-pollute model, Aroundrs is pioneering a cultural shift towards a sustainable and circular food packaging approach. This transformation reduces the carbon footprint while ensuring convenience for both businesses and consumers, echoing the principles of a circular economy

 

In conclusion, the circular economy represents a paradigm shift that holds immense potential within the food industry. Departing from the linear approach, this transformative model emphasizes resource efficiency, waste reduction, and innovative reuse strategies. By redefining the trajectory of products and materials, the circular economy fosters a more sustainable and resilient food ecosystem.

Through the exploration of innovative startups, we’ve witnessed the tangible impact of this approach. From turning food waste into valuable resources to promoting local production and reimagining supply chains, these startups are redefining what’s possible within the circular food economy. By embracing the principles of the circular economy, they not only tackle pressing environmental challenges but also carve out new avenues for economic growth and societal progress.

 

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 Robotics in Foodtech: A Look at the Innovations Changing the Food Industry

The food industry has been seeing a significant shift in recent years with the rise of foodtech startups that are using robotics to revolutionize various aspects of the food industry. From automating farming processes such as planting and harvesting, to cooking and delivering food, these startups are leveraging the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, food safety, and the overall customer experience.

Research indicates that the global food robotics market is expected to reach $4.97 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2020 to 2026. These numbers reflect the increasing adoption of robotics in various areas of the food industry such as agriculture, food processing, packaging, and food service.

Automation, with its capacity to relieve workers of tedious and repetitive tasks, enables them to channel their focus and time toward more crucial responsibilities that necessitate higher levels of critical thinking. For instance, in agriculture, automation can play a pivotal role by improving crop yields, enhancing efficiency, and mitigating labor costs.

Similarly, within food processing, robots emerge as valuable assets, capable of managing hefty loads, thriving in demanding environments, and executing tasks with impeccable precision. Moreover, the food service sector is witnessing a notable surge in the adoption of robots to tackle various duties, ranging from cooking and food preparation to the final stages of delivery.

 

 

CAFE X

CafeX

Cafex Technologies is a foodtech startup that uses robotics to improve the food service industry. They have developed an autonomous robot called “Cafex” a cutting-edge, fully automated robotic system that crafts delicious hot and cold beverages within an enclosed kiosk. The menu is extensive and includes a wide range of options, from classic coffee drinks to unique blends such as matcha, teas, and juices. It can take orders, serve food, and even clean up, which can greatly improve the customer experience and free up staff to focus on other tasks. 

Bear Robotics

Bear Robotics

Bear Robotics is a foodtech startup that utilizes robotics to improve the restaurant industry. They have developed a robot called “Penny” that can take orders, serve food and even clean up, which can greatly improve the customer experience and free up staff to focus on other tasks.  

They have distributed over 5,000 of its Servi food service robots, which transport food and beverages from the kitchen to tables using multiple trays, and have formed alliances with well-known companies in the industry such as Denny’s, Chili’s, and Pepsi.

Starship

Starship Technologies

Starship Technologies is using autonomous delivery robots to revolutionize local delivery. Delivering items such as groceries, food takeaways, and packages, Starship now operates in over 30 locations across the world.

Launched in 2014 by Skype co-founders, Ahti Heinla and Janus Friis, they now have delivery robots completing tens of thousands of autonomous deliveries every day. Autonomous delivery is no longer a future concept – and they believe robots are vital in solving last-mile delivery challenges. In total, Starship delivery robots have completed over 5 million autonomous deliveries – the first and only robot delivery company to do so!

 

Savor Eat

SavorEat

SavorEat is a foodtech startup that creates meat alternative products using a combination of robotics, 3D printing technology, and non-GMO plant-based ingredients. The company’s chef robot creates and cooks meatless products according to customers’ preferences and uses proprietary 3D printing technology to create different textures that replicate meat. 

SavorEat aims to provide a plant-based alternative that has the same taste, texture, and experience as meat and is tailored to customers’ specific tastes, diets and lifestyles. The company’s innovative approach to meat alternatives promises to change the way people think about plant-based products and provide a healthier and sustainable alternative to traditional meat.

