MassChallenge

Umami is a pioneering agri-tech company that specializes in cultivating microgreens using advanced, indoor vertical farming techniques. It offers a diverse range of microgreen products, including radish, mustard, red clover, and specialty mixes, along with value-added items like umami pesto and mayonnaise. By operating year-round and eliminating the need for traditional farming land and weather dependence, Umami ensures consistent, high-quality, and affordable microgreens for its customers.

Xibus Systems, Inc. is a company based in Somerville, Massachusetts, that specializes in developing and marketing advanced microbiological analytics and testing tools. These tools are designed to test consumable solutions for pathogens, allergens, and spoilage organisms. The company's innovative platform combines materials science, biotechnology, and optical technology to facilitate quantitative and array-based testing. This approach allows for high throughput and cost-effective solutions with rapid results, making it particularly beneficial for food safety and quality assurance. Xibus Systems aims to create a range of products, including low-cost hardware and consumables, that cater to the growing demand for effective microbiological testing in various industries.

Yeastime is a pioneering company that specializes in advanced fermentation technology. It has developed an innovative retrofitting ultrasound device that enhances fermentation efficiency by up to 30%. By utilizing sensors and mechanical waves, Yeastime's technology optimizes the fermentation process, leading to reduced time, costs, and environmental impact. This approach not only supports industrial productivity but also contributes to a lower ecological footprint, positioning Yeastime as a leader in the field of food technology.

Producer of plant-based protein intended to decarbonize supply chains by creating valuable products from underutilized waste from other industries. The company offers a sustainable plant-based protein that is produced from spent grains by transforming the unused part of the grain from beer manufacturing into functional vegan protein, enabling clients to get products that replace the need for soy and pea protein in meat and dairy replacements

Fotortec is a biotechnology company focused on sustainable protein production through innovative technology. It specializes in creating mushroom-based ingredients that are derived from vegetable waste, effectively transforming what would otherwise be discarded into valuable, fully traceable plant-based products. This process not only contributes to waste reduction but also ensures that consumers have access to nutritious food options. Fotortec's commitment to sustainability and nutrition positions it as a leader in the development of environmentally friendly food solutions.

Producer of food products intended to provide fish meat alternatives through cell cultivation. The company specializes in producing cultivated cell-based fish fat to greatly enhance the flavor, texture aroma and nutrition of alternative protein products, enabling consumers to get healthy fats such as omega-3 that protect from heart diseases.

Bug Mars is a technology company that develops AI-driven software for automated insect farming. Their platform uses cameras and environmental sensors to monitor and record the conditions within insect habitats in real-time, allowing producers to optimize operations, improve performance, and meet the increasing demand for sustainable alternative protein sources.

Cultimate Foods is a pioneering cellular agriculture company specializing in the development of cultivated fat for hybrid alt-meat products. The company's unique technological approach involves 3D cultivation, replicating the structure of animal fat tissue and reducing production costs. Cultimate Foods aims to provide consumers with a more efficient, sustainable, and ethical way to enjoy meat-like experiences while minimizing environmental impact.

Nile Agro Value Chain is an agribusiness startup in agriculture that identifies the set of actors and activities that bring a basic agricultural product from production in the field to final consumption, where at each stage value is added to the product. Nile Agro value Chain achieves this through vertical linking or a network between various independent business organizations and by involving them into food processing, packaging, storage, transport and distribution. The startup also engage in traditional agricultural value chains by generally through spot market transactions involving a large number of small retailers and producers. The venture also characterize agriculture value chain by vertical coordination, consolidation of the supply base, agro-industrial processing and use of standards throughout the chain. The venture achieves its mission in agriculture value chain through agricultural mechanization, traditional farming, farm portfolio investments, interstate trade of agricultural commodities, online trade of food produce through its online marketplace, aggregating farmers into a multipurpose cooperative society, linking farmers to off-takers, contract farming, food processing, providing extension services and collaborating with different stakeholders in the agriculture value chain in Uganda,Africa and beyond. We are currently working with over 1,200 farmers in Ibanda District aggregated or organized under our farmers groups and cooperative society.

Free Dynamics is a technology company that specializes in the development of innovative electronic temperature sensors designed to operate without the need for external batteries. By utilizing a battery-free system driven by quantum dynamics, the company creates miniature and cost-effective sensors that can be integrated into every vial of essential drugs requiring strict storage conditions. This capability allows the pharmaceutical industry to effectively monitor temperature-sensitive products, safeguarding against tampering and counterfeiting while ensuring safe distribution. Additionally, the sensors have potential applications in the food industry, highlighting Free Dynamics' commitment to enhancing the integrity and safety of critical supply chains.

Outlander Materials is a manufacturer focused on addressing the challenges posed by single-use plastics through its innovative product, UnPlastic. This biodegradable alternative is crafted from food industry sources, including by-products and brewery waste, ensuring that it remains functional and compostable without breaking down into harmful micro- or nano-plastics. Designed for food and packaging applications, UnPlastic offers businesses a sustainable option that not only reduces plastic waste but also contributes to minimizing food waste. By providing a circular solution, Outlander Materials aims to transform the packaging landscape and promote environmentally responsible practices.

