Meet the 2024 RisingFoodStars
Find out more about out latest cohort
“Food systems transformation is vital for the health, wellbeing and resilience of people, and of the planet. Together with our community of amazing innovators, we are proud to be part of the movement to create the regenerative food systems our future depends on.” - Richard Zaltzman, CEO of EIT Food
Sustainable agriculture is crucial for ensuring food security, reducing environmental impact, and promoting biodiversity.
Circular food systems and targeted nutrition are pivotal for creating a sustainable and resilient food future.
Alternative proteins and new packaging solutions build a sustainable food system that meets global demands while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable agriculture is vital for food security and environmental health. RisingFoodStars supports innovative startups to promote eco-friendly farming and resource management.
SEEDFORWARD GmBH
Introduction: Researching alternative solutions for efficient and sustainable agricultureLocation: Germany
SeedForward specialises in innovative agricultural solutions, focusing on the development of advanced seed treatments. They conduct intensive research and field trials to create sustainable products that enhance crop health and yield.
By using natural, high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art technology, SeedForward ensures their products meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture. They also prioritise environmental sustainability and work closely with partners to support future-proof farming practices. Their offerings include seed treatments for various crops, with a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to changing agricultural demands.
For more information, visit SeedForward.
Ficosterra
Introduction: Transforming seaweed into fertilisers and biostimulants that promote the maximum development of cropsLocation: Spain
Ficosterra is a marine biotechnology company applied to organic and conventional agriculture. They apply knowledge and biotechnology experience to developing prebiotic and probiotic products (biostimulants, biofertilizers and soil activators) based upon different species of seaweeds and microorganisms that favour the development of crops and plants while reducing the planet carbon foot print.
Ficosterra help farmers increase the yield of their crops by means of sustainable and cost-effective biological solutions hat ensure better harvests, increase plant resiliency and optimise ROI.
For more information, visit www.ficosterra.com/en
Carbone Farmers
Introduction: We help farmers move towards carbon neutralityLocation: France
Carbone Farmers supports agricultural carbon neutrality by helping farmers adopt low-carbon practices, enhancing the value of agricultural products, and providing tools for monitoring and communicating carbon impacts. They focus on converting 800,000 hectares to sustainable practices and aim to sequester over one million tonnes of CO2 in soil within five years.
Their core values include transparency, agility, humility, commitment, proximity, and teamwork, ensuring a strong impact on climate change mitigation while promoting sustainable agriculture.
For more information, visit www.carbonefarmers.com
Fyteko
Introduction: Developing bio-based molecules to enhance crop resilience and sustainability through innovative plant protection solutionsLocation: Belgium
Fyteko creates advanced biostimulants and biocontrol products derived from plant cell wall components. Their bio-based solutions, like NURSEED and NURSPRAY, prime crops to withstand environmental stresses such as drought and temperature extremes.
By combining natural processes with scientific innovation, Fyteko aims to promote sustainable agriculture and improve crop yields. Their products are designed to help farmers transition to eco-friendly practices while maintaining productivity.
For more information, visit www.fyteko.com
MyEasyFarm
Introduction: Helping the agri-food supply chain make the transition to more sustainable agriculture using dataLocation: France
MyEasyFarm supports stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain, from farmers to agri-food groups, in their agroecological transition. This is achieved through its collaborative platform designed for data collection, calculation, and reporting, tailored for Precision, Low Carbon, and Regenerative Agriculture.
Key Achievements:
More than 2000 farmers are currently using the platform.
Over 30 cooperatives and agri-food companies are involved.
Over 150,000 tons of CO2 equivalent have been saved in the past two years.
Team and Commitment:
The team consists of 26 people, representing 7 nationalities across 6 countries.
Dedicated to sustainability,
MyEasyFarm is a purpose-driven company on the path to B Corp certification.
For more information, visit www.myeasyfarm
Evja
Introduction: Advanced precision agriculture solutions using AI and wireless sensors to optimise irrigation, nutrition, and crop protectionLocation: The Netherlands
Evja offers a comprehensive system, OPI, that leverages artificial intelligence and innovative wireless sensors to collect agro-climate data from the field. This data is used to create predictive models for irrigation, nutrition, and crop protection, helping farmers enhance efficiency and productivity.