 

Small Robot Co

Small Robot Company

Small Robot Company is an ag-tech startup that aims to make food production sustainable through the use of robotics and artificial intelligence. They have developed a system of small robots that can plant, tend, and harvest crops with precision, which not only increases efficiency but also reduces the need for human labor.

They invented a new approach called “Per Plant Farming” which involves using autonomous robots to collect data on each individual plant and using that data to gain insights at a field scale. This approach can help farmers build a detailed picture of crop health. Their autonomous mapping and monitoring system is named “Tom”, digitizing the field, locating every single plant, and providing a robust farming machine that is lightweight and reduces soil compaction.

 

To sum up, the food industry is seeing a significant shift with the rise of foodtech startups that are using robotics to revolutionize various aspects of the industry. These startups are leveraging the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, food safety, and the overall customer experience. These innovations have the potential to greatly improve the food industry and provide a sustainable and efficient solution for the future.

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Beyond Traditional Beverages: Must-try Unique Drinks changing the Industry

In today’s health-conscious world, companies are continuously developing new and innovative ways to meet the growing demand for better beverages. From energy-boosting drinks to those that promote relaxation, there are tons of options available. 

In this article, we will explore startups that are making beverages that are disrupting the bev-tech industry, each with its unique blend of natural ingredients and functional claims. Whether you are looking to boost your protein intake, unwind after a long day, or stay focused during a busy schedule, these drinks offer something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and learn more about them.

 

ful

FUL

FUL has introduced a sparkling blue drink made from spirulina, a superfood that offers a range of health benefits. Spirulina has proved to support immunity, provide energy, reduce inflammation, hydrate the body, and enhance brain function. The low-calorie drink is made from natural ingredients and contains no caffeine. It is packed with nutrients and is equivalent in nutrition to healthy foods such as apples, blueberries, broccoli, yogurt, coconut water, almonds, spinach, and carrots. FUL’s spirulina is a complete plant-based protein that includes key amino acids for strength and contributes to normal immune function, iron absorption, bone and digestive health, food-to-fuel conversion, and muscle and nerve function.

 

pepe mate

Pepe Mate

Pepe Mate is a soft energy drink that is healthy and sustainable. It offers a natural source of energy thanks to the use of yerba mate leaves, which naturally contain caffeine and release much more smooth and sustained energy without the highs and lows of other energy drinks. The drink is made from just three natural ingredients: mate, lemon juice, and stevia. It is also  100% ecological, containing zero sugars and zero calories, and provides 40mg of natural caffeine in each can. The production of Pepe Mate is local and artisanal, supporting the economy and offering quality products.

 

vetz

Vetz

Vetz is a captivating and authentic Italian bitters startup that takes inspiration from tradition and infuses it with exotic notes, all while using natural ingredients—no fakes here! With a careful selection of 22 botanicals, VETZ offers a rich aroma boasting Cedar, Gentian, Hibiscus, and Nutmeg. Delight your taste buds with a full-bodied blend of Camomile, Cassia, Elderflower, Orange, and Vanilla flavors. This delightful beverage, with its amber and golden tones, is both light and engaging. With 11% alcohol by volume, it’s the perfect way to wind down after a day’s work and embrace the Italian art of “aperitivo.”

 

goxoa

Goxoa

Goxoa is a startup producing hydrating beer for athletes: enriched with mineral salts, isotonic, and with 0% alcohol. It is the first beer to combine the flavor of craft beer with performance. This drink quenches thirst with 50% fewer calories than a classic beer and 10 times more electrolytes. Goxoa participated in the second Startup Day of Madrid Food Innovation Hub, the incubator of companies in the food sector of the Madrid City Council.

Miwi

MIWI

MIWI kombucha is a range of natural, unpasteurized drinks, created from a fermentation of green tea and organic cane sugar, which is wholly consumed in the fermentation process. This drink does not contain sugar, calories, or alcohol. The benefits of MIWI come from four fundamental points: living microorganisms, organic acids, antioxidant properties, and the absence of sugar.

relash
Relash 

.relash is a startup that launched a drink designed to help people relax, unwind and improve their mood. This beverage is made using all-natural ingredients such as lemon, green tea, ginseng, and vitamin C, which are carefully combined to achieve the perfect balance of relaxation, taste, and health benefits. Lemon balm helps create a sense of calm without causing drowsiness, while green tea contains L-theanine, which helps to relax the mind and body. Ginseng improves memory and mood, and vitamin C helps boost the immune system. The drink is low in sugar and can be consumed at any time, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to unwind and disconnect, either alone or with friends. .relash’s mission is to contribute to creating a more balanced society with a better quality of life, helping people to be in a better mood and enjoy the present more.