Volatile Technologies Ltd, established in 2019, specializes in developing artificial intelligence-driven portable smell sensors. Headquartered in London, with offices in Shenzhen and Vilnius, the company focuses on enhancing beer aroma tracking throughout the brewing process. Their innovative solution combines various chemical sensing technologies with AI algorithms, accelerating ingredient and substance detection and profiling in manufacturing processes up to 20 times faster.

Greencovery specializes in food upcycling technology that allows food companies to produce sustainable ingredients from side-stream production. The company's proprietary platform accelerates the time-to-market for new ingredients, focusing on savory flavors, supplements such as amino acids, proteins, fruity flavors, and fibers. By enabling the recovery of valuable ingredients that would otherwise be discarded, Greencovery helps its customers enhance the feasibility and sustainability of their businesses. The ingredients produced have a low carbon footprint, are sourced close to market, and offer high functionality, making them suitable for various applications in the growing sports nutrition, beverages, and protein alternatives sectors.

Oxyle AG, established in 2020 and headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, specializes in wastewater treatment solutions. The company offers services to diverse industries including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food & beverage, research labs, electronics, hospitals, and wastewater plants. Oxyle's proprietary technology eliminates persistent micropollutants such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, endocrine disruptors, color pigments, and industrial chemicals from wastewater. This helps clients comply with regulations, reduce CO2 emissions by avoiding wastewater incineration, and protect water bodies from toxic pollutants.

Fybraworks Foods, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, focused on developing alternative meat substitutes through innovative fermentation techniques. Founded in 2020, the company specializes in creating animal-free meat structural proteins and synthetic meat, aiming to replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat products. By leveraging its advanced technological solutions, Fybraworks Foods enables both industry leaders and individual consumers to access sustainable meat alternatives, thus promoting humane practices and reducing environmental impact associated with animal agriculture.

Umiami is a French food-tech startup founded in 2020 and based in Paris, specializing in plant-based food technology aimed at reducing meat consumption. The company develops innovative plant-based whole-cuts that utilize plant proteins to create alternatives that closely mimic the taste, texture, and aroma of traditional meat products. Through its technological advancements, Umiami seeks to provide consumers with sustainable and appealing food options that align with growing dietary preferences towards plant-based diets.

Michroma Corporation is a biotechnology company that specializes in producing natural thermostable colorants derived from filamentous fungi for the food and cosmetics industries. Founded in 2019, the company operates from locations in San Francisco, California, and Rosario, Argentina. By leveraging synthetic biology, Michroma develops proprietary fungal strains that can be cultivated in bioreactors, allowing for the sustainable and cost-effective production of high-performance ingredients. Its initial offerings focus on pH-stable and heat-stable colorants, which are designed to replace synthetic pigments and those sourced from animals and plants. In addition to colorants, Michroma is also engaged in the production of mycoprotein and other innovative ingredients, collaborating with leading companies in the food and beverage and cosmetic sectors.

Organifarms specializes in developing robotic solutions tailored for greenhouses and vertical farms. Their primary product is harvesting robots designed to automate the harvest, quality control, and monitoring processes of fruit and vegetable crops. This automation addresses the challenges posed by labor shortages and rising labor costs within indoor farming environments, while also enabling cultivation methods free from pesticides.

Grain4Grain is a San Antonio-based food-tech startup focused on producing low-carb, high-protein flour from brewers spent grain, a byproduct of the brewing industry. Utilizing a patent-pending process, the company efficiently dries and mills this grain in under 20 minutes, significantly reducing traditional processing times. This innovative approach allows Grain4Grain to offer a sustainable and nutritious ingredient at competitive prices, addressing a long-standing challenge in the brewing sector. Since its launch, the company has successfully upcycled 120,000 pounds of wet spent grain and introduced two consumer packaged goods in nearly 200 HEB stores. Additionally, Grain4Grain is actively forming partnerships with product makers, bakeries, and pet food companies to further expand its market presence.

Proeon Foods is a company focused on developing a variety of plant-based proteins for food manufacturers. It offers a range of ingredients, including amaranth protein, hemp seed protein, mung bean protein, fava bean protein, and chickpea protein. By providing these plant-based protein options, Proeon aims to promote clean and healthy eating practices, catering to consumers seeking natural food solutions for long-term health benefits.

At Gastrocampo we are revolutionizing the food system making it fairer, more transparent and more sustainable. By combining technology and logistics, we offer a real, scalable and multi-local solution. Gastrocampo is a SaaS-enabled marketplace that gives food producers the tools to digitalize their farm and business so they can connect and sell their produce directly to their hospitality clients (food shops and restaurants), eliminating the need for intermediaries. In turn, we are helping HORECA customers to become more sustainable while saving time and headaches when buying directly from producers! Thanks to AI, Machine Learning and blockchain we will be able to provide a platform mutually beneficent for food producers, restaurants and the environment.