The platform supports real-time access to critical information on various devices, aiding in better decision-making and planning. Evja’s solutions focus on sustainable practices, reducing chemical use, and improving crop yield and quality.
For more information, visit www.evja.eu
AgroLeague
Introduction: Personalised agronomic services and community support to help farmers transition to more sustainable and profitable agricultural practiceLocation: France
AgroLeague provides tailored agronomic advice, soil and plant analysis, and strategic recommendations to farmers. Their services include field visits and ongoing support to optimise crop production while promoting sustainable practices like crop rotation and conservation agriculture.
AgroLeague's expert agronomists and community of farmers work together to share knowledge, enhance soil health, and improve farm profitability and resilience against environmental challenges.
For more information, visit www.agro-league.com
ekolive
Introduction: ekolive uses eco-bioleaching technology to upgrade minerals and remediate contaminated environments sustainablyLocation: Slovakia
ekolive leverages patented eco-bioleaching technology to naturally extract and process mineral raw materials using microbial weathering. This method upgrades low-grade minerals, recycles secondary materials, and produces ecological biostimulants for agriculture.
Their technology promotes sustainable agriculture, circular economy, and zero pollution by improving soil quality, reducing chemical use, and enhancing resource security. ekolive's innovations offer environmentally friendly solutions for the agriculture and mining industries, contributing significantly to environmental preservation and sustainable resource management.
For more information, visit www.ekolive.eu
FreshSens
Introduction: Freshsens develops sensor technology to monitor and maintain the freshness of perishable goods, reducing post-harvest losses.Location: Turkey
Freshsens focuses on enhancing the shelf life and quality of perishable products through advanced sensor technology. Their solutions monitor key environmental parameters and provide real-time data to optimize storage conditions. This helps prevent spoilage, extending the freshness of fruits and vegetables, and reducing waste. The technology is beneficial for producers, exporters, and retailers, ensuring that perishable goods maintain their quality throughout the supply chain.
For more information, visit www.freshsens.tech
Soil Capital
Introduction: Helping farmers implement regenerative agriculture practices and earn from carbon credits, enhancing sustainability and resilienceLocation: Belgium
Soil Capital empowers farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture practices, improving soil health and capturing carbon. Through their certification program, they measure and certify carbon reductions and removals, rewarding farmers with carbon payments.
This approach supports environmental sustainability, enhances supply chain resilience, and helps companies meet climate targets. Soil Capital collaborates with farmers in France, Belgium, and the UK, offering agronomic support and facilitating a transition to sustainable farming practices.
For more information, visit www.soilcapital.com
Circular food systems reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency, while targeted nutrition improves health. RisingFoodStars helps startups innovating in these areas to drive sustainability and well-being.
Green Spot Technology
Introduction: Producing fermented and upcycled ingredients from food industry by-products, promoting sustainability and nutritionLocation: France
Green Spot Technologies utilises a zero-waste fermentation process to convert food industry side streams, like brewery grains and fruit peels, into nutrient-dense, multifunctional ingredients. Their eco-friendly approach requires minimal water and energy, resulting in ingredients with a low carbon footprint.
The Ferment'Up range offers sustainable, natural, and high-quality powders that enhance various recipes while reducing food waste and supporting circular production practices.
For more information, visit www.greenspot-tech.com/en/
EcoBean
Introduction: Converting spent coffee grounds into sustainable chemicals, promoting circular economy and reducing carbon footprintLocation: Poland
EcoBean innovatively processes spent coffee grounds to produce eco-friendly chemicals like coffee oil, antioxidants, polylactide (PLA), protein additives, and lignin. This technology addresses the significant waste problem associated with coffee consumption and transforms it into valuable resources, helping businesses lower their CO2 emissions and meet sustainability goals.
EcoBean's approach not only supports waste reduction but also encourages the creation of low-carbon products, aligning with green regulations and enhancing environmental responsibility.
For more information, visit www.ecobean.pl
Agrain
Introduction: Upcycling spent grains from breweries into nutritious, sustainable flours and food productsLocation: Denmark
Agrain transforms brewing industry by-products, specifically spent grains, into high-quality, aromatic flours and crackers. Their process reduces waste and utilises resources efficiently, contributing to a circular food system.
The spent grain flours are rich in fiber and protein, offering unique flavours and enhanced nutritional profiles for various baked goods. Agrain’s innovative approach not only provides sustainable food ingredients but also significantly lowers environmental impact by saving water and land.
