Revolutionizing the Food Industry: VERY Food Co.'s Plant-Based Innovations

In a groundbreaking move, the French startup VERY Food Co. has secured an €850,000 funding round to accelerate the commercialization of its innovative plant-based food ingredients. This latest investment, which includes backing from Apok Invest, Bpifrance, and prominent business angels, positions VERY Food Co. as a trailblazer in the rapidly evolving plant-based food landscape.

Transforming Consumption Patterns, One Ingredient at a Time

Pioneering Plant-Based Emulsifiers

VERY Food Co. has developed a game-changing product called VERY AQUAFABA, an award-winning natural emulsifier that can replace egg whites in a wide range of applications, from patisserie products to cocktails. This innovative solution not only addresses the growing demand for plant-based alternatives but also offers a sustainable and versatile option for food manufacturers and consumers alike.By harnessing the power of plant-based ingredients, VERY Food Co. is revolutionizing the way we approach traditional food formulations. Their AQUAFABA emulsifier, derived from the liquid found in canned chickpeas, provides a functional and eco-friendly alternative to animal-based ingredients, opening up new possibilities for the food industry.

Reinventing Patisserie Butter

In addition to its groundbreaking emulsifier, VERY Food Co. has also been recognized for its work on developing plant-based tourage butter, a specialized type of dry, unsalted butter used in patisserie products where the dough requires folding. This innovative solution, which was awarded a project grant through the government-funded France 2030 investment plan, demonstrates the company's commitment to transforming the way we approach traditional food ingredients.By reimagining the use of plant-based materials in the production of patisserie products, VERY Food Co. is not only addressing the growing demand for sustainable alternatives but also enhancing the overall quality and performance of these beloved baked goods. This strategic move positions the company as a leader in the plant-based food revolution, offering solutions that cater to the evolving preferences of both food manufacturers and conscious consumers.

Strengthening Partnerships and Expertise

To further bolster its capabilities, VERY Food Co. has formed a strategic partnership with the BIA (Biopolymers, Interactions, Assemblies) unit at the public research organization INRAE Nantes. This collaboration will allow the startup to leverage the expertise and resources of this renowned research institution, accelerating the development and refinement of its plant-based food innovations.Moreover, VERY Food Co. has strengthened its team by welcoming Dr. Eugenia Asamoah, a highly accomplished Food Scientist and Food Process Engineer, to contribute to the company's ongoing research and development efforts. This strategic hire underscores VERY Food Co.'s commitment to building a world-class team of experts dedicated to transforming the food industry.

Expanding its Advisory Board

In a move to further enhance its industry expertise and strategic guidance, VERY Food Co. has appointed five new members to its Senior Advisory Committee. These esteemed individuals bring a wealth of experience from leading global food companies, including Mars, McCain, Unilever, and Lactalis, among others.The addition of these seasoned professionals, with backgrounds spanning food science, product development, and business strategy, will undoubtedly bolster VERY Food Co.'s ability to navigate the complex and rapidly evolving plant-based food landscape. This strategic expansion of the advisory board positions the company for continued growth and innovation, as it seeks to redefine the boundaries of what's possible in the world of sustainable food solutions.

Navigating the Evolving Regulatory Landscape

The news of VERY Food Co.'s funding round and strategic developments comes at a time when the plant-based food industry in France is experiencing both growth and regulatory challenges. While supermarket chains like Carrefour have reported impressive sales of plant-based alternatives, the animal agriculture industry has pushed back, lobbying for restrictions on the marketing and labeling of these products.Despite the regulatory hurdles, VERY Food Co. remains steadfast in its mission to transform consumption patterns and promote the widespread adoption of plant-based solutions. The company's commitment to innovation and collaboration with renowned partners positions it as a key player in shaping the future of the food industry, as it navigates the evolving landscape and advocates for the sustainable and responsible development of plant-based food technologies.