SGMA specializes in coatings & advanced materials using Sol-gel process. It develops practical, sustainable solutions for today’s global problems. SGMA’s technology platform has a wide range of applications. The first area we are aiming to address is that of food packaging. The company is actively engaged in a program to help Starbucks, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Yum! Brands and the World Wide Fund for Nature. SGMA’s Technology Platform provides a quickly scalable solution to address the zero-plastic goal with a potential cost reduction, as the solution is delivered via a mono-material which is 100% recyclable. It has applications beyond the initial coffee cup solution, being able to address trays, boxes, and beyond. The company is led by CEO Dr Fanya Ismail and was founded in 2017.

Wenda is an innovative Italian startup founded in 2015, focused on enhancing food safety and sustainability through advanced technology. The company offers a comprehensive collaborative platform that automates the collection, analysis, and sharing of food traceability data across both cold and hot supply chains. This platform seamlessly integrates with existing measurement tools and management software, providing vital decision support and statistics related to temperature and traceability for all participants in the supply chain. Wenda's user-friendly interface allows for efficient data management, document digitization, and real-time collaboration among stakeholders. By leveraging IoT technology, machine learning, and blockchain, the platform ensures transparency, security, and improved operational efficiency. The company's mission is to reduce food waste and enhance traceability in the food system, supported by a multi-disciplinary team with extensive experience in technology and corporate client management. Wenda has established key partnerships with universities and leading European companies, enabling it to scale its solutions globally and meet the evolving needs of the food distribution industry.

Enzymit is a biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing global manufacturing through sustainable and efficient bio-production methods. It specializes in developing cell-free bio-production technology that aims to eliminate the inefficiencies and complexities associated with traditional bio-production. Enzymit employs artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to design novel enzymes, which serve as molecular machines capable of transforming abundant feedstocks into valuable products, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. The company’s small, modular bio-reactors facilitate this process, promoting resource independence while minimizing environmental impact. By moving away from conventional whole-cell methods to utilizing nature's elemental building blocks, Enzymit enhances cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability in bio-production, while also providing greater flexibility in product customization for various industries.

ImagoAI, Inc. is a food-tech company founded in 2017 and based in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It specializes in food quality assessment solutions for manufacturers, processors, retailers, and distributors. ImagoAI offers a range of innovative products, including GrainQ for grain quality analysis, Feed.AI for animal feed inspections, BakerGo for bakery quality checks, and PotatoMash for potato quality assessment. All these systems employ real-time, non-destructive, and contactless inspection methods. The company is also developing an advanced automated image processing pipeline and artificial intelligence platform designed to rapidly test, analyze, and monitor the quality of food products. Additionally, ImagoAI's technology leverages hyperspectral imaging to gather detailed spectral information, enhancing its capabilities in food safety and quality assurance. The company aims to make safe and high-quality food accessible globally.

La Comandanta identifies and promotes Creole and ancestral Mexican foods and offers bulk and packed products. It was founded in 2011.

En Solución is a company that focuses on enhancing food safety through the integration of innovative nanotechnology and advanced sensing and control systems. The company's current initiatives involve the development of a high-concentration nanobubble generating device, which operates with recirculating and regenerative functions to produce effective nanobubbles in a wash water bath. This technology aims to improve the efficacy of pathogen elimination by utilizing powerful agents in a safer and more controlled manner. By offering novel cleaning and sanitizing methods, En Solución enables clients in the agriculture industry to replace traditional post-harvest chlorine washes with more advanced and effective solutions.

Azucena is a producer of food products that specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine, focusing on the combination of corn with authentic Mexican ingredients. The company offers a range of items, including corn tortillas, tacos, nachos, and organic nopal, aimed at providing healthy and everyday food options for consumers. By emphasizing functional properties and nutritional values, Azucena caters to the tastes of discerning palates while promoting the rich flavors of Mexican culinary traditions.

TicInsect is a company focused on addressing food waste disposal issues by providing sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact. It specializes in the bioconversion of organic waste into protein ingredients for animal feed by rearing larvae, which serve as natural recyclers of this waste. Through this process, TicInsect recovers protein content from food waste, transforming the larvae into protein flour and oil. These insect-derived ingredients offer a sustainable alternative to traditional fish and soy-based feed components, catering primarily to pet food manufacturers seeking protein-rich substitutes.

Lentera Africa is a company dedicated to enhancing agricultural productivity by providing farmers with access to high-value markets for their produce within local and export value chains. Utilizing satellite-based demand planning, Lentera operates a mobile platform that facilitates the aggregation of farm produce. The company's innovative approach includes the development of remote sensors that monitor and transmit environmental data, capturing satellite and drone information to assess crop health and estimate yields. This technology supports farmers in adapting to climate change through smart agricultural practices, precision agriculture, and conservation tillage. By offering valuable data to farmers, agribusinesses, banks, and insurance companies, Lentera helps improve demand planning and sourcing strategies in the agricultural sector.

Tender Food is a food technology startup focused on developing plant-based and cultured meat products. Founded by researchers from Harvard University, the company utilizes novel fiber production technology to transform plant proteins into fibrous structures that closely replicate the texture and mouthfeel of traditional meat. By emphasizing realistic textures and flavors, Tender Food aims to enhance the experience of consuming alternative meats while promoting sustainability and vegan options. Their innovative approach not only provides a viable alternative to animal meat but also retains the nutritional benefits associated with traditional meat products, supporting meat companies in their transition toward more sustainable practices.

