Challenge

Fenomenal needs high quality co-mans for their portfolio of brands, and doesn’t have thousands to waste.

Susanne Brose and her Fenomenal team specialize in crafting iconic branding, packaging, and strategic marketing to help entrepreneurs take their products from concept to market, launching or relaunching their CPG businesses. Brose and her team have worked with brokers and consultants in the past to find co-manufacturers but after thousands of dollars wasted and poor matching, knew there had to be a better way for their business as well as their clients.

Luckily, Brose found PartnerSlate and revolutionized Fenomenal’s go-to-market process, allowing them to build their own brand and utilize their resources more efficiently while growing CPG brands to household favorites.

“In my experience being a food and beverage entrepreneur myself, there’s a lot (of co-mans) out there that will screw you. That’s not what is in PartnerSlate. You guys do such a great job of keeping out the toxicity.“

Solution

Thorough and anonymous project listings on the Marketplace bring compatible co-mans to Brose’s team, eliminating their initial searching and vetting.

Brose and her team convert their brand needs into a project listing which is reviewed over a call by our Matching Advisor team for anonymity and accuracy before publishing to the Co-Man Marketplace.

1. Matching-AI alerts the top 20 co-manufacturers within seconds

“And that’s why we’re doing this on PartnerSlate. This isn’t about asking a friend of a friend, ‘Hey do you know anybody?’ No, no, no, no, no. There are specific requirements you have.” Rather than relying on directories or web searches, project listings are published and PartnerSlate’s proprietary matching AI cross references the listing with thousands of co-manufacture profiles and alerts the most compatible. The co-mans are able to review all the information they need to know anonymously before indicating their interest in connecting.

2. Fenomenal creates a shortlist of potential partners in just a few days

With just a few back and forth emails, Brose’s team is able to identify the most viable partners from a list of compatible and available co-mans and pass the shortlist on to the client for final conversations. “Two emails back and forth… Is this a good fit? We’re not in here kicking tires. we’re here to take everyone seriously.”

3. Within weeks, samples are made and a final partner is selected

“I call it the Goldilocks.” The expedited process allows Brose’s team to focus on creating the best product to their client’s specifications, and select a manufacturer that is a good relational fit as well as production fit. What previously took months or years and cost thousands of dollars requires only $199 and a few weeks. “It’s reliable, legally tight, very serious. They have just taken all the bull**** out of it. [PartnerSlate has] taken the ‘expensive’ out of it too.”

“100% the process and security of it. Like that’s why Fenomenal uses it, right? We can vouch for it, that we can bring this to our clients and say, this is fully secure. They (PartnerSlate) have a tight process. We don’t do anything without an NDA, but I can get an NDA in 30 seconds. And that is the difference, that it’s reliable… There’s no better value in the business.“

Results

Fenomenal cuts clients’ time to production by up to 75%.

“Acceleration is there. That is really a value of (the PartnerSlate) platform…You can compress this from 12 months, two years… you can compress this to four months.” Brose and her team expedite their own business cycle, getting their clients through to production in a quarter of the time.

“Get on the platform and you can go to market in four months. You can stop dreaming about your food product and just do it.“

Explore how PartnerSlate can help your team at partnerslate.com.

Learn more about Fenomenal’s work here.

The post How Fenomenal cuts time to production by 75% with PartnerSlate appeared first on PartnerSlate.

“It was within minutes of putting the proposal (project listing) up there that we were already getting responses and inquiries from co-mans.”

Challenge

Fenomenal’s client had been searching for a co-man for 2 years and was losing hope of ever bringing his sauces to market.

A CIA trained chef, Chef John D’Eredita had a portfolio of three incredible and unique sauces however after two years of searching for a co-manufacturer to produce them at scale, he thought it would be impossible. No one was able to replicate his recipes or able to grow with his brand the way he needed. He was close to giving up on ever launching Mama Dita’s.

John’s consulting team at Fenomenal decided to turn to PartnerSlate, knowing that no other platform boasted the number or quality of relationships. At first it was a hard sell to a chef who is so protective of his recipe and intellectual property. Susanne Brose, founder of Fenomenal, knew it would take experiencing the power of the platform for John to trust that they’d be able to do what seemed impossible and find a partner who could earn his trust and meet all his needs.

“That (scaling a chef’s recipe) was the challenge. That is going to take a very special relationship with the right partner. And that’s why we’re doing this on PartnerSlate. This isn’t about just asking a friend of a friend, ‘Hey, do you know anybody?’ No, no, no, no, no. There are specific requirements you have.“

Solution

PartnerSlate’s Marketplace expedited the search process and delivered high quality and interested partners in minutes.

After a call with the PartnerSlate team, Mama Dita’s needs were carefully converted into a project listing and reviewed by Antonella, Lead Brand Matching Advisor, for anonymity and accuracy.

1. Within minutes, compatible co-mans were requesting to chat.

PartnerSlate’s proprietary matching AI alerted the most compatible co-mans in the network of 6,000+, and after years of seeking out co-mans, Chef John was sitting back while connection requests from high quality, startup-friendly companies rolled in. Seeing really was believing.

2. Fourteen co-mans had connected in only one week and a shortlist of four was created.

With such a thorough listing, the co-mans knew exactly what the brand needed and could confidently request to connect knowing they were top candidates. Brose exchanged emails with each lead and narrowed down to a shortlist of four partners for Chef John to have calls with. “We had inquiries from great, great partners and had open and transparent conversations.”

3. In just three weeks, Mama Dita’s had a new production partner confirmed.

Three of the four shortlisted partners produced samples from the chef’s recipes and in less than a month from publishing their project, Mama Dita’s had their perfect co-manufacturer. “I call it the Goldilocks…They understand how entrepreneurs work, think, operate, and they give just enough hand-holding… I can’t imagine a more dream scenario for any startup.”