 

every

Every Company 

Pulp Culture+ and The EVERY Co. have joined forces to create a “first of its kind” product: BUILD. This is the world’s first protein-boosted hard juice, designed to meet the growing demand for “better-than-ever” beverages with functional, digestive, and adaptogenic claims. BUILD is made with animal-free EVERY Protein, (a neutral-tasting and clear protein made with precision fermentation). BUILD offers premium, source-verified pineapple, coconut, vanilla, ashwagandha, and cordyceps. This hard juice is also sugar-free and contains protein and probiotics.  BUILD’s impressive lineup of benefits is set to disrupt the hard alternatives category and create new possibilities for beverage products of the future.

one more

One More 

One More is a company that produces functional drinks that are designed to support health, high performance, and fun. Their main product is a carbonated drink that is a source of nutrients, vitamins, and mineral salts. One More claims that their drink is ideal for people with busy routines who live every moment intensely and want to be ready for any challenge. The drink is said to promote more focus and concentration, help to recover the body, and provide a sense of well-being without causing agitation. It is also low in calories, containing less than 10 calories per serving, and made for daily consumption without any contraindications. Additionally, One More’s drink contains choline, which they claim is the new caffeine, and is designed to provide a disposition without agitation.

 

To sum up, the beverage industry is continuously evolving, with startups introducing new and unique drinks that cater to consumers’ growing demand for functional and healthier options. From FUL’s superfood-based sparkling blue drink to Pepe Mate’s natural energy drink, .relash’s mood-improving beverage, BUILD’s protein-boosted hard juice, and One More’s functional carbonated drink, these startups offer a range of natural and functional ingredients that provide health benefits and taste great. With a focus on sustainability, health, and unique blends of natural ingredients, these innovative drinks are changing the industry and providing consumers with new and exciting options.

Check out our article about our interview with Victor Guimil of One More, Co-Founder and COO to get to know better the industry. 

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Blockchain’s Impact on Food Safety & Traceability

Throughout the agri-food value chain, various participants play key roles. Each participant shares critical information about the product, which is stored on their local servers. Unfortunately, this information remains inaccessible to other participants, leading to increased possibilities of food fraud within the system.

Here’s where blockchain steps in to address this issue. It provides a secure environment in which every participant in the blockchain network has access to all the data. Once the data is input and verified, it becomes immutable and cannot be altered after that. For example, if a farmer provides a certificate of organic food, verified by an authorized agency, that certificate cannot be tampered with later on.

In the food industry, blockchain technology is revolutionizing traceability by creating a digital record of a food product’s journey from farm to table. This record may include crucial details like ingredient origins, harvest dates, transportation, and storage conditions. Such information can be easily accessed by customers and stakeholders through smartphone apps or QR codes, offering greater transparency and assurance about the food they consume.

In this article, we will explore how some disruptive startups are using blockchain to revolutionize the industry.

 

ripe

Ripe.io 

Ripe.io 🇺🇸 uses blockchain technology to improve the transparency and traceability of food. It allows consumers to trace the origin of their food and provides reliable information about the product’s journey from farm to table. 

They created a digital record of each product and have a mobile app where consumers can access and view information about the product’s origin, environmental impact, and nutritional value. The platform allows producers and suppliers to easily share information with customers and regulators, making it easier for them to guarantee safety regulations and build trust between consumers and producers, leading to a more sustainable food system.

 

trusty

Trusty

Trusty 🇮🇹 is an innovative traceability platform that leverages blockchain technology to provide end-to-end transparency in the agrifood industry. The platform enables businesses to track and monitor their food products from farm to fork, ensuring quality, safety, and sustainability. 