Otrafy is a Quality Management Software company that specializes in optimizing vendor relationships for quality assurance departments, particularly within the food production sector. The company offers a blockchain-powered platform that enhances compliance and reduces operational risks in the supply chain. By addressing critical challenges such as certification, compliance management, production efficiency, food safety, disease prevention, and authenticity, Otrafy enables farmers to effectively communicate the history of their products from the farm to the store. This innovative approach helps food production facilities meet regulatory requirements more swiftly by automating mundane tasks and minimizing low-value activities.

Enzymit is a biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing global manufacturing through sustainable and efficient bio-production methods. It specializes in developing cell-free bio-production technology that aims to eliminate the inefficiencies and complexities associated with traditional bio-production. Enzymit employs artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to design novel enzymes, which serve as molecular machines capable of transforming abundant feedstocks into valuable products, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. The company’s small, modular bio-reactors facilitate this process, promoting resource independence while minimizing environmental impact. By moving away from conventional whole-cell methods to utilizing nature's elemental building blocks, Enzymit enhances cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability in bio-production, while also providing greater flexibility in product customization for various industries.

BFT focuses on innovative sugar beet processing to create products with distinctive properties that benefit both food producers and consumers. By offering artificial sweeteners that reduce the glycemic load of foods, BFT addresses the growing concerns related to high glycemic stress in modern diets. Their products are designed to support human metabolism, positively influencing glycemic response and providing metabolic support after sugar intake. This approach not only aids in the formulation of gluten-free and lactose-free foods but also plays a role in combating the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases linked to high sugar consumption, thereby promoting improved nutrition and overall well-being.

Uproot is a New York-based company founded in 2018 that specializes in providing healthy and sustainable plant-based milk solutions for food services, including college dining and coffee shops. The company addresses the increasing demand for diverse plant milk options by offering a range of alternatives such as oat milk, soymilk, and chocolate pea milk. Uproot's innovative dispensers help streamline operations for food service providers, reduce packaging waste, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions and water usage compared to traditional dairy and existing plant milk products. By promoting a more sustainable approach to beverage offerings, Uproot caters to health-conscious consumers looking for eco-friendly alternatives.

Volatile Technologies Ltd, established in 2019, specializes in developing artificial intelligence-driven portable smell sensors. Headquartered in London, with offices in Shenzhen and Vilnius, the company focuses on enhancing beer aroma tracking throughout the brewing process. Their innovative solution combines various chemical sensing technologies with AI algorithms, accelerating ingredient and substance detection and profiling in manufacturing processes up to 20 times faster.

Neema Food produces delicious Central African condiments and sauces. The company's sauces are made from their family recipe from DRCongo going back to 3 generations. Neema Food was established in 2015 in London, England.

Buppy Pets is a manufacturer of dog food. They also deliver their products. They produce their products using dried rosemary, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon.

FoodUnite is a food and beverage company that provides customers with tasty food.

Clean Crop Technologies, based in Haydenville, Massachusetts, specializes in innovative food processing technology that enhances grain and nut quality while reducing waste and safety risks. Founded in 2020, the company's core product is a proprietary 'Clean Current' system which combines electricity with air to generate ionized gases. This process effectively removes toxins, molds, and pests from crops without compromising food quality or creating harmful residues. By extending shelf-life and improving crop yields, Clean Crop Technologies aims to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance food safety.

Smoodi is a company that specializes in the development of an automated smoothie machine designed for convenience and ease of use. This innovative machine features a touchscreen interface, allowing customers to select from a range of pre-programmed smoothie recipes or create their own customized blends. One of its key attributes is its self-cleaning capability, which eliminates the hassle of cleanup after use. In addition to the machine, Smoodi offers pre-packed, all-natural frozen smoothie cups that can be stored in a separate freezer unit. This product line is particularly appealing to convenience store owners, as it enables them to provide fresh, premium, and on-demand healthy nutrition to meet the growing consumer demand for convenient and nutritious options.

Fresh Strips is a smart packaging company focused on delivering cost-effective solutions that enhance the safety of heat-sensitive food products. The company has developed an innovative product consisting of a plastic sticker that can be affixed to food packaging. This sticker changes color in response to heat exposure, providing consumers with a clear indication of whether the food is safe for consumption. By informing consumers about the safety and quality of their food, Fresh Strips aims to improve food safety standards and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

BlueTrace specializes in providing advanced traceability solutions tailored for the seafood industry, particularly focusing on shellfish growers, wholesalers, distributors, and dealers. The company's technology facilitates tagging and compliance, enabling organizations of all sizes to streamline their operations, adhere to regulatory requirements, and manage inventory effectively. By addressing the increasing demands from consumers and aiding in the reduction of animal mortality rates, BlueTrace's solutions not only enhance productivity but also help lower labor costs for shellfish producers and suppliers.

