Koppie coffee alternative

© Koppie
Investments & Acquisitions

Coffee Alternative Startup Founded by Former Alpro Exec Closes Pre-Seed Funding Round

Koppie, a Belgian startup developing a coffee alternative using locally-sourced legumes and fermentation, has closed a pre-seed funding round. The round was led by Nucleus Capital, with participation from Mudcake, Rockstart, and various angel investors. Koppie was founded in 2022 by Daan Raemdonck, formerly a Marketing Director at Alpro. The startup uses a patent-pending formula to create a coffee bean alternative that is suitable for a variety of formats, including roast and ground blends and capsules. It can be used as a full replacement, or an additive in hybrid products. According to Koppie, the new funding will be used to bring the production of the coffee alternative to commercial scale by early 2026. The startup says it is already in talks with various coffee roasters …

more

Organisations and brands:

plant-based seafood

© aamulya – stock.adobe.com
Studies & Numbers

Report: Plant-Based Seafood Could Provide the Nutritional Benefits of Fish Without the Environmental Cost

A new report by ProVeg has found that with targeted improvements in nutritional formulation, plant-based seafood could provide the nutritional benefits of fish with a much smaller impact on the environment. The report analyzes the nutritional value of 100 plant-based fish products sold in supermarkets across 11 countries, including alternatives to fish sticks, burgers, filets, canned tuna, smoked salmon, shrimp, and calamari.   The research pays special attention to key nutrients that motivate consumers to choose fish, including protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, iodine, and vitamin B12. It also analyzes levels of fiber, which is only found in plants, along with saturated fat and salt, which should be limited for health reasons. “We have found that there are already some great plant-based fish products on …

more

Organisations and brands:

Prime Roots Deli Meats Slicer

©Prime Roots
Products & Launches

Prime Roots Launches Upgraded Plant-Based Deli Meats That Outperform Conventional Meat in Taste Tests

Prime Roots, a U.S. producer of clean-label plant-based meats, has upgraded its line of mycelium-based deli meats after years of research and development. According to the company, the new meat alternatives were preferred over conventional deli meats in third-party blind taste tests, and the majority of meat-eaters said they would be willing to switch to the products. The updated recipes are claimed to be among the only deli meats that are heart-healthy and free of nitrates and cholesterol. Nitrates are found in processed animal meats and are classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization. The meat alternatives are also a source of complete protein. Prime Roots says recent studies indicate that the fungi proteins in its products can build muscle more …

more

Organisations and brands:

Xanterra grand canyon

© Xanterra
Tourism & Travel

US National Parks to See 50% Plant-Based Menus by 2026

Xanterra Travel Collection, the primary foodservice provider for several of the United States’ most visited national parks, has announced a commitment to make 50% of its menu offerings plant-based by the end of 2026. This new policy, which includes popular destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Death Valley, Mount Rushmore, and Rocky Mountain National Park, is the first time the company has set a measurable target for plant-based options at its locations. Transforming national park dining Each year, Xanterra serves over 3 million meals to park visitors, making the shift to plant-based foods one of the largest initiatives in the public-facing travel and hospitality sector. The company’s decision comes as some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the US have also begun offering …

more

Organisations and brands:

Julian Melchiorri

Julian Melchiorri - Supplied by Arborea

Interviews

Arborea: “We’re Creating the Blueprint for a Food System That Can Both Feed People and Restore the Planet”

Julian Melchiorri is an entrepreneur and innovator recognised for his pioneering work on photosynthesis and biomimicry. He is the CEO and Founder of Arborea, a company that leverages microbial photosynthesis in a radical new way to convert CO2 and sunlight into the most scalable proteins on the planet. Named by Forbes as one of the EU’s Top 30 Under 30, he is also a TEDx speaker and winner of the Perez Award for Social Innovation. In this exclusive interview, Julian discusses how Arborea’s innovative Biosolar Leaf technology is revolutionizing food production, the potential for microalgae to meet global protein demand, and how his company is collaborating with industry giants to create a sustainable future for food systems. Can you tell us a bit about Arborea …

more

Organisations and brands:

Algocell

© Algocell
Investments & Finance

Algocell Secures $2.8M in Pre-Seed Funding to Optimize Bioprocessing with AI

Algocell, an Israeli startup focused on AI-driven bioprocess optimization, has raised $2.8 million in pre-seed funding to advance its platform for accelerating the scale-up and efficiency of cell-based manufacturing. The funding round was led by Good Company VC (GCVC) and includes a non-dilutive grant from the Israel Innovation Authority, with participation from several angel investors with sector-specific expertise. AI-powered bioprocess optimization The startup, founded in 2023, specializes in developing an AI-powered Digital Twin platform designed to optimize bioprocess development in industries such as cultivated meat, precision fermentation, biofuels, and cosmetics. This platform leverages machine learning models to improve experimentation speed, process control, and product consistency, even with small datasets. Omri Schanin, CEO and co-founder of Algocell, noted the need for more efficient approaches in cell-based …

more

Organisations and brands:

BLUU

© BLUU

Cultivated Seafood

VAN HEES and BLUU Seafood Partner to Develop Hybrid Cultured Fish Products

VAN HEES, a German family-owned company with nearly 80 years of experience in the food industry, has entered into a strategic collaboration with BLUU Seafood, a leading European food biotech specializing in cultured fish. The partnership, which was initiated in May, combines VAN HEES’ expertise in functional ingredients and seasoning technology with BLUU Seafood’s innovations in cell-based fish production. VAN HEES has a long-standing reputation for developing flavorings, spice mixes, and functional additives for various food sectors, including meat, plant-based, and vegan products. The company’s involvement in this partnership will focus on the development of hybrid products that integrate plant-based ingredients with cultured fish cells, with the objective of creating sustainable, high-quality alternatives to traditional fish and seafood products. “We see great potential in cultured …

more

Plant-based protein

© Kateryna - stock.adobe.com
Business Wire

Alternative Protein Market Trends Analysis and Global Forecast Report 2025-2032 – Rising Consumer Preference for Cholesterol-Free, High-Protein, and Allergen-Friendly Alternatives – ResearchAndMarkets.com

DUBLIN–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The “Alternative Protein Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Type, Application – Global Forecast to 2032” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering. In terms of volume, the alternative protein market is projected to reach 15.37 million tons by 2032, at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period of 2025-2032. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global alternative protein market across five major regions, emphasizing the current market trends, market sizes, recent developments, and forecasts till 2032. The growth of this market is driven by rapid urbanization, increasing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable food options, and the surge in venture capital investments directed toward alternative protein startups. Innovations in food processing and biotechnology, along with the high …

more

Organisations and brands:

Califia Farms launches new oat barista blends

© Califia Farms
Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

Califia Farms Launches Pistachio & Hazelnut Flavour Oat Barista Blends in the UK

Califia Farms has expanded its range of oat barista blends with the launch of two new flavours — Pistachio and Hazelnut — in the UK. The products aim to meet the growing demand for flavoured coffee, and are designed to steam and foam effectively for customers making lattes at home. They provide a less sugary and more cost-effective alternative to flavoured syrups. The pistachio flavour has been launched in response to social media trends for pistachio lattes and Dubai chocolate, while hazelnut is reportedly one of the most popular coffee flavours worldwide. “Unprecedented demand” Califia Farms has also been expanding its range in the US over the past year, launching plant-based milk for kids and coconut-based juice beverages with reduced sugar content. In July of …

more

Organisations and brands:

Switzerland introduces labelling requirements for foods made with painful procedures

Photo: Jan Christoph Heinsch on Pixabay
Politics & Law

Switzerland Introduces Labelling Requirements for Animal Products Made Using Painful Procedures