With a strong focus on the cacao and coffee sectors, Trusty has successfully onboarded clients in Colombia, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia, and Sao Tome, establishing traceability and promoting ethical sourcing practices. Trusty empowers producers, strengthens consumer trust, and fosters sustainable supply chains in the agrifood sector

 

tefood

TE-Food 

Following their mission ”You have the right to know what you are eating” TE-FOOD 🇩🇪 uses blockchain technology to improve traceability and enhance food safety. It has developed a blockchain-based traceability solution that tracks the movement of food products from farm to consumer and stores the information. They allow the monitoring of food making it easier to identify and prevent food fraud and reduce food waste. 

The platform has been adopted by more than 6,000 businesses and organizations, tracking over 400,000 transactions daily, it can be used by household farmers, and global brands with different food categories such as meat, eggs, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

 

provenance

Provenance 

Provenance 🇬🇧 aims to increase transparency and trust in the food supply chain. The company creates a digital record for each food product on the blockchain, which includes information about its origin, production process, and ingredients, making it easily verifiable and accessible to customers. 

The platform also offers a certification program for products that meet certain sustainability standards and enables food producers and suppliers to share product information with customers and regulators. Provenance has tracked over 1 million products.

 

agrichain

Agri-Chain

Agrichain 🇦🇺 aims to improve transparency and efficiency supply chain. It uses blockchain technology to create a digital record of each agricultural product that includes information such as the location of growth, farmers’ information, and farming methods.

 The platform also enables real-time tracking and traceability of agricultural products, making it easier to identify and prevent fraud and optimize the supply chain. Agrichain’s solution can be used by various actors in the agricultural industry and it covers a wide variety of products such as grains, fruits, and vegetables.

 

ucropit

ucrop.it 

Ucrop.it 🇦🇷 offers a digital platform, which is free and confidential,  where producers record and verify agronomic events to trace the history of their crops (Crop Story™). The process is very simple and assisted by field agronomists at no cost. All the information entered is under the control of the producer, crypto-verified (using blockchain technology). Each producer owns their crop history, and as such, they decide which companies to share it with in exchange for benefits.

 

To sum up, blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize the food industry by improving transparency, traceability, and sustainability. By providing consumers with detailed information about the origin, environmental impact, and nutritional value of food, and by making it easier for food producers and suppliers to comply with food safety regulations, blockchain technology can help to build trust between consumers and food producers. With the increasing demand for transparency and sustainability in the food industry, blockchain technology plays a significant role in shaping the future of the food industry.

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Alberto Barbari joins Eatable Adventures as Programme Director, driving foodtech innovation and growth

Alberto Barbari joins Eatable Adventures as Programme Director

Eatable Adventures, one of the world’s leading agrifood accelerators,  – the Foodtech Accelerator of the National Network of CDP Venture Capital SGR. Foodseed is a pioneering program aimed at promoting innovation and excellence in the Italian agrifood industry. The program counts on the support of renowned partners and co-investors such as Fondazione Cariverona, UniCredit, and Eatable Adventures, as well as corporate partners including Amadori, Cattolica Assicurazioni, Axxelera, Veronafiere, and scientific partner the University of Verona.

 

Barbari, a seasoned Open Innovation expert, will collaborate with Riccardo Fisogni, the Vice President and General Manager of Eatable Adventures Italia. Together, they will undertake a strategic search for the most innovative startups operating in the FoodTech and AgriTech sectors, capable of addressing the evolving needs of the Italian food supply chain.

Alberto Barbari holds a degree in Management Engineering and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering of the Food Industry. He has gained extensive experience in the FMCG sector, particularly in product development, Design Thinking, and Open Innovation. As the newly appointed Program Director of the Foodseed Accelerator, Barbari will leverage his wealth of expertise to drive the Italian project forward. Over the next three years, Foodseed will actively seek out the most innovative startups operating in the FoodTech and AgriTech industries, with the ultimate goal of creating new business models and fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that promotes sustainability, technology, and ethics. All of these elements will work in synergy to drive the growth and development of the food supply chain.

 

With 5 years of experience in the Barilla Group, specifically in the Innovation division, Barbari has gained valuable expertise in Open Innovation. He has collaborated on projects that have revolutionized the food industry, anticipating the benefits that a smart utilization of technology can bring to the agri-food system of the future. His experience at the Italian multinational has sharpened his ability to identify forward-thinking and innovative initiatives within Barilla’s Global Innovation Platform Unit. This has been achieved by exploring, implementing, and testing cutting-edge technologies, disruptive business models, and new food products and services.