GrubTubs Inc. is a company focused on developing animal feed for local family farms by repurposing food waste. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, GrubTubs collects leftover food from restaurants and delivers it to local farms, where the food is transformed into chicken feed. Additionally, the company cultivates insects that serve as a nutritious food source for chickens, pigs, and fish. By implementing a waste collection system that includes providing restaurants with specialized tubs for food scraps, GrubTubs helps restaurant owners manage and reduce food waste while fostering a connection between urban eateries and rural agriculture.

MEANS Database is a platform that designed to combat food waste.

LEAF Shellfish utilizes advanced high pressure processing (HPP) technology to produce sustainable shellfish products in Southern New England. This innovative approach enhances the quality, yield, and flavor of shellfish compared to traditional high-heat processing methods. By focusing on both undervalued and resurgent local fisheries, LEAF Shellfish aims to expand the culinary uses of sustainably caught and processed shellfish. The company emphasizes retaining the natural flavor of seafood while also extending its shelf life, thereby adding value to existing fisheries in the region. Through its commitment to sustainability and quality, LEAF Shellfish contributes to the local seafood industry and promotes environmentally responsible practices.

Labby Inc. is a technology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializing in smartphone-based optical spectrometry for agricultural applications. Founded in 2017, Labby develops an artificial intelligence-driven platform that translates raw optical data into actionable insights, primarily for farmers and dairy processors. Its flagship product allows for rapid and precise testing of milk composition, facilitating early mastitis detection and enabling timely intervention. Additionally, Labby's technology is applicable across various sectors, including the detection of spoilage, adulterants, and contamination in the supply chain, as well as providing analytics for tracking harvest cycles and meteorological data mapping. The company also caters to the beer and wine industries, offering portable testing devices for quality control and counterfeit detection, serving a diverse clientele that ranges from large breweries to homebrewers.

ApreX Biotech is a developer of advanced organs-on-chips systems aimed at transforming pharmaceutical development and personalized medicine. The company specializes in utilizing innovative origami folding techniques to create intricate 3D tissue architectures from simple, easily manufactured 2D patterns. This technology enables ApreX Biotech to facilitate the advancement of products across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and cosmetics. By providing a cutting-edge platform for in vitro testing, ApreX Biotech supports clients in developing more effective and tailored solutions in their respective industries.

Foodstack is a wholesale food and beverage online food delivery platform. They offer customizing products and pricing for each customer, setting up ordering windows, and enabling standing, and repeat orders, among other things.

Eleis Farm is to cultivate, process and export palm oil.

Canomiks is a company that specializes in genomics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence to support the development of safe and effective products in the functional food and beverage, dietary supplement, and skincare sectors. The company operates a technology platform that employs omics science, data analytics, machine learning, and bioinformatics to validate and certify the biological efficacy and safety of various ingredients and formulations. This innovative approach enables clients to create high-quality products while significantly reducing both the time and costs associated with product development. Canomiks aims to revolutionize the industry by advancing the concept of food as medicine, aligning with a long-term vision of enhancing health through scientifically validated nutritional solutions.

Makomas is a food and beverage company that specializes in producing 100% natural juice drinks inspired by the flavors of West Africa. The company focuses on using fresh, sustainably grown ingredients sourced directly from small farmers in the region. Its products are crafted from a variety of organic fruits, flowers, leaves, and roots, all selected for their scientifically proven health benefits. Makomas aims to provide consumers with gourmet super juices that contain no added sugar, artificial colors, or preservatives, highlighting traditional African recipes while promoting health and sustainability.

Intello Labs is a technology company that specializes in using image matching and machine learning to assess the quality of agricultural crops. It has developed an advanced analytics platform that employs artificial intelligence, computer vision, and deep learning to facilitate decision-making within the food commodities sector. The company's image recognition technology enables the grading and quality monitoring of agricultural products, providing transparency and standardization for growers, traders, retailers, and food service companies. By offering smartphone applications that utilize these image-based technologies, Intello Labs aims to reduce value risk and minimize wastage in agricultural supply chains.

Selina Wamucii operates a mobile platform that facilitates the buying and importing of food and agricultural products from African countries, focusing on the needs of smallholder farmers. By collaborating with cooperatives, farmers' groups, and agro-processors, the company aims to streamline agricultural value chains, thus reducing food wastage and enhancing the incomes of farmers. The platform offers a wide variety of products, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, grains, and spices, enabling global buyers to source fresh, family-grown produce directly from producers. Notably, Selina Wamucii empowers farmers to access markets even in the absence of internet connectivity, ensuring that more fresh produce reaches consumers while building trust between buyers and producers.

LeCycle is a company based in Lausanne that specializes in producing gastronomic oyster mushrooms using repurposed coffee grounds sourced from local restaurants. By collecting used coffee grounds, LeCycle not only creates high-quality mushrooms but also contributes to sustainable waste management practices. The process involves transforming the coffee remains into a nutrient-rich fertilizer, which can be reused, further enhancing the cycle of sustainability. This innovative approach allows LeCycle to address food production and waste reduction simultaneously, promoting environmentally friendly practices in the culinary sector.

Clevot is a company specializing in the development of advanced cleaning technology tailored for the food processing industry. Its innovative solutions are designed to optimize cleaning processes, allowing for efficient resource use while minimizing environmental impact. By facilitating continuous dry cleaning and sanitizing during production, Clevot's technology helps manufacturers save water and reduce waste associated with conventional cleaning methods. This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports sustainability efforts within the industry.

