Last week, we celebrated World Food Day, a timely reminder that we need smarter ways to feed our growing population. Climate change, evolving diets, and innovation are reshaping food production and delivery.
Several startups in the U.S. are at the forefront of this change. They’re addressing issues like food waste, nutrition, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Here are six exciting companies making a difference.
Sharebite
Founded in 2015, Sharebite helps companies manage meal orders for employees, whether they’re in the office or remote. The unique aspect? For every meal ordered, they donate to someone in need through organizations like Feeding America. In 2022, Sharebite raised $39 million to expand their operations as businesses seek convenience without ignoring social impact.
Arbol
Launched in 2018, Arbol provides weather and climate insurance for agribusinesses. Instead of waiting for claims to be processed, customers are paid automatically when specific weather conditions occur. Using AI, satellites, and sensors, they have gained traction among large farms seeking to mitigate climate risks. Their recent funding round of $60 million in 2024 highlights the growing importance of weather-related insurance in agriculture.
ALOHA
Founded in 2017, ALOHA specializes in plant-based protein products. They focus on clean ingredients and environmental sustainability. Under CEO Brad Charron, the company has transformed into an employee-owned brand inspired by Hawaiian wellness. With $68 million raised to enhance product development and retail distribution, ALOHA is carving out a strong niche in the health food market.
Mission Barns
Established in 2018, Mission Barns innovates by creating lab-grown pork fat mixed with plant proteins. This blend results in hybrid meat products like bacon without the need for traditional animal farming. They recently made headlines by becoming the first company to secure FDA approval for cultivated pork, a significant milestone for the alternative protein sector.
BIOMILQ
Co-founded in 2019 by Dr. Leila Strickland and Michelle Egger, BIOMILQ aims to produce human milk outside the body using cellular agriculture. Initially focused on replicating breast milk, the company has pivoted to create key ingredients for infant formula. With a robust $21 million in Series A funding, they stand at the intersection of biotech and infant nutrition.
Metafoodx
Founded in 2021, Metafoodx developed a 3D AI scanner for commercial kitchens. This technology tracks food usage and waste, providing insights for improvement. In May, they raised $9.4 million to enhance their platform, which has the potential to significantly reduce food waste in large operations.
As the food industry continues to evolve, these startups highlight the power of innovation in addressing some of today’s biggest challenges. With their fresh approaches, they’re not just feeding the world—they’re doing it sustainably.
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