 

As the Program Director of Foodseed, Alberto Barbari will oversee all aspects of the acceleration program, from designing and managing the training curriculum to planning the roadmap for participating startups, including recruitment, selection, evaluation, and investment roadshows. He will also be responsible for identifying mentors and ensuring that the program provides maximum benefits to the startups.

“I am delighted to be in my new position at Eatable Adventures. Having worked with the Italian food industry for a long time, I am aware of the challenges and potential of this sector. I look forward to discovering the new projects that will be part of Foodseed and guiding them towards a path where innovation complements the tradition of Made in Italy. In the years to come, the Italian supply chain will undergo significant changes, and the ethical use of technology will play a crucial role in the production and sales process. Despite these challenges, Italy is ready to make a comeback on the international stage, reaffirming its excellence in food and wine. The synergy between technology and sustainability will inject new energy into our country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” commented Alberto.

 

Barbari’s arrival is just one of many steps that the Accelerator has taken in its expansion, resulting in a 25% increase in staff in recent months to support growth both nationally and internationally. The Accelerator’s commitment to this expansion has been further strengthened by the recent addition of Julia Espeso as Ecosystem Director, who brings significant experience from Harvard University’s ‘Food&Science’ research group. The Accelerator has also opened new offices in Verona, Barcelona, and Bilbao in recent months, demonstrating its dedication to promoting the adoption of new technologies in the food sector. Offering 40 annual programs to companies and governments in Europe and Latin America, as well as 10 acceleration and incubation programs and an extensive network of over 25,000 entrepreneurs, the Accelerator continues to expand its reach and impact.

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Eatable Adventures joins forces with the German government to boost agri-food innovation in northwest Cambodia

Eatable Adventures une fuerzas con el Gobierno Alemán para impulsar la innovación del sector agroalimentario en el noroeste de Camboya

The Foodtech accelerator has been selected by the German Agency for International Cooperation to increase agri-food productivity and promote sustainable practices in the region.

 

ICONE, a project of GIZ (the German Agency for International Cooperation), which promotes sustainable and innovative business practices in Cambodia, has selected Eatable Adventures to drive innovation in the agri-food sector in the northwest of the country. This partnership seeks to integrate sustainable practices and develop innovative solutions to increase the agri-food productivity of local businesses, contributing to the country’s economic progress.

Agriculture stands as one of the foremost economic pillars of the country, contributing around 22% to its gross domestic product (GDP) and encompassing 30% of the nation’s total employment. Alas, a mere 10% to 13% of agricultural produce is subject to processing, resulting in the majority of exported items being in their raw form. It is noteworthy that a significant portion of these products undergoes value-added products in Thailand and Vietnam before being exported back to Cambodia (1). Therefore, there is a need for the country to focus on developing its processing and value-addition capabilities in the agricultural sector to improve its economic growth and competitiveness in the global market.

With this partnership, ICONE and Eatable Adventures will launch a two-year program that aims to analyze the current state of the agri-food industry in the northwest region of Cambodia, encourage investment in the sector’s businesses, and identify the best proposals through innovation challenges and incubation programs.
This initiative is crucial to boosting the agri-food industry on a global scale and responding to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges in terms of sustainability, efficiency, and food security. With the world’s population set to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the need for sustainable and innovative food solutions is more pressing than ever.
“We are excited to partner with Eatable Adventures to promote innovation in the agri-food sector,” said Dr. Stefan Hanselmann, ICONE Program Director. “Our goal is to identify and support the most promising innovations, embed innovative practices in companies, and help drive investment in this strategic sector.”

Eatable Adventures is recognized for its innovative approach applied to the sustainable transition of the global agri-food sector. “We are committed to building the food system of the future by promoting more innovative, sustainable, and efficient business models. This partnership with ICONE is a key milestone for us, as it is fully aligned with our mission to develop and democratize technologies in the agri-food sector, thus contributing to global food security,” said Paula Giser, Director of Corporate Programs at Eatable Adventures. With this same objective in mind, Eatable Adventures has already forged several strategic alliances with governments and international institutions in Colombia, Spain, and Italy.