Better Juice Ltd., established in 2017 and headquartered in Rehovot, Israel, specializes in developing biotechnology systems that reduce sugar content in fruit juices using non-GMO methods. The company, founded by a team of experienced food industry professionals including a biochemist and microbiology academician, aims to provide consumers with healthier beverage options while maintaining natural flavors. Better Juice's technology converts monosaccharides and disaccharides into prebiotic fibers and sugars, enabling industrial juice producers to lower or eliminate sugar content in their products through a single-step process. The company is supported by The Kitchen FoodTech Hub – Strauss Group’s incubator, which fosters innovative food-tech ventures aiming to disrupt the global food system positively.

Kulisha is a company that collaborates with food and beverage businesses to convert organic waste into sustainable insect protein for animal feeds. By utilizing insects that metabolize organic waste, Kulisha produces a high-protein input that serves as an alternative to fishmeal, addressing critical environmental issues. With the alarming decline of ocean ecosystems due to overfishing, Kulisha's approach not only helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills but also offers a viable solution for the agricultural sector. The company's automated processing facility processes organic waste sourced from local restaurants and hotels, enabling the cultivation and harvesting of black soldier fly larvae, which are then transformed into a protein-rich meal for animal nutrition.

SensoGenic Inc., established in 2016 and headquartered in Ness Ziona, Israel, specializes in developing diagnostic biosensors for food allergen detection. The company offers portable, handheld devices and digital analyzers designed for consumers, enabling them to test food items for allergens on-the-go. SensoGenic's innovative technology uses biosensors to detect allergens without physical contact, providing users with real-time results via a mobile application. This allows individuals with food allergies to safely consume meals at restaurants or social gatherings by avoiding allergic reactions.

Griyum is a producer of edible cricket flour, which serves as a high-protein, low-cost ingredient for creating nutritionally balanced snacks. Recognizing the health challenges faced by many Mexicans, the company aims to address issues such as obesity and diabetes through the incorporation of cricket flour into processed foods. Griyum operates a value chain that supports micro-producers by providing them with the necessary technological resources to cultivate crickets. Once harvested, Griyum purchases their production, processes it into flour, and subsequently supplies it to various food manufacturers. This innovative approach not only enhances the nutritional profile of snacks but also fosters local entrepreneurship and sustainable food practices.

ThinkEE is a platform focused on the collection, centralization, secure storage, and real-time analysis of data from various connected devices. The company specializes in developing custom Internet of Things (IoT) applications, particularly for the food industry, where it helps manage HACCP regulations through the integration of IoT sensors and mobile applications. ThinkEE's platform generates value in multiple sectors, including building management, smart cities, security, agriculture, and industrial applications. By enabling clients to access critical data insights, ThinkEE supports businesses in optimizing their processes and enhancing operational efficiency.

eggXYt is a biotechnology company focused on the early sex detection of chick embryos immediately after eggs are laid. The company has developed a non-invasive gene-editing technology that utilizes clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats to add a genetic marker to the eggs. This marker causes male eggs to emit a glow when scanned, allowing poultry farms to identify and incubate only female eggs. By enabling early identification, eggXYt's technology helps to streamline operations, reducing waste associated with the incubation of male chicks, which are typically culled after identification. This innovative approach not only enhances efficiency in poultry production but also supports sustainability within the food industry.

Facterra specializes in collaborative performance management software tailored for the manufacturing industry, focusing on industrial after-sales services and asset management. The company offers a cloud-based platform that integrates asset management, maintenance, and energy and water management functions. This user-friendly system enables manufacturing businesses to mobilize staff across maintenance, quality, and production teams, facilitating cross-functional initiatives. By connecting various data sources, including ERP systems and automation tools, Facterra enhances operational efficiency. Its solutions are designed to optimize asset performance and maintenance activities, thus supporting both machine builders and producers in the food and beverage sector.

Nimblr is an IoT based knowledge network that brings best practices to the food processing industry in improving global food security.Food processors worldwide struggle to maintain quality, yield and costs due to variation in inputs, plant health or operator skills. nimblr combines the power of IoT, sensors and predictive models to address these pains. They minimise process risks for customers by constantly adapting their plant operations to the gains in network knowledge. Processors get real-time feedback on key parameters. nimblr improves accuracy of the model through periodic validation and makes processing nimble.

MayoreoTotal.com is an innovative online grocery platform that aims to transform the wholesale grocery market in Mexico, valued at approximately 20 billion USD. The company focuses on serving corporates, retail stores, and restaurants by providing a web-based shopping solution that offers a diverse range of grocery products at competitive prices. By facilitating a shift from traditional offline purchasing to a streamlined online experience, MayoreoTotal.com enables users to buy groceries quickly and efficiently, enhancing convenience and accessibility in the wholesale distribution channel.

