Blue Horizon leads US$2 million investment in Heartbest

Contxto – Blue Horizon Ventures is all about investing in startups that are disrupting the food market for a more sustainable future. And it has found such a contender in Latin America.

Through the Zurich-based venture capital (VC) firm, Mexican Heartbest Foods recently raised its Series A for US$2 million.

The foodtech has been working with ingredients like amaranth, quinoa, and peas to develop vegan dairy products like milk and cheese. These more eco-friendly edibles can currently be found in retailers throughout Mexico.

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Heartbest knows what’s best?

It’s still debated whether the novel coronavirus popped up in the wet markets of Wuhan. What’s more certain is there are consumers who are re-evaluating their eating habits.

In the UK for example, a survey by Mintel showed that 25 percent of people between the ages of 21 and 30 stated that Covid-19 has made them more interested in following a plant-based diet.

As of the writing of this article there is no similar report corresponding to the Latam region. Although I’d say that Mintel Associate Director, Alex Beckett’s words echo here too.

“For consumers struggling to know how to make a positive difference, cutting out animal protein may be seen as a way of tackling the climate crisis, showing compassion for nature, and boosting their own nutrient intake,” stated Beckett.

Related article: Startup cooks up software for vegan food, makes it into European incubator

In Latin America, these habits will depend on factors like pricing and just how tasty these alternatives are.

Either way, Heartbest is located in a promising market.

By the numbers: According to a study by Nielsen, Mexico is the Latam country whose population most commonly reports some form of dietary restriction. Specifically, 83 percent of Mexicans said they follow a specific diet (they’re vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, etc.).

In any case, all our immune systems need a boost right now. So regardless of whether you consume animal-based products or not, it’s time to listen to mom’s sage advice and eat your veggies.