Over the next two years, the two entities will work together with the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the northwest region of Cambodia to identify and promote the most promising innovations in the agri-food industry, offering a unique growth opportunity for companies seeking to address these pressing challenges and meet the growing demand for food in a responsible and ethical manner.

 

1. Fuente: FAO, 2021 & World Development Indicators 2021 (WDI) by the World Bank

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Italy’s Agri Food-tech sector gets a boost with the launch of the Verona Agri Food Innovation Hub

Verona-Agrifood-Innovation-hub

The Hub will integrate the activity of FoodSeed, the accelerator Foodtech programme of CDP Venture Capital Sgr’s national network, recently launched in partnership with Eatable Adventures.

 

“Stimulate a culture of innovation in the agri-food sector and establish a strong, sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem” is the purpose of the Verona Agrifood Innovation Hub, whose memorandum of understanding was presented and signed on Saturday, March 18th at Veronafiere Congress Centre. This groundbreaking initiative is poised to become the strategic hub for the development of agrifood in Italy, serving as a critical meeting point for entrepreneurs, experts, and researchers to exchange ideas and collaborate on the latest advances in the industry.

At the heart of the Verona Agrifood Innovation Hub is a commitment to promote and disseminate knowledge of the most advanced solutions in the agri-food sector. With a focus on creating strategic connections between all industry players, the Hub is dedicated to relaunching sustainable growth in the sector while upholding ethical principles and enhancing the excellence of the Italian supply chain. This is essential in light of the unprecedented challenges posed by the current international context and the climate crisis.

“Today’s achievement represents a significant milestone for the Verona ecosystem, the development of venture capital, and for its role as an enabler in the technological innovation of production chains,” commented Economy and Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti in the message sent to the event – “Start-ups are key drivers for transformation and modernization processes within mature economies like Italy’s”.

The initiative is supported by a broad partnership of public and private players – Fondazione Cariverona, UniCredit, the Municipality of Verona, Veronafiere, Confindustria Verona, the University of Verona, Cattolica Assicurazioni and Eatable Adventures (which will operationally manage the structure) – and strategically complements the activities of FoodSeed, the start-up accelerator of the National Accelerators Network CDP Venture Capital Sgr financed with over 15 million euros, promoting the growth of young companies specializing in high-potential markets.

The Verona Agrifood Innovation Hub aims to foster entrepreneurship in the agri-food sector, creating high-quality employment opportunities and driving sustainable, long-term growth. The development catalyzed by this new structure is expected to have positive effects on the entire system, both locally and nationally, and will contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the Italian industry.

According to Minister Giorgetti, “the strength of the agro-food sector is a source of pride, but it is important to always look for ways to take a step forward, and this is where the propulsive effect of new companies and innovations can add value: Verona, one of the leading industrial areas in Europe, can serve as a model to be emulated, thanks to an ecosystem that is poised to embrace the opportunities that are being built”. 

To achieve its objectives, the Verona Agrifood Innovation Hub will pursue four lines of action. Firstly, it will establish an ecosystem that brings together and collaborates with enterprises, SMEs, research centers, universities, and citizens with shared food-related interests. Secondly, it will publish periodic reports containing relevant information on the agrifood market to stimulate the emergence of new startups and encourage technology adoption. Thirdly, networking events and collaborative activities involving all stakeholders will be organized to find original solutions to major challenges facing the sector. Lastly, educational projects will be launched to foster tech entrepreneurship, especially among the younger generation. The hub will offer a wide range of activities, all of which will be accessible to startups free of charge.

The latest figures confirm that Italy is poised to take the lead in technological innovation in the agri-food sector, not just locally but also globally. According to the Smart AgriFood Observatory, the Crop 4.0 market was worth approximately EUR 2.1 billion in 2022, representing a remarkable growth of 31% over the previous year. Investments that aim to accelerate the technological transition are also substantial: according to the Venture Capital Monitor of the Liuc Business School, deals closed by venture capital funds in the in agrifoodtech approached 270 million euros over the two-year period of 2020-2021, while last year, the sector ranked among the top in terms of the amount of resources invested.