“It’s reliable, legally tight, very serious. They have just taken all the bull**** out of it… There’s no better value in the business.“

Results

Mama Dita’s launched in only 4 months, going to market in Spring of 2025.

“(Production) in four months? Unheard of!” Fenomenal added another successful launch to their portfolio by leveraging their partnership with PartnerSlate. The high-quality and fast results from the Marketplace allowed Mama Dita’s to meet their deadlines and fill their pre-orders, launching the brand with 3 delicious, chef approved SKUs. Mama Dita’s is actively growing their footprint and has a partner who is able to scale with them as they build their customer base.

“It (PartnerSlate) really is a dream for entrepreneurs and a dream for really the industry. It really is disrupting the industry.“

Explore how PartnerSlate can help your team at partnerslate.com.

Special thanks to Susanne Brose and Fenomenal for sharing Mama Dita’s success.

The post How Fenomenal found their client a perfect co-man in only 3 weeks with PartnerSlate appeared first on PartnerSlate.

Challenge

Chef John had been searching for a co-man for 2 years and was losing hope of ever bringing his sauces to market.

A CIA trained chef, Chef John D’Eredita had a portfolio of three incredible and unique sauces however after two years of searching for a co-manufacturer to produce them at scale, he thought it would be impossible. As a corporate chef for ShopRite, John had deep connections in the industry that he tried to call upon, but still couldn’t find someone who was able to both replicate his recipes and grow with his brand. He was close to giving up on ever launching Mama Dita’s.

John’s consulting team, led by Susanne Brose of Fenomenal, decided to turn to PartnerSlate, knowing that no other platform boasted the number or quality of relationships, and could turn up co-mans who were willing to be partners, not just suppliers.

“A lot of people wanted to manipulate our recipes and manipulate our sauces, and just change it to what works best for them in a factory. So when Susanne was like, ‘Hey, I have a great idea – PartnerSlate.’ I was like ‘It sounds awesome.’ Like a dating website for people who want to find a co-manufacturer.“

Solution

PartnerSlate’s Marketplace expedited the search process and delivered high quality and interested partners in minutes.

After a call with the PartnerSlate team, Mama Dita’s needs were carefully converted into a project listing and reviewed by Antonella, Lead Brand Matching Advisor, for anonymity and accuracy.

1. Within minutes, compatible co-mans were requesting to chat.

PartnerSlate’s proprietary matching AI alerted the most compatible co-mans in the network of 6,000+, and after years of seeking out co-mans, Chef John was sitting back while connection requests from high quality, startup-friendly companies rolled in. Seeing really was believing.

2. Fourteen co-mans had connected in only one week and a shortlist of four was created.

With such a thorough listing, the co-mans knew exactly what the brand needed and could confidently request to connect knowing they were top candidates. Within days, a shortlist of the top four potential partners was created.

3. In just three weeks, Mama Dita’s had a new production partner confirmed.

Three of the four shortlisted partners produced samples from the chef’s recipes and in less than a month from publishing their project, Mama Dita’s had their perfect co-manufacturer. As Brose said, “I call it the Goldilocks…They understand how entrepreneurs work, think, operate, and they give just enough hand-holding… I can’t imagine a more dream scenario for any startup.”

“It was really fantastic in terms of how many people it (the project listing) attracted and finally finding somebody.“

Mama Dita’s launched in only 4 months, going to market in Spring of 2025.

“…through [PartnerSlate] we got lucky to find just the perfect people.” The high-quality and fast results from the Marketplace allowed Mama Dita’s to meet their deadlines and fill their pre-orders, launching the brand with 3 delicious, chef approved SKUs. Mama Dita’s is actively growing their footprint and has a partner who is able to scale with them as they build their customer base.

“[PartnerSlate] is a great place to meet a co-packer or manufacturer that is willing to do something that most people won’t.“

Explore how PartnerSlate can help your team at partnerslate.com.

The post How Mama Dita’s found their perfect co-man in only 3 weeks with PartnerSlate appeared first on PartnerSlate.

As an early-stage brand, choosing a co-manufacturer might feel like a short-term decision. You’re focused on getting into production, launching your first SKUs, or getting your first PO out the door. But the truth is: your co-man decision today can define your growth potential tomorrow.

What happens when a buyer from Whole Foods is interested? When Target wants to test your line in 50 stores? When Costco needs you to scale overnight?

Too many brands get caught off guard when the opportunity comes—because their co-manufacturer can’t keep up. To avoid costly delays (or worse, losing shelf space), you need to choose a manufacturing partner who is not just right for now, but ready for where you’re going.

Here’s how to future-proof your co-manufacturer decision from the start.

1. GFSI-Certified Food Safety

Most major retailers—including Whole Foods, Target, Walmart, Sprouts, and Costco—require food to be produced in facilities certified by a GFSI-recognized food safety scheme such as:

• SQF (Safe Quality Food)
• BRCGS
• FSSC 22000

Ask for your co-man’s most recent audit report and make sure their certification is current. If they aren’t GFSI-certified, that’s a non-starter for many retailers and distributors.

2. GS1 Barcode & Label Compliance

Your product won’t make it into a warehouse—let alone a store—without proper labeling. Your co-manufacturer should:

• Apply GS1-compliant UPCs to units and cases
• Understand case labeling, inner packs, and pallet tags
• Help ensure retail-ready packaging from day one

3. Ingredient Traceability & Recall Readiness

Retailers and distributors require fast, complete traceability of ingredients and packaging. Your co-man should be able to:

• Run a mock recall in 2–4 hours
• Maintain lot-level batch records
• Document suppliers, COAs, and clean sanitation logs

If they can’t trace it, you can’t ship it.