For more information, visit www.agrainproducts.com
Kern Tec
Introduction: Upcycling fruit pits into sustainable, nutritious ingredients and food productsLocation: Austria
Kern Tec transforms previously unused fruit pits, such as apricot, cherry, and plum kernels, into high-quality, sustainable ingredients for the food industry. They produce plant-based milk alternatives, nut-free spreads, gourmet oils, and other innovative products.
Their process supports a circular economy by reducing waste and utilising resources efficiently, offering a low carbon footprint and promoting sustainable food production.
For more information, visit www.kern-tec.com/en/
OneThird
Introduction: AI and advanced sensors predict the shelf life of fresh produce, reducing food waste and optimising the supply chainLocation: Netherlands
OneThird offers AI-powered fresh produce scanners and a smart quality insights platform that provide real-time quality assessments to predict the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
This technology helps growers, distributors, and retailers make smarter decisions, reducing food waste by up to 25% and saving millions in lost produce. Their solution enhances supply chain efficiency, sustainability, and profitability by delivering accurate, actionable insights.
For more information, visit https://onethird.io
NoPalm Ingredients
Introduction: Local, circular and sustainable alternative to palm oil.Location: The Netherlands
NoPalm Ingredients produces yeast oils and fats from agricultural food waste, serving as sustainable and circular alternatives to palm and other vegetable oils used in food, cosmetics, and home care products. Their process significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and land use compared to traditional palm oil production.
By leveraging food-industry waste, they address both food waste and the environmental impacts of palm oil, promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly industry.
For more information, visit www.nopalm-ingredients.com
Verdify
Introduction: Enabling personalised nutrition by tailoring online recipes to individual dietary needs and preferences using advanced technologyLocation: Netherlands
Verdify offers a platform that personalises online meal inspirations based on individual health conditions, lifestyle choices, and dietary requirements. Their technology integrates with various recipe platforms, providing consumers with tailored meal recommendations.
Verdify's solutions benefit food companies, retailers, and healthcare providers by offering personalised dietary advice and promoting healthier food choices. Their mission is to enhance personal and planetary health through customised nutrition.
For more information, visit www.verdify.tech
Alternative proteins and sustainable packaging reduce environmental impact and reliance on traditional methods. RisingFoodStars supports startups in scaling these innovations for a more sustainable food industry.
Notpla
Introduction: A revolutionary packaging material made from seaweed and plants that biodegrades in weeks, naturally. Location: United Kingdom
Notpla is a family of regenerative packaging materials, made from seaweed and plants. Behind these products is a company of the same name, deeply committed to making the planet a healthier place.
Today, the growing collection provides solutions for many everyday applications, including food containers, pipettes for oils, seaweed-paper, dissolving pods and films. Next to these fully developed solutions, which are ready to drop into industrial supply chains, there is continuous research and develop new applications and prototypes.The more applications we solve, the more waste we eliminate. We are always open for brand partnerships, to bring new products to the market and change to the industry.
For more information, visit www.notpla.com
Meala
Introduction: Enabling the plant-based category to fulfill its potentialLocation: Israel
Meala is revolutionising the plant-based food industry by developing innovative functional proteins that enhance the texture and nutritional value of plant-based meat alternatives.
The technology replaces synthetic additives like methyl cellulose and hydrocolloids with naturally occurring biocatalysts, resulting in cleaner labels and products that better mimic the texture and juiciness of real meat. Meala's ingredients offer superior binding and water retention capabilities, making plant-based products healthier, more sustainable, and appealing to health-conscious consumers.
For more information, visit www.mealafood.com
Neggst Foods
Introduction: A plant-based alternative to chicken eggsLocation: Germany
Neggst aims to create a plant-based alternative to traditional eggs, focusing on sustainability and animal welfare. Their mission is to reduce CO2 emissions and improve the planet's health while providing egg-based dishes without using animal products.
Neggst envisions a future where animal livestock is a thing of the past and resources are used responsibly. They are committed to offering a less resource-intensive, animal-friendly, and allergy-free egg alternative.
For more information, visit www.neggst.co
Matr
Introduction: A new generation of natural plant foodLocation: Denmark
Matr Foods specialises in creating plant-based foods using traditional fungi fermentation techniques. They transform Nordic organic vegetables, legumes, and grains into flavorful and nutritious ingredients with a deep umami flavor and a juicy, tender texture.