Inspecto Solutions Ltd is an innovative company that develops a portable nanoscale scanner designed to detect food contaminants quickly and efficiently. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Israel, Inspecto Solutions aims to enhance food safety by providing a solution that allows farmers, producers, suppliers, buyers, retailers, and quality assurers to receive rapid results. Unlike traditional detection methods that are often expensive and complex, Inspecto's technology enables users to check for early signs of contamination within minutes and at a significantly lower cost. The company's platform also includes a cloud-based application that integrates big data analytics and blockchain technology, ensuring secure data storage and facilitating real-time analysis for multiple contamination parameters. This comprehensive approach helps improve business performance by enhancing traceability and quality assurance throughout the food supply chain.

Rqmicro is a Swiss company based in Zurich, founded in 2013, that specializes in pathogen separation and detection technology. The company has developed proprietary reagents and instruments for rapid microbiological testing, which provide accurate results in under one hour. Rqmicro's technology is utilized for the rapid assessment of water and food safety, enabling clients to detect dangerous pathogens effectively. By delivering quantitative data on contamination, Rqmicro's solutions enhance the overall safety of water and food products, addressing critical public health concerns.

Dry foods, such as nuts and cereals, have been associated with recalls costing up to $ 30 Mio per incident, caused by bacteria contamination. Processors are now required to prove they reduce harmful bacteria during their process which involves tedious procedures. They offer a process monitoring service which reduces the risk of recalls, ensures regulatory compliance, gives real-time overview of bacteria reduction and unlock the saving potential of minimum $ 100 K/line/year.

Ecoflora Cares SAS specializes in the development of natural color technologies for the food and personal care industries. Founded in 1988 and based in Sabaneta, Colombia, the company focuses on creating sustainable and socially responsible solutions derived from biodiversity. Ecoflora Cares provides customized natural color development, guidance on transitioning from synthetic to natural colors, and testing services to evaluate color application in food products, including solubility, stability, precipitation, and concentration. Additionally, the company assists clients with the integration of natural colors into their industrial processes and offers support during industrial process testing. Through its innovative approach, Ecoflora Cares aims to deliver healthy and environmentally friendly products to its clients.

FoPo extends food shelf life from 2 weeks to 2 years by freeze drying & turning it into powder, while reducing food waste & helping farmers. In FoPo, they collect ugly fruits & vegetables before expiry from groceries & farms, freeze dry them, & turn them into food powder to preserve their nutrients, prolong shelf life, & maximize logistics. It can be used for smoothies, soups, fruit shakes, & more. The product will be sold via online, supermarkets, humanitarian mission agencies & food companies. With low price, reduced food waste & support for local businesses & farmers, FoPo creates value from the inefficiency in the food system.

MADbio is a company specializing in biosensor technology for food safety monitoring. Their innovative platform allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple food allergens within minutes, facilitating onsite monitoring that is both ultra-sensitive and quick to respond. Designed for use by untrained personnel throughout the food supply chain, MADbio's solution empowers food producers to make informed decisions swiftly, enhancing the safety and health of consumers with food allergies.

They are changing the story of the smallholder farmer starting with Moringa, known worldwide as “the miracle tree” for its highly nutritional leaves. They take the forgotten part --the seeds-- and process them into an oil with unmatched cosmetic benefits for hair and skin care and a press meal for animal feed and water purification. They manage the entire supply chain- training, micro-credit, miniaturized value-added processing, and marketing to a global audience.

AutoAgronom is a company focused on developing advanced irrigation and fertilization control systems designed to enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability. By leveraging cutting-edge Fuzzy Logic technology, AutoAgronom's solutions help farmers optimize water and fertilizer usage, significantly reducing waste while promoting environmental protection. Their innovative systems enable farmers to achieve higher crop yields while conserving up to 50 percent of water and up to 70 percent of fertilizers. The company's team comprises experts in agronomy, seasoned farmers, and strategic innovators, all of whom bring a wealth of industry experience and a commitment to improving agricultural practices. Through their unique blend of expertise and technology, AutoAgronom aims to support modern farming and contribute positively to the environment.

SproutsIO, Inc. is a company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2013, that specializes in designing and manufacturing automated smart indoor gardening systems. These systems allow individuals to cultivate fresh fruits and vegetables on demand, utilizing machine learning technology and proprietary growing profiles to optimize seed growth. The SproutsIO smart microgarden operates soil-free, offering year-round cultivation that can be controlled via a mobile application. This application provides users with intuitive controls, real-time sensor reports, and camera feeds to monitor their gardens remotely. The system is designed to fit seamlessly in residential spaces, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional agriculture by empowering consumers to grow their own produce regardless of climate or gardening experience. Through innovative hybrid hydroculture technology, SproutsIO aims to make personal farming accessible and efficient, reducing resource use compared to conventional growing practices.

Oto Beverages is a company focused on providing innovative hydration solutions through its unique reusable beverage-making bottle. This product incorporates healthy flavor pods that are conveniently stored within the bottle, allowing users to create fresh, flavorful drinks quickly and easily while on the go. By utilizing local water sources and minimizing waste, Oto Beverages not only enhances the drinking experience but also promotes environmental sustainability. The company aims to offer an appealing alternative to traditional bottled water, making it easier for consumers to enjoy healthy and tasty beverages without the need for disposable packaging.