4. Support for Certifications & Clean Claims

Want to pitch Sprouts, Thrive Market, or Erewhon? These retailers look beyond product quality—they evaluate your ingredient integrity and label claims. Your co-manufacturer should be able to:

• Produce Organic, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, or Allergen-Free SKUs with proper segregation
• Provide documentation for every claim
• Help you avoid compliance issues down the road

5. Fulfillment & Distribution Readiness (Bonus, Not Required)

If your co-man can ship directly to UNFI/KeHE or retailer DCs (like Target or Amazon), that’s a major plus. But here’s the important caveat:

Don’t eliminate a great co-manufacturer just because they don’t handle direct fulfillment.

Many top co-mans work with trusted 3PLs (third-party logistics partners) to handle warehousing and shipping. What matters most is that your co-man can coordinate with those partners and deliver ship-ready, compliant products on time.

6. Packaging That Works for Both Retail & E-Commerce

Whether you’re launching in stores or online, your product has to arrive intact, shelf-stable, and beautiful. Your co-manufacturer should be able to:

• Work with sustainable or custom packaging formats
• Ensure leak-proof, tamper-evident, and DTC-friendly design
• Navigate requirements for expiration dates, lot codes, and FIFO compliance

7. A Willingness to Grow With You

At the end of the day, a great co-manufacturer isn’t just a vendor—they’re your production partner. Look for someone who:

• Believes in your product and your mission
• Can scale production as you grow
• Is willing to collaborate, troubleshoot, and evolve alongside your brand

Final Thoughts

Your first co-manufacturer might be behind the scenes—but they’ll be one of the most important partners on your journey to shelf.

Choose someone who isn’t just good at making your product—they need to be great at making your brand retail-ready, audit-proof, and built to scale.

Because when your dream retailer says yes, you want your co-man to say, “We’ve got this.”

Want help vetting co-mans based on retailer requirements?

We’ve created retailer-specific guides for Whole Foods, Costco, Thrive Market, Amazon Fresh, Target, and more. See our blog for all the guides! PartnerSlate can also help you match with one that’s retail-ready from day one.

The post How to Choose a Co-Manufacturer That Can Grow With You appeared first on PartnerSlate.

Want help vetting co-mans based on retailer requirements?

We’ve created retailer-specific guides for Whole Foods, Costco, Thrive Market, Amazon Fresh, Target, and more. See our blog for all the guides! PartnerSlate can also help you match with one that’s retail-ready from day one.

The post Compare Requirements by Retailer appeared first on PartnerSlate.

Across the U.S., an increasing number of states are introducing legislation to ban, restrict, or require labeling for synthetic food dyes such as Red 3, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. Meanwhile, the FDA has already moved to revoke authorization for certain dyes, with more regulatory shifts likely on the horizon.

These changes are poised to significantly impact product development, manufacturing, and compliance for CPG brands—especially those in categories like confections, gummies, desserts, baking mixes, and beverages.

Here’s what you need to know to get ahead of the curve.

The Current Landscape of Synthetic Color Regulation

As of April 2025, more than 100 active bills across 33 U.S. states are targeting synthetic food additives, particularly artificial colors.

Some of the key developments include:

• West Virginia passed a bill banning all FD&C dyes in food, effective January 2028, and in school meals starting August 2025.
• California and Virginia have banned FD&C dyes in school meals beginning in 2027.
• The FDA announced it will revoke the use of Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs, effective January 15, 2027.
• The “Make America Health Again” commission, backed by Health and Human Services, is prioritizing scrutiny of synthetic dyes, preservatives, emulsifiers, and flavors.

While timelines vary, the direction is clear: artificial food dyes are on the way out—and CPG brands will need to act fast to remain compliant.

What This Means for CPG Brands

If your products contain any synthetic dyes (Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3), you may soon be forced to reformulate.

But compliance is only one part of the challenge. Successful reformulation also requires maintaining:

• Visual appeal
• Flavor integrity
• Functional performance
• Consumer trust

Natural alternatives—such as color extracts from fruits, vegetables, and botanicals—are available, but they often come with:

• Taste and aroma tradeoffs
• Higher cost of goods sold (COGS)
• Stability or consistency issues
• Regulatory use restrictions by category

Navigating these challenges isn’t just an R&D task—it requires cross-functional coordination across your regulatory, procurement, product development, and manufacturing teams.

The Time to Act Is Now

The reformulation process takes time. From sourcing ingredients to conducting taste trials to validating new formulations with co-manufacturers, a proper transition often takes 12 to 18 months.

That’s why leading CPG companies are already initiating these changes. Brands that wait until 2026 may find themselves scrambling to meet compliance deadlines—or worse, out of spec and off shelves. Additionally, with consumers now hyper-aware of these ingredients, their purchasing habits may change in advance of the bans, so the time to act is now.

Here are four steps to get started:

1. Audit Your Ingredient List

Identify which of your SKUs include synthetic dyes and which markets are affected by pending or approved regulations.

2. Evaluate Your Current Manufacturing Capabilities

Is your current co-manufacturer able to work with natural alternatives? Do they offer formulation support or have experience with school-compliant and clean-label products?

3. Engage with Regulatory & Flavor Experts

Reformulation success depends on maintaining both compliance and taste. You’ll need experts who understand the science and regulation behind natural colorants and taste-masking solutions. McCormick Flavor Solutions are industry leaders in formulating flavors and colors.

4. Find the Right Partners Now

If your current manufacturer or supplier network isn’t equipped for this transition, now is the time to secure new partnerships—before co-mans and formulation labs hit capacity.