Switzerland’s Federal Council has introduced new labelling requirements for meat, eggs, and milk originating from animals that have undergone certain painful procedures without anesthesia. The following products must now display additional information about their production method: “A long way to go” The changes came into force on July 1, though there will be a transition period of two years. The declaration requirement applies to all companies that offer the affected foods, including restaurants and small businesses. The Federal Council has also just prohibited the import of fur and fur products produced through animal cruelty, once again with a two-year transition period. Last year, a new version of the Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare (BBFAW) gave 93% of global food companies a low rating for …

more

Danish plant-based diplomacy initiative

Image: Vegetarian Society of Denmark on LinkedIn
Politics & Law

Denmark Launches Plant-Based Diplomacy Initiative to Inspire the EU to Adopt Sustainable Food Policies

In 2023, Denmark became the first country worldwide to launch an official Action Plan for Plant-Based Foods. Since then, the country has allocated 1.3 billion DKK to strengthen the production and consumption of plant-based products. Steps taken so far include updating dietary guidelines to align more closely with the EAT-Lancet Commission’s planetary health diet, supporting plant-based startups, and providing continuing education for professional kitchen staff. Now, several organisations have joined forces to form the Danish Plant-Based Diplomacy initiative, which aims to inspire the European Commission, the European Parliament, and member states to pursue similar plant-based policies. The organisations involved include the Danish Food and Drink Federation (DI Fødevarer), the Danish Chamber of Commerce, the Organic Denmark Association, the Danish Agriculture & Food Council, think tank …

more

Organisations and brands:

© Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)

Studies & Numbers

Americans Wrongly Think Plant-Based Diets Are More Expensive, Survey Finds

A recent survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult found that a majority of US adults incorrectly believe that a plant-based diet is more expensive than one that includes meat and dairy. The survey, which polled 2,206 US adults between June 10 and June 12, 2025, revealed that more than 60% of respondents share this view. Baby Boomers were the most likely to think that plant-based eating is significantly more expensive, with 67% of them believing plant-based foods cost somewhat or much more than a typical Standard American Diet. Majority admit meat is largest expense The survey also highlights concerns about grocery prices, with 77% of adults stating that food costs are currently too high. When asked to identify their largest …

more

Mö cheese

© Mö
Cheese Alternatives

Oat-Based Cheese Brand Mö Sees 88% Sales Growth in Finland, Eyes European Expansion

Mö, a Finnish food technology company, is expanding its portfolio of oat-based cheese alternatives after securing substantial growth in Finland and the Nordics. Founded in 2020 by sisters Annamari and Johanna Jukkola, who grew up on a dairy farm, Mö has quickly gained recognition for its sustainable and functional plant-based products. The oat advantage The company’s offering includes a range of vegan cheeses made from a proprietary oat-based formula developed using locally sourced Finnish oats. The blend, which incorporates up to 70% fresh oat drink, enables the cheeses to maintain authentic flavors, creamy textures, and excellent meltability, while offering healthier nutritional profiles compared to conventional dairy products. The cheeses also contain less fat, functional fibers, and no artificial additives. “We’re not just making cheese alternatives, …

more

Organisations and brands:

Daiya

© Daiya
Products & Launches

Daiya Launches Spicy New Dairy-Free Cheese: Chipotle Cheddar and Pepper Jack

Vancouver-based plant-based brand Daiya has launched two new dairy-free cheese products: Chipotle Cheddar Shreds and Pepper Jack Slices. Both offerings are made with the company’s proprietary Oat Cream™ blend, which provides a creamy texture and meltability similar to traditional dairy cheeses. The Chipotle Cheddar Shreds feature a smoky, spicy flavor profile derived from real chipotle peppers, making them a suitable addition to tacos, burgers, quesadillas, or as a standalone snack. These shreds are marketed as the first in the dairy-free category to offer such a bold level of heat. The Pepper Jack Slices combine a cheddar-style base with jalapeños and red bell peppers for a balanced heat. These slices are positioned as versatile, with uses spanning sandwiches, burgers, and grilled cheese. Both products utilize Daiya’s …

more

Organisations and brands:

better balance papa johns 2

© Better Balance
Food Service

Better Balance to Supply Plant-Based Proteins for Papa John’s Pizzas in Spain and Portugal