KnipBio Inc., established in 2013 and headquartered in Lowell, Massachusetts, specializes in developing sustainable biotechnology solutions for animal nutrition, particularly within the aquaculture industry. The company's flagship product is KnipBio Meal (KBM), a single-cell protein derived from microbe strains that convert abundant, low-cost feedstocks into nutritious alternatives to traditional fishmeal. This innovative approach aims to address real-world challenges in aquaculture feed while promoting responsible and sustainable practices.

Flatev AG is a Swiss company that specializes in the manufacturing of innovative tortilla makers and dough pods. Since its incorporation in 2012, the company has developed a unique machine capable of preparing fresh tortillas and other flatbreads within a minute, utilizing a pod system akin to that of a coffee machine. This technology allows users to transform capsules of dough into high-quality bread, reminiscent of handmade varieties, eliminating the need for pre-packaged options. Flatev's product line includes various types of tortilla dough pods, such as corn and flour. The company aims to distribute its machines through department stores, kitchen supply retailers, and wholesale warehouse clubs, while its dough pods will be available in grocery stores. With offices in Zurich, Switzerland, as well as Bridgeton and Brooklyn in the United States, Flatev is positioned to bring a taste of authentic flatbreads to homes and food establishments alike.

LiquiGlide Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of innovative liquid-impregnated coatings designed to facilitate the effortless movement of viscous liquids. As a pioneer in creating permanently wet slippery surfaces, LiquiGlide provides unique solutions that enhance the flow of liquids across various industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, aviation, utilities, and food and beverage. The company's technology addresses the common challenges associated with moving thick liquids, offering a durable alternative that is unmatched in the market. LiquiGlide's products are utilized in diverse applications, ranging from health and beauty to household goods, making it a versatile player in the coatings industry.

Lab Automate Technologies specializes in creating automation solutions tailored for the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and environmental control industries. The company focuses on designing and developing cost-effective automation systems that enhance the efficiency and reliability of laboratory and manufacturing processes. By leveraging advanced technology, Lab Automate Technologies offers precision powder dispensing systems that streamline operations from lab scale to high-speed production. This innovative approach helps clients reduce their product development lifecycle and maintain a competitive edge in global markets.

Arbsource specializes in developing and implementing advanced wastewater treatment solutions tailored for the food and beverage industry. Utilizing biotechnology, particularly microbial electrochemical cell technologies, Arbsource transforms wastewater into a valuable resource, thereby significantly reducing clients' water and power expenses.

Down to Earth Waste Solutions turns food waste into fertilizer. They offer organic waste collection services for small to medium businesses, as well as value-add organic soil production solutions for composting/processing operations.

Cerahelix, Inc. is a manufacturer of ceramic membrane filters designed for high-quality water purification and resource recycling. Established in 2011 and based in Orono, Maine, the company specializes in bio-derived products that utilize patented DNA template technology to create sub-nanometer pores in ceramic membranes. This innovative design enables the filtration of minute particles, allowing water purification agencies to effectively separate salts, metal ions, and other impurities at the molecular level. Cerahelix offers a range of filtration products, including single-channel elements for laboratory and pilot-scale studies, as well as multi-channel elements for commercial applications. Additionally, the company provides filter element housings and laboratory test systems to support small-scale research and development. Its products serve various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, mining, and waste-to-energy.

CocoMama Foods Inc. is a Boston-based company that specializes in producing and selling ready-to-eat quinoa cereals, offering a variety of flavors including fruit quinoa, banana cinnamon, honey almond, and wild blueberry. Founded in 2010, the company focuses on providing nutritious, convenient breakfast options that appeal to health-conscious consumers and snack enthusiasts alike. CocoMama Foods emphasizes the use of ancient grains, such as quinoa and amaranth, in its products, which are also gluten-free. The cereals are available for purchase through retail outlets and online, catering to the demand for tasty and accessible meal solutions.

Sanergy, Inc. focuses on enhancing sanitation infrastructure in urban slums, particularly in Nairobi, Kenya. Established in 2010, the company builds a network of low-cost sanitation centers equipped with essential facilities such as toilets and showers. These centers are then franchised to local entrepreneurs, with financial support from microfinance institutions. Sanergy not only provides access to hygienic sanitation but also collects human waste daily for processing. This waste is converted into valuable byproducts, including organic fertilizers and renewable energy through a biogas generation process. The organic fertilizers are sold to both commercial farms and smallholder farmers, while the generated biogas is used to produce electricity for sale. Sanergy's mission is to promote public health and environmental sustainability by creating an efficient and equitable sanitation system that addresses the needs of underserved urban communities.

CocoMama Foods Inc. is a Boston-based company that specializes in producing and selling ready-to-eat quinoa cereals, offering a variety of flavors including fruit quinoa, banana cinnamon, honey almond, and wild blueberry. Founded in 2010, the company focuses on providing nutritious, convenient breakfast options that appeal to health-conscious consumers and snack enthusiasts alike. CocoMama Foods emphasizes the use of ancient grains, such as quinoa and amaranth, in its products, which are also gluten-free. The cereals are available for purchase through retail outlets and online, catering to the demand for tasty and accessible meal solutions.