How PartnerSlate Can Help

At PartnerSlate, we work with thousands of qualified contract manufacturers and product development specialists who are already adapting to the upcoming regulatory changes.

Whether you’re looking to:

• Reformulate an existing product,
• Develop a new clean-label version, or
• Find a co-manufacturer that understands natural color integration,

we can connect you with the right partner quickly and confidently.

Our platform matches food and beverage brands with trusted production and formulation partners based on product type, capability, certifications, and more. We cut the search time down so you can focus on what matters—getting compliant, staying delicious, and keeping your brand growing.

‍

Credit to Alex Brewer, Director of Regulatory Affairs at McCormick, for expert insights and advice.

The post Synthetic Color Bans Are Coming: What CPG Brands Need to Know and Do Now appeared first on PartnerSlate.

“We’ve done over a million dollars in less than a year with business they referred!… The quality of matches we receive is exceptional, ensuring that we connect with the right partners who align with our business goals.”

The Challenge

World Wide Gourmet Foods Inc was wasting too much time on unqualified leads using other platforms

As a tech industry veteran, Jack Praino, President & CEO of World Wide Gourmet Foods Inc, was no stranger to using innovative platforms to improve his lead generation. He worked with brokers and companies claiming to provide quality leads, and invested thousands in platforms that require up front payments promising to revolutionize his co-manufacturing partnerships, which only burned him, turning out to be “all hat and no cowboy.”

That’s why PartnerSlate stood out – their success was fully dependent on his. PartnerSlate’s business model is built to be aligned with their co-man network, only charging co-mans a small fee when they actually reach production with a new client. With no up-front costs and a team that had been deeply involved in the co-man and CPG community for years, Praino knew he had struck gold.

“One of the most significant benefits has been the time saved vetting leads. PartnerSlate’s thorough screening process means we can focus our efforts on developing relationships rather than spending hours filtering through potential contacts.“

The Stats

AI-matching paired with expert guidance delivers curated pre-qualified and vetted brand project leads

When hundreds of leads come in from all sources every month, qualifying and vetting can be a full time job for many co-mans. PartnerSlate cuts that to a fraction of the time and effort. Here’s what it looked like for Praino:

1. Average of 12 custom project recommendations per month

It takes a lot to determine if a brand is a good fit. That’s why every brand is interviewed by the PartnerSlate team and spends approximately an hour nailing down the project listing so only the most compatible co-mans are alerted. Utilizing AI to facilitate the matching process means the Marketplace can 100x what brokers provide while maintaining broker-level quality matches.

2. 100+ brand connections made

While not every brand connection results in production, by PartnerSlate filtering out the noise Praino only spoke with brands he was already interested in and compatible with. The highly detailed project listings gave him everything he needed to know and helped him make educated decisions in seconds. His likelihood of striking gold with a PartnerSlate lead was much higher than with any other source or platform.

3. $1M+ in new revenue

“Their commission is 모든 페니 가치 and it is less than we pay brokers.” Less time and energy to determine a fit meant Praino could act quickly for the right brands and get in when they needed his services most. Timing is everything, and Praino was suddenly connecting with brands who knew exactly what they needed and had POs in hand driving their actions.

“The support and assistance from the PartnerSlate team have been outstanding. They are always available to help and provide valuable insights, making our experience even more seamless.“

The Outcome

World Wide Gourmet has grown their business and expanded their network beyond what any other service has provided.

“Additionally, partnering with PartnerSlate has opened up numerous opportunities for us, expanding our network and enhancing our business growth.” Praino not only has benefited from reducing his onboarding efforts to land high quality, growing clients, he has also joined the PartnerSlate team at their Co-Packer Pavilions at Supply Side West and IFT First, getting to network with other co-mans, suppliers, and industry experts. PartnerSlate’s deep connections in the industry spanning years opens up doors to genuine connections and realized business opportunities.

“Their platform is a vital tool in our strategy, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking to optimize their partnership efforts. Thank you, PartnerSlate, for making such a positive impact on our business!“

Explore how PartnerSlate can help your team at partnerslate.com.

The post How World Wide Gourmet Foods grew their co-man business by $1M+ with PartnerSlate appeared first on PartnerSlate.

“PartnerSlate was a huge help when we found ourselves searching for a new partner for upcoming retail distribution.”

Challenge

Finding a co-manufacturer for an urgent PO was a near impossible task for the DEUX team.

With a PO from Sprouts in hand, Kristina, VP of Operations, and her team were running into the problem that most scaling brands face: finding a co-manufacturer is time consuming and costly. Their Better-For-You donut line was taking off and they needed a new production partner to fill the order ASAP or face losing the deal. A process that typically takes between 6-12 months had to be cut to weeks.

Luckily, Kristina found PartnerSlate and after a quick conversation with co-founder, Matt Suggs, saw the potential it held for her brand.

“The platform streamlines the process of early conversations (NDA, product information etc.) and saved us a huge amount of time by avoiding repetition and matching us with partners that already had the capabilities we were looking for. Not to mention the quality level and expertise of the co-manufacturers is incredible.“

Solution

PartnerSlate’s Marketplace expedited the search process and delivered high quality and interested partners in days.

After a call with the PartnerSlate team, DEUX’s needs were carefully converted into a project listing and reviewed by Antonella, our lead Brand Matching Advisor, for anonymity and accuracy.

1. Matching-AI alerted the top 20 co-manufacturers within seconds

Rather than relying on directories or web searches, the project listing was cross-compared with thousands of co-man profiles in our up-to-date database. The best co-mans for the job were notified of the new project within seconds of it being published anonymously, putting the ball in their court.