Matr’s products are made from five organic ingredients—oats, split peas, lupins, beetroot, and potatoes—without additives or heavy processing. Their mission is to produce sustainable, healthy food that minimises waste and maximises flavour.
For more information, visit https://matrfoods.com
Those Vegan Cowboys
Introduction: Animal-free dairy products with casein from the stainless steel cow, obtained by precision fermentation and plant-based ingredientsLocation: Belgium
Those Vegan Cowboys are revolutionising dairy production by using precision fermentation: their stainless steel 'cow' Margaret produces milk-identical casein without the need for animals. Their mission centres on sustainability, animal welfare, and reducing environmental impact.This way, they aim to offer healthier, eco-friendly alternatives that support traditional farmers in transitioning to more sustainable practices, ultimately relieving them of various societal pressures.
For more information, visit https://thosevegancowboys.com
Bon Vivant
Introduction: Precision fermentation to produce animal-free milk proteins, creating sustainable dairy alternativesLocation: France
Bon Vivant employs precision fermentation to produce milk proteins using nutritional yeasts, which are then used to create dairy products that taste like traditional dairy but are environmentally friendly. Their process significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and land use compared to conventional dairy farming.
By combining advanced technology with traditional dairy expertise, Bon Vivant aims to offer delicious, sustainable, and animal-free dairy products.
For more information, visit bonvivant-food.com
Cultivated Biosciences
Introduction: Building a world in which animal-free dairy is the better choice for everyoneLocation: Switzerland
Cultivated Biosciences develops creamy, dairy-free fat ingredients using natural fats from yeast through fermentation. Their innovative ingredient improves the texture and mouthfeel of plant-based dairy products like cheese and yogurt, making them more appealing to consumers. The company emphasises sustainability and health benefits, aiming to provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dairy.
By collaborating with various institutions and leveraging modern R&D, they are driving the development of high-quality, animal-free dairy products.
For more information, visit www.cultivated.bio
Revo Foods
Introduction: Revo Foods creates plant-based seafood alternatives using 3D food printing technologyLocation: Austria
Revo Foods utilises cutting-edge 3D food printing to produce plant-based seafood alternatives that mimic the taste and texture of real fish. Their mission is to address overfishing and environmental concerns by offering sustainable, healthy seafood options without harming marine ecosystems. The products, made from natural ingredients including microalgae oils, are rich in protein and omega-3, providing nutritious and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional seafood.
For more information, visit www.revo-foods.com
BettaF!sh
Introduction: Creating plant-based seafood alternatives using seaweed and legumes, offering sustainable, ocean-friendly optionsLocation: Germany
BettaF!sh produces plant-based seafood alternatives, such as TU-NAH and SAL-NOM, using seaweed and plant proteins from fava beans and peas. Their products mimic the taste and texture of traditional tuna and smoked salmon, providing a nutritious, soy- and wheat-free option that supports sustainable food production.
BettaF!sh aims to increase seaweed consumption, offer alternative business models to fishing communities, and promote environmental sustainability in food production.
For more information, visit www.bettafish.co/en
Nasekomo
Introduction: Transforming organic by-products into high-protein insect products and fertilisers using Black Soldier Fly larvaeLocation: Bulgaria
Nasekomo employs Black Soldier Fly larvae to convert agricultural by-products into sustainable protein-rich products such as whole-dried larvae, defatted protein meal, and insect oil. These products are ideal for animal feed, offering high protein and functional fat content.
Additionally, they produce organic certified insect fertiliser, enhancing soil health without using fossil fuels. Nasekomo’s approach promotes a circular economy, reduces waste, and minimises the environmental impact of protein production, supporting sustainable agriculture and preserving natural resources.
For more information, visit www.nasekomo.life
Onego Bio
Introduction: Animal-free egg white protein using precision fermentationLocation: Finland
Onego Bio leverages precision fermentation to create Bioalbumen®, a bioidentical egg white protein, without using animals. This innovative approach replicates the nutritional and functional qualities of traditional egg whites sustainably and reliably.
Their technology supports the food industry by providing stable, sustainable ingredients, helping to reduce the environmental impact of egg production and address global food challenges.
For more information, visit www.onego.bio
