Shinkei Revolutionizes Fish Processing Industry

May 2, 2024, 9:31 am
Shinkei
Shinkei
AgriTechAutomationFashionITRoboticsWaste
Total raised: $7.3M
Shinkei, a cutting-edge commercial fish processing technology company, has secured a whopping $6 million in seed funding to unveil its innovative system that blends machine learning, robotics, and ancient fish harvesting methods. This funding round, spearheaded by Cantos, with additional support from 8VC, Impatient Ventures, Susa/Humba Ventures, Carya Venture Partners, Ravelin Capital, Red & Blue Ventures, Undeterred Capital, and other key investors, marks a significant milestone for Shinkei's mission to transform the way fish are processed and consumed.

Fish, a vital protein source for over 3 billion people worldwide, often goes to waste in the American fishing industry. Shinkei aims to change this narrative by automating the traditional ike jime technique, a humane fish processing method that enhances the quality, taste, and shelf-life of the catch. By leveraging state-of-the-art robotics and machine learning, Shinkei has streamlined the ike jime process, reducing fish processing time to a mere 10 seconds per fish. This not only ensures superior quality but also extends the freshness of the fish by up to three times compared to conventional harvesting methods.

Drawing inspiration from skilled Japanese fishermen who developed the ike jime technique centuries ago, Shinkei's technology revolutionizes fish processing by prioritizing animal welfare and product quality. By harvesting fish immediately on the boat or shore, Shinkei prevents stress-induced chemical buildup in fish flesh, resulting in a more sustainable and humane approach to fishing. This innovation benefits not only fishermen and consumers but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the food supply chain.

Shinkei's hardware is adaptable to various fishing gear and is compatible with high-volume processing methods, promising reliable results and top-notch product quality for fishermen. Beyond wild-caught fish, Shinkei's technology has found success in commercial fish farming, with partnerships established with suppliers like Local Coho, a key player in the seafood industry. By collaborating with industry leaders, including Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining establishments supplied by Yama Seafood, Shinkei is making waves in the culinary world.

Looking ahead, Shinkei envisions a future where its automation technology revolutionizes the entire meat supply chain, simplifying laborious processes, reducing waste, and enhancing the nutritional value of food products. With a focus on sustainability and quality, Shinkei is poised to lead the charge in reshaping the fish processing industry for the better.

Saif Khawaja, Founder and CEO of Shinkei, expressed his excitement about the company's groundbreaking technology, emphasizing the positive impact on fishermen, consumers, and the entire supply chain. Reed Ginsberg, VP of Engineering at Shinkei, highlighted the convergence of robotics and clean-sheet design in advancing fish processing technology. Michael Fabbro, CEO of Local Coho, praised Shinkei's ike jime harvesting robot for improving fish quality and market differentiation.

In a world where innovation meets tradition, Shinkei stands at the forefront of revolutionizing the fish processing industry, one fish at a time. With its commitment to sustainability, quality, and efficiency, Shinkei is set to make a lasting impact on the way we harvest and consume fish, paving the way for a more sustainable future.