2. Within a week, 4 co-mans had reached out

With such a thorough listing, the co-mans knew exactly what the brand needed and could confidently request to connect knowing they were top candidates. Kristina got to view their profiles of capabilities and services before accepting their connection requests, giving her the final say about when to release her brand’s identity. Rather than spending weeks or months searching or hiring brokers, interested manufacturers were delivered right to her.

3. Within one month, DEUX had a new production partner confirmed

PartnerSlate’s strength doesn’t just lie in our AI-driven matching system, but our deep relationships in the industry. The DEUX project listing was thorough and accurate to their needs, and their timeline was clear. Knowing this going into the very first conversation, the potential manufacturing partners knew how to structure the conversation for the best results for them both. The PartnerSlate team was there to smooth along the process, ensure transparency on both sides, and follow up to make sure no miscommunications sidetracked their progress.

Results

DEUX reached production in 3 months to fill their Sprouts order and launch a new partnership.

The high-quality and fast results from the Marketplace allowed DEUX to meet their Sprouts order and ship to more than 400 new retail locations. DEUX continues to grow with that producer today, scaling their volumes to dominate their niche with consistently delicious treats.

“We are very happy with the co-manufacturers we have connected with through this (PartnerSlate’s) platform and cannot recommend it enough!“

Explore how PartnerSlate can help your team at partnerslate.com.

The post How DEUX Found a New Co-Man in 1 Month and Saved Their Sprouts Launch Using PartnerSlate appeared first on PartnerSlate.

“So I really want to start a food business, but is it necessary to raise outside capital? Where do I even start? When is the right time to start talking to investors?”

Unfortunately, CPG businesses are typically very capital intensive. Especially if you are experiencing strong growth! Even if you are cutting costs by outsourcing different parts of the business, such as working with a co-packer for production. You can still only grow as fast as you can make your product. And producing your product costs money.

So while the answer to the question is no, it’s not absolutely necessary to take on investors to be successful, it is going to make things a lot easier to have the necessary cash needed to fuel the strong growth you’re going to hopefully achieve.

Now, does that mean you are ready to go talk to the big VC’s in the CPG space? Probably not just yet. Unlike the tech world where you can pitch investors on simply an idea, many of the venture capitalists in CPG want you to have a product in the market with some proof of sales and happy customers before they even entertain the idea of an investment.

So now we are faced with the chicken and the egg problem. You need investors to build your business, but you can’t get investors without sales. So how do you get those initial dollars to produce your product so you can start selling and get customer feedback. This is where the real hustle comes in!

Here are a few good ways to find initial funding to get started with your business:

• Savings: Well it is your passion right? What are savings for 🙂
• Food Incubators and Accelerator Programs: There are a lot of great incubators and accelerator programs popping up around the country that can offer everything from commercial kitchen space, mentorship and even investment to help you get started. Some include: Union Kitchen DC, Food-X, Chobani Incubator, SKU, Land O’Lakes Dairy Accelerator
• Borrowing money: bank loans, credit cards or an SBA loan – This can be a good way to get cash quick without giving up equity. However, bank loans can be tough to get approved, as food startups are apparently pretty risky (who thought?) SBA Loans can be a great option. You can also use credit cards for those initial expenses to get your business going.
• Crowdfunding: Many entrepreneurs have turned to crowdfunding to raise investment for their startups. And some awesome companies got their start this way. There are different types of crowdfunding, everything from offering equity in your company to simply offering gifts in exchange for small contributions. PieShell is great crowdfunding site focusing on the F&B industry. Not only does crowdfunding help you raise funds, but it also can be a good way to get thousands of brand ambassadors that now know about your brand and are excited for your product to hit the market. Other crowdfunding sites include CircleUp which also focuses on CPG, kickstarter and Indigogo.

Okay, now that you have money to spend, it’s GO TIME! Find a manufacturing partner or commercial kitchen to get your product made and get out to get those initial sales and customer feedback, so when it’s time to push it to the next level, you have the right story to tell investors.

When talking to investors it’s super important that you know everything there is to know about your business. That includes the ins and outs of your product, the market landscape and competition, your target market, and most importantly the numbers! Be sure that you have well thought out forecasts and can explain every last number. Maybe your margins aren’t great to start, but make sure you have a plan in place to improve them with future growth. If you aren’t a numbers person (which many of us aren’t!) get someone that can help. It’s worth it!

Steven Vigilante from CircleUp shared some insights on the Food Startups Podcast about raising investor money: 

• Work with your finance team to determine how much you actually need. It’s not always the best idea to take as much money as possible. You give away a lot of equity in these early rounds and so be mindful of raising only as much as you need.
  
• Raise before you think you need to. Don’t let yourself get in a hard spot with limited runway. Investors will smell blood in the water! You have the most control over your investment round when you have the option to walk away.
  
• Be prepared to find the best partner for your business. That might be an investor that hands over cash and then leaves you alone to run your business. But more often, its a strategic partner that is much more than just an investor. Having a strategic investor onboard can really help you with important industry introductions, future fundraising and they can act as an experienced advisor that is there to help you make your business a success.

Also, it is important to remember that at the end of the day, above product, market opportunity, sales numbers and everything else, what these investors are most interested in, is YOU – the founder. They are investing in your passion, resilience, resourcefulness and determination to make your dream a reality. So keep that in mind when pitching investors. Passion is contagious!

(Source: blog.partnerslate.com)

The post Food Startup Funding: Do you need investors to build a successful food or beverage business? appeared first on PartnerSlate.