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Eatable Adventures joins the national network of Italian accelerators

The food technology accelerator has been chosen by CDP Venture Capital Sgr, Fondazione Cariverona, and UniCredit to lead the national Agrifoodtech program in Italy

FoodSeed will have an investment of €15 million to support startups during its acceleration program and subsequent growth

The Italian agrifood system represents 25% of the national GDP and has historically been a driving force for the country’s growth and development. Currently, this market faces several pressures that question the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of the industry compared to other international markets. For the development of Italian companies in this sector, which have always been global symbols of excellence and quality in “Made in Italy” products, there is an urgent need to adopt new business models incorporating sustainability and technology as strategic pillars.

In this context, Eatable Adventures, one of the world’s leading Foodtech accelerators, has been chosen by CDP Venture Capital’s national network of accelerators to lead FoodSeed, the national Agrifoodtech acceleration programme. FoodSeed will join the national network of accelerators of the Italian public venture capital, which already has nearly 20 verticalized programmes, to support the development of the most disruptive agrifood Italian startups.

FoodSeed has received support from promoters and main investor partners CDP Venture Capital, Fondazione Cariverona, UniCredit, and Eatable Adventures, with a funding of more than €15 million (€12 million allocated by CDP Venture Capital, Fondazione Cariverona, and UniCredit, and €3.24 million in additional resources from Eatable Adventures). For three years, the programme will select up to ten startups per year to boost one of Italy’s most important innovation ecosystems, specifically in Sustainable Agriculture, Food and Beverages, and Circular Economy.

Thus, Eatable Adventures begins its commercial activity in Italy, where it has already established offices in the city of Verona, a manufacturing hub in northern Italy, and home to some of the most prominent Italian food companies.

The accelerator has appointed Riccardo Fisogni, Vice President and General Manager of Eatable Adventures Italia, to lead the project. Fisogni is an investment banker, advisor, and business angel with a decade of experience in strategic financial consulting for SMEs and startups. He will promote the company’s 2023 agenda, which includes significant initiatives aimed at renewing the local agrifood ecosystem through the development of new models of collaboration with global ambitions.

“Italy is a strategic market on the global stage, and it is now critical to accelerate the food system transition,” said Riccardo Fisogni, Vice President and General Manager of Eatable Adventures Italy. “The FoodSeed programme will power a new generation of Foodtech startups in Italy, assisting in the global transition of the food system. It is an excellent opportunity for both startups and Italian agrifood companies facing significant economic and environmental challenges. Innovation is the solution to our industry’s major challenges and a key driver of its competitiveness.”

In addition to the FoodSeed program, Eatable Adventures Italy will also promote local ecosystem development initiatives and open innovation projects aimed at fostering the Italian industry’s economic progress and competitiveness, focusing on collaborations among key players in the agrifood value chain, including companies, startups, universities, and R&D centres.

“The Italian food industry is undeniably a strategic market on a global scale, and its emerging ecosystem provides a fantastic opportunity to accelerate the implementation of new technologies in the sector,” says José Luis Cabañero, Founder and CEO of Eatable Adventures. “We are excited to take on this new challenge and build synergies with a market that has very similar characteristics to Spain’s, which will undoubtedly help us structure the European agrifoodtech ecosystem.”

The new FoodSeed programme joins Eatable Adventures’ more than 10 incubation and acceleration programmes for businesses, governments, and projects developed by the accelerator itself. Eatable Adventures connects the most innovative startups with industry, investors, and institutions on four continents to build a solid and competitive agrifoodtech ecosystem on a global scale.

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Eatex Food Innovation Hub launches its second call to promote technology transfer in the agri-food sector.

  • The Hub has opened the application period for Exponential projects to participate in its innovation and technology transfer program.

  • The program promotes and finances collaborative R&D projects to develop innovative technological solutions that can be transferred from R&D centers to the agri-food industry.

