The food and beverage industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, primarily driven by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability demands, and advancements in food technology. Over 60% of consumers now seek functional foods that support gut health, energy, and overall well-being, while the global healthy food market is projected to reach $897 billion by 2025.[1]
Startups are leading the charge in alternative proteins, gut health, sustainable packaging, and AI-powered food solutions. They offer businesses the opportunity to enhance product offerings, improve operational efficiency, and future-proof their brand.
Beau Bergman, our Director of Innovation & Partnerships, and Katrina Zheleznyak, our Senior Manager of Innovation & Partnerships, went to Expo West and hosted a private dinner with entrepreneurs, VCs, and corporate executives working across innovation and ventures. The group shared the startups and tech that they are keeping an eye on in 2025. Check out this list of Ventures to watch from the changemakers rethinking food and beverage.
Plant-Based & Alternative Protein Innovations
Startups are driving innovation to make plant-based foods more accessible, functional, and appealing to a broader audience. Mighty Drinks is redefining plant-based nutrition with vegan protein powders designed for better digestibility, taste, and nutritional value.
Similarly, Fermented Fava Bean Protein leverages fermentation technology to enhance fava beans' protein content, flavor, and bioavailability.
Beyond nutrition, startups also reinvent plant-based indulgence with sustainable and delicious alternatives. Green Girl Bake Shop is setting new standards in plant-based desserts with its vegan icebox treats.
By integrating these innovations, businesses can cater to the growing demand for high-quality, plant-based options, aligning with consumer preferences while differentiating themselves in a competitive market.
Functional Nutrition & Gut Health
As people increasingly prioritize gut health and functional nutrition, the demand for probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiome-friendly foods continues to grow. Startups are responding by developing innovative solutions that support digestive wellness and overall well-being.
Authentic CPG & Gut Health blends traditional recipes with modern nutritional science to create gut-friendly consumer packaged goods (CPG), making digestive health accessible through everyday products. Meanwhile, GoodSport offers a natural alternative to artificial electrolyte drinks with its dairy-based sports hydration line.
Beyond beverages, Snackification & Precision Nutrition drives the need for personalized, functional snack options by integrating tailored nutrition with convenient snacking. By leveraging these innovations, businesses can tap into the growing market of health-conscious consumers seeking convenient, functional solutions.
Sustainable & Clean-Label Food Trends
Health-conscious individuals increasingly prioritize minimally processed and clean-label foods that align with sustainability and health-conscious eating habits. Startups like Return to Real are championing this movement by promoting whole, unprocessed foods that encourage a return to natural eating. Meanwhile, Bob’s Red Mill, a leader in whole grain and gluten-free products, continues to innovate with clean-label offerings that cater to evolving dietary needs.
Sustainability extends beyond food products to include eco-friendly agricultural solutions. Arber is leading the charge with organic, plant-based fertilizers and pesticides. As sustainability regulations tighten and awareness grows, enterprises that adopt clean-label ingredients and environmentally responsible practices will strengthen brand loyalty.
Nostalgic & Experience-Driven Foods
Nostalgic flavors drive engagement, with brands modernizing classic foods while preserving their comforting appeal. Startups capitalize on this trend by reinventing familiar favorites with a modern twist. A prime example is Goodles, which reimagines traditional mac & cheese with improved ingredients and innovative formulations.
Startups like TimTamTummy and Millennial Flavor Town are redefining snacking by combining nostalgia with bold, adventurous flavors. TimTamTummy delivers indulgent treats inspired by classic flavors. Meanwhile, Millennial Flavor Town focuses on creating flavor-packed snacking experiences for younger generations seeking unique, standout options.
By tapping into these trends, businesses can expand their product lines, enhance customer loyalty, and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.
Pet Wellness & Healthier Treats
With pet owners prioritizing health-conscious choices, businesses in the pet sector must adapt by offering high-quality ingredients that support pet wellness. People are increasingly looking for pet treats that promote digestion, joint health, and overall well-being, mirroring trends in human functional foods. This shift presents a significant opportunity for brands to differentiate themselves with premium, science-backed formulations.
Retailers and distributors that embrace this demand for clean-label pet treats can strengthen customer loyalty and tap into the rapidly growing pet food market. By partnering with innovative startups like A Better Treat, businesses can offer higher-value, better-for-you pet snacks, meeting the expectations of modern pet owners and driving long-term growth.
Fueling Enterprise Success Through Startup Collaboration
In an industry driven by shifting preferences, sustainability demands, and technological advancements, businesses that embrace innovation will lead the future of food. By partnering with cutting-edge startups, companies can enhance product offerings, optimize operations, and stay ahead of market trends.
VentureFuel helps enterprises navigate this landscape by connecting them with the most disruptive startups, ensuring they remain agile, competitive, and ready for long-term success.