The Significance of Food Labels in Making Informed Choices

Food labels serve as a vital communication tool between producers and consumers. They offer essential information regarding the contents, production methods, and origin of food products. In an era where health consciousness and dietary restrictions are on the rise, labels empower consumers to make choices aligned with their values and needs. For producers, clear and accurate labeling is not just a regulatory requirement but a means to differentiate their products in a competitive marketplace. Labels like “Organic” or “Non-GMO” can significantly influence purchasing decisions, reflecting a product’s quality and safety standards.

The Role of Certifications in Ensuring Product Quality and Safety

Certifications go beyond basic labeling by providing a verified assurance of a product’s compliance with specific standards. These standards can relate to environmental sustainability, ethical practices, and health safety. For instance, the “Organic” certification implies adherence to stringent guidelines on pesticide use and farming practices. Similarly, “Non-GMO” products are verified to be free from genetically modified organisms, addressing consumer concerns about genetic engineering in food production.

Halal and Kosher certifications cater to specific dietary laws in Islam and Judaism, respectively. These certifications not only facilitate religious observance but also signify a level of product scrutiny that appeals to broader consumer bases valuing purity and ethical processing.

Food Certifications & Labeling

Organic

There are a number of different regulatory bodies that can certify something as organic. One of the most common in the US is the USDA. There are 3 different levels of Organic certification:

1. “100% Organic”: all ingredients are organic
2. “Organic”: at least 95% of ingredients are organic (these products often include trace amounts of non-organic oils or
3. “Made with organic ingredients”: at least 70% of ingredients are organic. They may not use the USDA Organic seal (t

In order to produce a certified organic product, a manufacturer must meet the organic certification requirements set by a recognized certification body, such as the USDA Organic or the EU Organic standards. These requirements include using organic ingredients and following specific production and handling practices. The certification process involves inspections, documentation, and compliance with the defined organic standards. So while a manufacturer can produce organic products without being certified, they cannot label or advertise their products as organic without the proper certification.

Understanding the distinctions between “100% Organic,” “Organic,” and “Made with Organic Ingredients” labels is crucial when navigating the world of organic products, especially in the context of the stringent standards and certifications required for organic agriculture and production. Each of these labels carries significant meaning regarding the composition and certification of organic products, reflecting their adherence to established organic standards set by recognized certification bodies like the USDA Organic in the United States or the EU Organic standards in Europe.

100% Organic: The Pinnacle of Organic Integrity

Products labeled as “100% Organic” represent the pinnacle of organic integrity. This designation is reserved for products that contain exclusively organic ingredients and processing aids, excluding water and salt. This label indicates that the product has been produced and processed under the most stringent organic practices, without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or irradiation. For manufacturers, achieving the “100% Organic” label requires a comprehensive commitment to maintaining organic practices across the entire production chain, from the farm to the final product. This commitment is verified through rigorous inspections and compliance checks by certifying agencies, ensuring that every component of the product meets the highest organic standards.

Organic: High Organic Content with Minimal Concessions

Products simply labeled as “Organic” must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, with the remaining 5% allowed to be non-organic only if certain approved substances are not available in organic form. This category allows for a slight concession in terms of non-organic content, provided these elements are on a pre-approved list of additives and processing aids that meet specific criteria for health, safety, and minimal environmental impact. The “Organic” label still signifies a high level of compliance with organic standards, embodying the principles of sustainable and ethical production practices. The rigorous certification process for these products ensures that the majority of their components are organically sourced, with only minor exceptions allowed under strict conditions.

Made with Organic Ingredients: Significant Organic Presence

The “Made with Organic Ingredients” label is applied to products that contain at least 70% organic ingredients, with the remaining 30% subject to strict restrictions regarding the use of GMOs and non-organic substances. While these products contain a significant proportion of organic components, they cannot display the USDA Organic seal or similar certifications due to the higher percentage of non-organic content. This category offers consumers a product with a substantial organic composition, while also providing manufacturers with some flexibility in sourcing ingredients. The certification process for these products, while less stringent than the “100% Organic” or “Organic” categories, still demands rigorous adherence to organic practices for the majority of the product’s composition.

For further reading on USDA Organic certification, here are some links:

• Understanding the Basics
• “Do I Need to be Certified Organic?”
• Organic Labeling

Non-GMO

Non-GMO certification guarantees that a product does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Manufacturers must undergo testing and verification by an accredited organization, such as the Non-GMO Project. They must provide documentation demonstrating that their ingredients and production processes comply with the non-GMO standards.

The term Non-GMO is often misleading overall though, as the USDA’s definition of GMO is “An organism produced through genetic engineering”, which is vague enough to include common practices as cross breeding and selective breeding, which farms have done since they started farming. Additionally, the USDA has not defined what a “Non-GMO” product is.

A manufacturer must be certified by a Non-GMO certification organization (such has the Non-GMO Project) in order to label a food as Non-GMO.

USDA Organic vs. Non-GMO

USDA Organic Certification

The USDA Organic certification is a label that indicates the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods. These methods integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Organic certification requires adherence to certain standards:

Synthetic Chemicals: The use of synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering is prohibited in organic production.

Natural Resources: Organic farming practices must protect natural resources, avoid soil erosion, and conserve water.

Animal Welfare: Livestock must be raised in a manner that accommodates their health and natural behavior, including access to the outdoors.

Non-GMO Certification

Non-GMO stands for Non-Genetically Modified Organism. The Non-GMO Project, a nonprofit organization, offers a third-party Non-GMO Verification Program. This label assures that a product has been produced according to consensus-based best practices for GMO avoidance, including testing of risk ingredients. The Non-GMO label focuses specifically on the genetic makeup of the plants or animals involved:

Genetic Engineering: The key aspect of Non-GMO certification is the absence of genetic engineering or genetically modified organisms in the production process.