Better Balance, a plant-based protein supplier under the Sigma Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with Papa John’s to expand its plant-based menu options across Spain and Portugal, meeting the rising demand for plant-based alternatives in the foodservice industry. Under the agreement, Better Balance will supply plant-based protein products for two of Papa John’s vegan pizza offerings—Green Ranch and Green BBQ—along with a plant-based starter in the form of vegetable fingers. The plant-based protein options include a combination of wheat, soy, and pea proteins, which Better Balance has developed to provide a balanced nutritional profile without compromising on taste. Bringing plant-based to the masses “Partnering with a recognized brand like Papa John’s gives us a valuable opportunity to bring plant-based eating to a wider …

more

Organisations and brands:

Young people eating burgers stock

Photo: MART PRODUCTION on Pexels
Studies & Numbers

Study: Almost Half of Gen Z Brits Would Eat Cultivated Meat Products

New research conducted by Ipsos in the UK has revealed that 47% of Gen Z Brits (defined as those aged 16-29) would consume cultivated meat products. This figure is significantly higher than for other generations — just 21% of Baby Boomers, 22% of Gen X, and 38% of Millennials said they would be willing to eat cultivated meat. However, the survey also indicated a widespread lack of awareness on the subject — 58% of respondents said they knew nothing about cultivated meat, with 33% having never heard of it. This could indicate opportunities to shape perceptions of cultivated products. When asked about the potential positives of cultivated meat, 33% mentioned that animals would not need to be slaughtered. 21% said there would be environmental benefits, …

more

Organisations and brands:

Legumes stock

Photo: Vanessa Loring on Pexels
Health

Physicians Call for American Dietary Guidelines to Prioritize Legumes as a Protein Source

134 physicians have called on the Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to prioritize beans, peas, and lentils as a protein source in the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans. In a letter sent on June 24, the doctors — all members of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) — said that promoting legume consumption would help to prevent and reduce chronic disease. In contrast, they claim that red and processed meats are strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Furthermore, legumes are whole foods and are rich in fiber, which most Americans are deficient in. Some types are sourced from American farmers, who could benefit from an increase in legume consumption. “Important and appropriate emphasis” Recently, …

more

Organisations and brands:

© Mercedes
Materials

Modern Meadow Partners With Mercedes-Benz to Develop Animal-Free Car Interiors

US-based sustainable materials producer Modern Meadow has entered into a development partnership with Mercedes-Benz. As part of the collaboration, the latter has used Modern Meadow’s INNOVERA™ material to develop an animal-free leather alternative for its technology program, the CONCEPT AMG GT XX. The material contains chemically recycled AMG GT3 racing car tires, plant-based proteins, and biopolymers. It is said to replicate key properties of the collagens found in traditional leather, meaning it offers similar levels of design freedom. The leather alternative can be made with different finishes such as nubuck, full grain, or suede; a variety of colors and haptics can also be produced. The CONCEPT AMG GT XX program is designed to provide insights into an upcoming series-production sports car from Mercedes-AMG. In the …

more

Organisations and brands:

Libre Foods

© Libre Foods
Fungi, Mushrooms & Mycelium

Planetary Expands into Fungi-Based Protein with Acquisition of Libre Foods

Swiss biomanufacturing company Planetary SA has acquired the core assets of Libre Foods, a Barcelona-based startup specialising in fungi-based meat alternatives. This acquisition includes Libre’s brand, intellectual property, commercial agreements, and research and development capabilities. The move will significantly strengthen Planetary’s presence in the fungi-based ingredient sector, particularly in industrial fermentation and ingredient development. Libre Foods, known for developing Europe’s first fungi-derived bacon, has been an industry leader in the creation of scalable, mycelium-based products. The company’s proprietary platform, Fungi.AI, enables high-throughput screening and real-time monitoring of fungal strains and fermentation conditions. In 2024, Libre expanded its capabilities with pilot-level technology and began industrial trials, broadening its focus beyond its original bacon formulation. Integrating cutting-edge tech With the acquisition, Planetary will integrate Libre’s technological innovations …

more

Organisations and brands:

Papa John's La Vie

© Papa John's
Food Service

New Vegan Pizza from Papa John’s and La Vie Joins UK Menu for Good

Papa John’s has introduced a new vegan pizza to its UK menu, developed in collaboration with plant-based brand La Vie. This addition, now available nationwide, features a combination of premium plant-based ingredients, including La Vie’s vegan ham, spicy jackfruit pepperoni, and melty Sheese. The pizza is priced at £12 for a large. Here to stay The new creation is built on Papa John’s signature dough and includes a mix of vegetables such as mushrooms, red onions, peppers, and black olives. According to the company, the pizza aims to provide a robust flavor profile while maintaining high-quality, plant-based ingredients. This new offering is positioned as a permanent addition to Papa John’s Vegan Works range. Continued partnership with La Vie This launch follows earlier collaborations between Papa …

more

Organisations and brands:

load more

Most Read in the Last 30 Days

The field of vegan news has grown enormously in recent years, making it increasingly important for decision-makers to keep track of the dynamic scene. While the mass of vegan news certainly does not determine its quality, the increasing coverage of vegan issues in mainstream media highlights the lasting impact that veganism has on our society and the future of the food industry.

more

The relevance of vegan news is especially evident in google data, as vegan google searches increased by 47% in 2020, reaching a popularity almost twice as high as in 2015.

While the overall vegan newsfeed is steadily expanding in response to the growing interest, several sub-reporting media have been formed to cover different issues connected to a vegan lifestyle. Most importantly, vegan food sites, recipe sites, and vegan business sites are shaping the vegan news landscape, with the latter underlining the immense economic potential of the vegan industry.

Vegan News About Food

For publishing, perhaps more than any other industry, it is necessary to capture and reflect social change, with the press ramping up coverage of plant-based issues in response to the rising success of vegan lifestyles. Vegan news mostly focus on the positive effects of a vegan diet, addressing human health, animal welfare and the planet. Therefore, vegan food news is one of the strongest sectors in vegan reporting.

vegan news about food
©insta_photos-stock.adobe.com

Because concerns about the health-ramifications of a meat-rich diet are rising sharply, vegan food news is a crucial news branch in which plant-based foods and recipes are discussed. In particular, vegan food news channels carry the message that there are a lot of vegan food options on the market, saving animals’ lives.

If plant-based products as a whole were seen as a brand, it is safe to say that the brand awareness of plant-based products is increasing year by year. In 2021, more vegan alternatives were launching than ever before, opening a giant market supported by the passion for a healthy vegan diet.

However, the key players in the search for a vegan turnaround are the stakeholders within the industry, including established companies and startups that are gradually expanding their plant-based portfolio. At this pivotal point, the need for another vegan news category has formed, the vegan business news.

Vegan Business News

Vegconomist is an online magazine that specializes in vegan business news and is geared towards a B2B audience. Created by Peter Link in 2018, vegconomist shares news from all over the business world, including vegan hotspots like the UK, Germany, and the United States, but also Asian countries and the African continent.

Vegconomist is now available in four languages, with each site having a different focus based on the language region. While the English-language page is internationally oriented, the German, French and Spanish pages each have a regional focus.

global vegan news
© everythingpossible - stock.adobe.com

Furthermore, vegconomist provides a newsletter that decision-makers and anyone looking to know more about vegan brands, new products in the growing plant-based meat and dairy market, as well as investments and market trends, can sign up for to receive emails containing the latest vegan business news.

If you don't want to miss out on any vegan business news, you can sign up for the vegconomist newsletter here.