Eatex Food Innovation Hub, the collaborative innovation hub for the transfer and implementation of technology in the agri-food industry has opened the deadline for receiving applications for exponential projects for the Innovation and Technology Transfer Development Program. The program is part of the main activities developed by the hub to promote and finance collaborative R&D&I projects for the development of innovative technological solutions that can be transferred from R&D centers to the agri-food industry.
Created a few months ago, Eatex Food Innovation Hub is a project driven by CNTA (National Center for Food Technology and Safety), with the support of the Government of Navarra and the collaboration of more than 10 R&D centers of the Navarra R&D&I System (SINAI), which promotes technology transfer in the agri-food sector to improve business competitiveness and find solutions to the industrial challenges of today and the future. This open and applied innovation ecosystem adopts a holistic approach, based on the implementation of agile and advanced research dynamics and models.
The program is addressed to companies and startups from any geographical location and SINAI R&D centers operating in the agri-food sector seeking collaborative projects based on consortia between companies and R&D centers. The companies are the promoters and are responsible for defining the technological challenge and the R&D centers are the main executors of the research activities.
In addition, the program contemplates two different modalities: Express projects, with fast execution (maximum duration of 6 months projects), and Exponential projects (with R&D&I activities that address complex problems with a variable execution period (from several months up to 2 years)). Pre-application for both modalities is open continuously from December 2022 and upon approval, the application phase will start. For Express projects the call will be open continuously, while for Exponential projects the call will remain open until May 22, 2023.

The projects will address new proposals and solutions in six key research areas for the agri-food industry: Promotion of the Agriculture and Livestock of the Future, Search for New Ingredients and Production Models, Development of New Food and Beverages for a Healthy Diet, and Implementation of the 4.0 Industry and Hyperconnected Processes.
According to Silvia García de la Torre, director of Eatex Food Innovation Hub, “The Program for the development of innovation and technology transfer is a unique opportunity for companies in the agri-food sector to solve their industrial challenges in an agile way, optimizing their resources and minimizing innovation risk.”
More information about Eatex Food Innovation Hub at www.eatexfoodinnovationhub.com

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The investment in the Foodtech sector in Spain grows by over 9% in 2022

The conclusions of the third report on the Foodtech sector in Spain were presented at the ICEX Auditorium. In the framework of this event, some of the main players of the ecosystem have discussed the challenges and the internationalization strategy for this sector. The food technology sector is an essential link in the Spanish food industry.

An intense transformation of food is taking place as a result of the impact of new technologies and the foodtech ecosystem is set to play an essential role in this process in the coming years.

Thus, in a context of global contraction, investment in the foodtech sector in Spain in 2022 has increased by 9.38%, reaching 268 million euros, discounting the Glovo effect, as revealed in the report “Addressing new challenges across the food value chain” promoted by ICEX Spain Export and Investment.

But not only has it been able to attract major investment operations with national and international players, but there has also been a significant increase in the number of operators in the ecosystem: 412 startups, compared to 407 last year, more than 30,000 companies involved in food transformation, as well as more than 50 specialized universities and 20 cutting-edge technology centers involved.

These are just some of the conclusions drawn from the report on the Spanish Foodtech sector in 2022 presented, an essential link in the Spanish food industry.

This third report also points out that, in order to consolidate in the ecosystem, it is essential to have a high technological capacity and strength, which translates into patents, trade secrets and trademarks. Thus, 32.9% of the 412 Spanish startups have a patent for their technology and 29% have a trade secret, which indicates the robustness of Spanish companies in the sector.

Moreover, during 2022, the percentage of startups that have developed their own technology has further increased. In this area, there is a spectacular growth in the use of technologies, mainly startups that use artificial intelligence (AI), rising from 28.21% to 40.79%, gaining 12 points over the previous year.

It is worth highlighting the sector’s contribution in terms of circular economy, providing those technologies that allow the re-valorization of by-products, thus reducing waste and creating new uses ranging from packaging to ingredients.

ICEX CEO, María Peña, opened the event to present the report, highlighting that it is “a fundamental sector for attracting capital and investment in startups”. She stressed that “it has become a key of high added value in any strategy in favor of knowledge and expansion of our ecosystem of innovative and technological entrepreneurs” and also noted “the sector’s commitment to sustainability and making this attribute its flag”.

Likewise, María Peña emphasized that “there is no promotional strategy that is not based on knowledge”, and in this sense, “this report, within the framework of our alliance with Eatable Adventures, is undoubtedly a fundamental element of that knowledge”.

In closing his speech, Peña wanted to put on record that “if Spain will continue to be a Spain Food Nation, it will be so because it is also a Spain Foodtech Nation”.

To download the report, click here

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