Testing: Products are tested to ensure they meet the set threshold for GMO presence, which is typically below 0.9% for most products.

Kosher

Kosher certification ensures that food products meet Jewish dietary laws and are prepared according to specific rituals.

Manufacturers must comply with the requirements of a kosher certification agency, such as the Orthodox Union (OU) or the Kosher Supervision of America (KSA). This involves ingredient scrutiny, facility inspections, and regular supervision by a kosher authority.

A manufacturer must be certified by a Kosher certification agency in order to label a food as Kosher. This is a fairly easy process, so if you require a Kosher certification and your co-man doesn’t currently have it, it might be something they are willing to obtain.

The five largest Kosher certifying bodies, known as the “Big Five,” include:

• OU Kosher
• OK Kosher
• KOF-K
• Star-K
• CRC

These certify more than 80% of US Kosher Foods

Kosher: Understanding Its Significance and Certification

Kosher foods adhere to the Jewish dietary laws known as kashrut, which detail what foods can be consumed and how they must be prepared. The word “kosher” itself means “fit” or “appropriate,” indicating that the food meets the dietary standards set forth by these laws. These laws are comprehensive, covering aspects from the types of animals that can be eaten to the way they must be slaughtered and processed.

The Basics of Kosher

Kosher dietary laws are divided into three main categories: meat (fleishig), dairy (milchig), and pareve (neither meat nor dairy). Certain animals are considered inherently non-kosher, such as pigs and shellfish. Kosher mammals and birds must be slaughtered in a specific manner known as shechita, and the blood must be thoroughly removed since consuming blood is forbidden.

Dairy and meat products cannot be mixed, and this separation extends to the utensils and equipment used to prepare and consume these foods. Pareve foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains, can be eaten with either meat or dairy products, provided they haven’t been processed with equipment used for non-kosher foods or those containing meat or dairy.

The Importance of Kosher Certification

Kosher certification is a critical aspect for food manufacturers and consumers alike. It serves as a guarantee that the products comply with kashrut. The demand for kosher-certified products extends beyond the Jewish community to include people who view kosher certification as an indicator of quality, safety, and adherence to certain dietary or ethical standards. This broader consumer base includes vegetarians, those with lactose intolerance, and individuals concerned with humane animal treatment.

Kosher certification agencies, such as the Orthodox Union (OU), Star-K, and OK Kosher Certification, play a significant role in this process. They inspect food manufacturing facilities and review ingredients, production processes, and equipment to ensure compliance with kosher laws. Once a product is certified, it can display the certifying agency’s symbol, which aids consumers in identifying kosher products easily.

Kosher and Other Certifications

For businesses, obtaining kosher certification can be strategically combined with other certifications, such as organic, non-GMO, or gluten-free, to meet a wider range of consumer demands. Agencies like NSF International offer joint auditing programs, allowing products to achieve multiple certifications simultaneously, which can save time and reduce inspection costs. This approach not only appeals to those strictly observing kashrut but also to consumers interested in organic or health-conscious diets, showcasing the versatility and comprehensive nature of kosher certification.

Halal

Halal certification indicates that food products comply with Islamic dietary laws and are permissible for consumption by Muslims.

A manufacturer must be certified by a Halal certification agency in order to label a food as Halal. This process is a bit more difficult than Kosher, so if you require a Halal certification, you should look for a manufacturer who already is certified Halal.

Halal: Principles and Global Impact

Halal, an Arabic term meaning “permissible,” refers to what is allowed under Islamic law. In the context of food, halal standards dictate what Muslims can eat and how food must be prepared. The criteria for halal are derived from the Quran and the Hadiths, covering a wide range of food items and preparation methods.

Halal Food Guidelines

The halal dietary laws primarily focus on meat and animal by-products. Animals must be healthy at the time of slaughter, and the act must be performed by a Muslim, who invokes the name of Allah during the process. This method of slaughter is known as Zabiha, and it ensures the humane treatment of the animal, with swift and precise cutting to minimize suffering.

Halal laws also prohibit the consumption of certain substances, such as alcohol and pork, and any products derived from non-halal animals. Foods and drinks containing alcohol or intoxicating substances are also considered non-halal.

The Role of Halal Certification

Halal certification is vital for ensuring that food products meet Islamic dietary laws, providing Muslim consumers with the assurance they need to make informed dietary choices. Halal certification bodies assess food products, ingredients, and manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with halal standards.

This certification is particularly important in non-Muslim countries, where halal food might not be as readily available or identifiable. The presence of a halal certification mark on food packaging helps Muslim consumers to quickly and confidently identify products that meet their dietary restrictions.

Halal Certification’s Global Reach

The demand for halal-certified products has grown significantly, reflecting the increasing global Muslim population and the rising awareness of halal food among non-Muslim consumers who associate it with ethical and health considerations. The halal food market has expanded beyond traditional meat products to include a wide range of grocery items, health supplements, and even cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, illustrating the comprehensive nature of halal certification.

Halal certification agencies operate worldwide, ensuring that products meet the strict standards required for halal designation. This global network of certification bodies facilitates the international trade of halal products, contributing to the growth of the halal food industry and promoting cross-cultural understanding and respect for Islamic dietary laws.

FairTrade Labeling: Principles and Practices

FairTrade labeling represents a system designed to offer better deals and improved terms of trade for farmers and workers in developing countries. The FairTrade Mark, recognized globally, is a symbol of ethical sourcing, ensuring products meet a set of social, economic, and environmental standards. This system supports nearly 2 million farmers around the world by providing them with higher pay, better working conditions, and improved sustainability practices.

