Actual Veggies: A Fresh Take on Food in a Processed World

February 28, 2025, 10:50 pm
Actual Veggies
Actual Veggies
AgriTechAlternativeBeverageEnvironmentalFoodTechProductService
Location: United States, New York
Employees: 1-10
Founded date: 2020
Total raised: $4.8M
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market
AgriTechBusinessE-commerceEngineeringFoodTechInformationITOrganicProductSoftware
Location: United States, Texas, Austin
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1980
Sprouts Farmers Market
Sprouts Farmers Market
AgriTechGroceryMarketOrganicProductStoreWellness
Location: United States, Arizona, Phoenix
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2002
Albertsons
Albertsons
DeliveryDrugE-commerceFoodTechGroceryMarketOnlineProductShopStore
Location: United States, Idaho, Boise
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1939
In a world increasingly wary of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), Actual Veggies emerges as a beacon of hope. This New York-based startup has recently secured $7 million in Series A funding, a clear signal that investors believe in its mission. With revenues soaring by 125%, Actual Veggies is not just riding a trend; it’s leading a revolution.

Founded in 2020, Actual Veggies is on a mission to put vegetables front and center. The company crafts veggie burgers and fries that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Think of it as a culinary renaissance, where vegetables take the spotlight instead of being mere sidekicks. The flagship Black Bean burger, for instance, is a symphony of red pepper and caramelized onion, designed to please both the palate and the body.

The funding round was led by Relentless Consumer Partners, with notable participation from New Fare Partners and industry veterans like Todd Lachman and Ben Rawitz. This influx of capital will help Actual Veggies expand its operations and reach even more consumers who are craving healthier, whole-food options. With its products now available in over 6,500 stores, including giants like Whole Foods and Kroger, the company is poised for significant growth.

The rise of GLP-1 medications, which help manage weight and diabetes, has changed the way Americans approach food. As more people seek healthier options, the demand for clean-label products is skyrocketing. Actual Veggies is perfectly positioned to meet this demand. Consumers are no longer satisfied with just plant-based labels; they want to know what’s actually in their food. Actual Veggies answers this call with transparency and integrity.

The company’s offerings include a variety of veggie burgers, each crafted with recognizable ingredients. The Purple Roots burger features sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets, while the Actual Green burger is a vibrant mix of broccoli, spinach, and kale. These products cater to the growing segment of health-conscious consumers who prioritize nutrition and ingredient integrity.

Actual Veggies is not just about replicating meat; it’s about celebrating vegetables. The founders understand that today’s consumers are scrutinizing ingredient labels more than ever. They want to see and taste the vegetables in their meals. This shift in consumer behavior is a game-changer. As the market for meat alternatives continues to decline, Actual Veggies is thriving. Sales of UPFs have plateaued, while whole-food plant-based products are experiencing sustained double-digit growth. This isn’t a fleeting moment; it’s a fundamental shift in how people eat.

The political landscape is also shifting. With figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advocating against UPFs, the conversation around food transparency is gaining momentum. Actual Veggies supports initiatives that promote public health and cleaner food options. The company is committed to using whole, recognizable ingredients without fillers or unnecessary additives. This commitment resonates with consumers who are increasingly aware of what they put into their bodies.

In a bold move, Actual Veggies recently expanded its product line to include veggie burgers filled with cheese. This decision reflects the company’s dedication to ingredient integrity, regardless of the source. By offering a variety of options, Actual Veggies aims to cater to a broader audience while maintaining its core values. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, proving that consumers appreciate quality over strict adherence to plant-based labels.

The company’s growth trajectory is impressive. With a contract secured with catering giant Compass Group, Actual Veggies products will soon be served in schools, hospitals, and corporate cafeterias, including those at Amazon and Google. This expansion opens new doors and brings nutritious options to a wider audience.

The future looks bright for Actual Veggies. As more Americans turn to healthier eating habits, the company is ready to meet the challenge. The projection that over 24 million Americans will be using GLP-1 medications in the next decade underscores the urgency for better meal options. Actual Veggies is not just a player in the food industry; it’s a pioneer in a movement toward transparency and health.

Investors are taking notice. The $7 million funding round is a testament to the confidence in Actual Veggies’ vision. With seasoned professionals joining the board, the company is set to navigate the complexities of the food landscape with expertise and insight.

In conclusion, Actual Veggies is more than just a startup; it’s a harbinger of change. In a world cluttered with UPFs, it offers a refreshing alternative. By prioritizing vegetables and transparency, Actual Veggies is carving out a niche that resonates with today’s health-conscious consumers. The company is not just feeding people; it’s nourishing a movement. As it continues to grow, one thing is clear: Actual Veggies is here to stay, and it’s changing the way we think about food.