The Future of Food: Innovation and Growth in Agrifoodtech
May 17, 2025, 6:43 am
The food industry is undergoing a seismic shift. It’s not just about what’s on our plates anymore; it’s about how it gets there. Two recent reports shine a light on this transformation: Raisio plc’s financial performance and the EIT Food Accelerator Network’s selection of innovative startups. Together, they paint a picture of resilience, growth, and a commitment to sustainability.
Raisio plc, a Finnish food company, recently released its interim report for the first quarter of 2025. The numbers tell a compelling story. Net sales climbed to EUR 57.8 million, a 4.2% increase from the previous year. This growth is not just a blip; it’s a trend. The company’s EBITDA also rose, reflecting a healthy 14.7% of net sales. This is a testament to Raisio’s strategic focus on its core brands, particularly Benecol® and Elovena®. These brands are not just products; they are symbols of health and sustainability.
Raisio’s CEO highlighted the stability of the operating environment. Despite macroeconomic challenges, the food industry remains robust. Food prices have risen, but Raisio has managed to navigate these waters effectively. The company’s strategy is clear: focus on Europe and strengthen its market share. This approach is paying off, as evidenced by the growth in comparable EBIT, which surged by 44% compared to the previous year.
But Raisio is not resting on its laurels. The company is in the midst of a strategic overhaul, aiming to expand its offerings in breakfast and snack products. This is a smart move. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, Raisio is positioning itself to meet this demand head-on. The divestment of its plant protein business is a strategic pivot, allowing the company to concentrate on its strengths.
Meanwhile, the EIT Food Accelerator Network (EIT FAN) is nurturing the next generation of agrifoodtech innovators. With 65 startups selected for its 2025 cohort, the program is a beacon of hope for the industry. These startups are tackling pressing challenges in health, sustainability, and transparency. They are the lifeblood of innovation, each one a spark of transformation in the agrifood sector.
The EIT FAN’s six strategic hubs focus on critical areas: circular food solutions, sustainable packaging, and future-resilient agriculture, among others. This targeted approach ensures that the startups receive the mentorship and resources they need to thrive. The program connects them with industry giants like Bayer, Cargill, and Unilever. This network is invaluable, providing access to expertise and funding that can propel these startups to success.
Among the cohort, companies like DairyX Foods and FermTech are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. DairyX is creating functional milk proteins through precision fermentation, while FermTech is producing affordable, animal-free protein using ancient fermentation methods. These innovations are not just about profit; they are about creating a sustainable future for food production.
The intersection of Raisio’s growth and the EIT FAN’s innovative startups highlights a crucial trend: the food industry is evolving. Companies are recognizing the need for sustainable practices and healthier products. This shift is not just a response to consumer demand; it’s a necessity in a world facing climate change and resource scarcity.
Raisio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its brand recognition. Elovena® was voted the most sustainable brand in Finland for the second consecutive year. This accolade is not just a marketing win; it reflects a deeper commitment to responsible practices. Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that align with their values, and Raisio is stepping up to the plate.
The future of food is not just about feeding the world; it’s about doing so responsibly. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. As Raisio continues to grow and innovate, it sets a precedent for others in the industry. The EIT FAN’s startups are the vanguard of this movement, ready to disrupt traditional models and introduce new solutions.
Looking ahead, the outlook for both Raisio and the agrifoodtech sector is promising. Raisio projects an increase in comparable EBIT for 2025, signaling confidence in its strategic direction. The EIT FAN’s cohort is poised to make waves, with each startup bringing unique solutions to the table.
In conclusion, the food industry stands at a crossroads. The path forward is paved with innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to health. Raisio plc and the EIT Food Accelerator Network exemplify this shift. Together, they are not just adapting to change; they are driving it. The future of food is bright, and it’s being shaped by those who dare to innovate.
Raisio plc, a Finnish food company, recently released its interim report for the first quarter of 2025. The numbers tell a compelling story. Net sales climbed to EUR 57.8 million, a 4.2% increase from the previous year. This growth is not just a blip; it’s a trend. The company’s EBITDA also rose, reflecting a healthy 14.7% of net sales. This is a testament to Raisio’s strategic focus on its core brands, particularly Benecol® and Elovena®. These brands are not just products; they are symbols of health and sustainability.
Raisio’s CEO highlighted the stability of the operating environment. Despite macroeconomic challenges, the food industry remains robust. Food prices have risen, but Raisio has managed to navigate these waters effectively. The company’s strategy is clear: focus on Europe and strengthen its market share. This approach is paying off, as evidenced by the growth in comparable EBIT, which surged by 44% compared to the previous year.
But Raisio is not resting on its laurels. The company is in the midst of a strategic overhaul, aiming to expand its offerings in breakfast and snack products. This is a smart move. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, Raisio is positioning itself to meet this demand head-on. The divestment of its plant protein business is a strategic pivot, allowing the company to concentrate on its strengths.
Meanwhile, the EIT Food Accelerator Network (EIT FAN) is nurturing the next generation of agrifoodtech innovators. With 65 startups selected for its 2025 cohort, the program is a beacon of hope for the industry. These startups are tackling pressing challenges in health, sustainability, and transparency. They are the lifeblood of innovation, each one a spark of transformation in the agrifood sector.
The EIT FAN’s six strategic hubs focus on critical areas: circular food solutions, sustainable packaging, and future-resilient agriculture, among others. This targeted approach ensures that the startups receive the mentorship and resources they need to thrive. The program connects them with industry giants like Bayer, Cargill, and Unilever. This network is invaluable, providing access to expertise and funding that can propel these startups to success.
Among the cohort, companies like DairyX Foods and FermTech are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. DairyX is creating functional milk proteins through precision fermentation, while FermTech is producing affordable, animal-free protein using ancient fermentation methods. These innovations are not just about profit; they are about creating a sustainable future for food production.
The intersection of Raisio’s growth and the EIT FAN’s innovative startups highlights a crucial trend: the food industry is evolving. Companies are recognizing the need for sustainable practices and healthier products. This shift is not just a response to consumer demand; it’s a necessity in a world facing climate change and resource scarcity.
Raisio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its brand recognition. Elovena® was voted the most sustainable brand in Finland for the second consecutive year. This accolade is not just a marketing win; it reflects a deeper commitment to responsible practices. Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that align with their values, and Raisio is stepping up to the plate.
The future of food is not just about feeding the world; it’s about doing so responsibly. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. As Raisio continues to grow and innovate, it sets a precedent for others in the industry. The EIT FAN’s startups are the vanguard of this movement, ready to disrupt traditional models and introduce new solutions.
Looking ahead, the outlook for both Raisio and the agrifoodtech sector is promising. Raisio projects an increase in comparable EBIT for 2025, signaling confidence in its strategic direction. The EIT FAN’s cohort is poised to make waves, with each startup bringing unique solutions to the table.
In conclusion, the food industry stands at a crossroads. The path forward is paved with innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to health. Raisio plc and the EIT Food Accelerator Network exemplify this shift. Together, they are not just adapting to change; they are driving it. The future of food is bright, and it’s being shaped by those who dare to innovate.