Not all products can carry the FairTrade certification. The international FairTrade system focuses on certifying ingredients from the Global South, such as cocoa, bananas, and coffee, which are typically grown in these regions. This focus aims at ensuring justice for the most vulnerable workers around the globe.

Overview of FairTrade Principles and Practices

FairTrade certification revolves around a holistic blend of criteria, incorporating social, economic, and environmental standards. These standards include core requirements and development goals aimed at bringing about positive change for producers and their communities. The FairTrade Standards are designed to support the sustainable development of small producer organizations and agricultural workers in developing countries.

The Impact of FairTrade on Farmers and Global Trade

The impact of FairTrade on farmers and the broader context of global trade is significant. By adhering to FairTrade standards, producers receive a FairTrade Minimum Price and a FairTrade Premium, which are intended to cover the sustainable cost of production and allow for investment in community projects, respectively. This system empowers farmers and workers by providing them with more control over their lives and decisions that affect their communities.

Moreover, FairTrade certification helps to raise awareness among consumers about the need for ethical purchasing decisions and the importance of supporting fair and sustainable practices in the global trade system. As a result, products carrying the FairTrade Mark often appeal to a broad audience, extending beyond the typical consumer base to include those who are concerned with ethical and sustainable practices in agriculture and trade.

Certified Naturally Grown: Principles and Practices

Certified Naturally Grown (CNG) is a grassroots alternative to the USDA Organic certification, tailored for small-scale, direct-market farmers and beekeepers who employ natural practices to grow food and raise livestock. CNG is built on the foundation of peer inspections, transparency, and direct relationships between farmers and consumers. This model emphasizes community and connection, fostering a support network among farmers who are committed to sustainable agricultural practices.

Understanding the Principles Behind Certified Naturally Grown

The principles of Certified Naturally Grown are deeply rooted in the organic movement, emphasizing soil health, ecological balance, and biodiversity. CNG standards prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, antibiotics, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The program is designed to be accessible and affordable, ensuring that small-scale producers can achieve and showcase their commitment to eco-friendly practices without the prohibitive costs and paperwork associated with larger certification bodies.

CNG’s approach is unique in that it relies on a participatory guarantee system (PGS), where inspections are carried out by other farmers, creating a community of practice and mutual support. This peer-review process encourages the sharing of knowledge and experiences, strengthening the local farming community and ensuring adherence to organic principles without the formalities of third-party certification.

How CNG Supports Sustainable and Local Agriculture

Certified Naturally Grown supports sustainable and local agriculture by providing a credible and transparent assurance to consumers about how their food is grown. CNG farms often sell their produce directly to consumers through farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, and local food cooperatives, which helps to keep the food system local and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport.

By opting for CNG certification, farmers commit to practices that protect the environment, conserve biodiversity, and sustain the health of the soil. This certification enables consumers to make informed choices, supporting a food system that is good for the planet and the people. It also provides farmers with a platform to distinguish their products in the market, appealing to consumers who value environmentally friendly and ethically produced food.

CNG’s emphasis on community-based certification and support not only helps in maintaining high standards of organic farming but also fosters a sense of solidarity among small-scale farmers. This collective approach contributes to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system, where knowledge, resources, and best practices are shared for the common good of the community and the environment.

Meaningless Labels

Additionally, there are a number of labels that don’t mean anything. They are not regulated or defined by the FDA or USDA, so are technically meaningless and are more often used as marketing. Manufacturers must meet the criteria of a halal certification authority, such as the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA) or a local halal certifying organization. This involves ingredient verification, facility inspections, and adherence to halal production processes.

There are also misleading labels that technically have a definition, but it doesn’t mean what consumers perceive it.

1. “Natural” – The FDA has considered the term “natural” to mean that nothing artificial or synthetic (including all color additives regardless of source) has been included in, or has been added to, a food that would not normally be expected to be in that food. However, this policy was not intended to address food production methods, such as the use of pesticides, nor did it explicitly address food processing or manufacturing methods, such as thermal technologies, pasteurization, or irradiation. The FDA also did not consider whether the term “natural” should describe any nutritional or other health benefit. (Source: FDA)
2. “Free-range” – this means the animal was allowed access to the outdoors. Unfortunately, this claim doesn’t specify for how long or even if the animal actually ever went outside, and often “free-range” chickens are packed in so tightly that even if they do have access to the outdoors, they can’t move.
3. “Farm-raised” – this is a meaningless label because all chickens are raised on farms, therefore any chicken or egg could be labelled as “farm-raised”

Frequent Questions

What Does “UD” Mean on Food?

“UD” on food packaging stands for “Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America” and indicates that the product is kosher. The “D” often indicates that the product is dairy or has been processed on equipment also used for dairy products. This certification assures consumers that the product complies with a strict policy of kosher food laws, including cleanliness, purity, and quality.

What is the Difference Between Kosher and “U”?

The difference between kosher and “U” lies in the certification symbol used on food products. The “U” inside a circle, known as the “OU” symbol, represents the Orthodox Union, one of the largest kosher certification agencies in the world. When a product is marked with this symbol, it means it has been certified as kosher by the Orthodox Union. Kosher, more broadly, refers to foods that comply with traditional Jewish dietary laws.

What is Kosher vs. Halal?

Kosher and halal are terms that refer to the dietary laws observed in Judaism and Islam, respectively. While both sets of dietary laws dictate permissible foods and the proper way of slaughtering animals, there are differences in the specifics. For example, kosher law prohibits the consumption of shellfish and requires the separation of meat and dairy products, while halal law does not have such restrictions. Halal also specifically prohibits alcohol, whereas kosher law allows it in moderation and as long as it adheres to kosher guidelines.

What Does the Organic Label Mean?

The organic label indicates that the product has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Organic certification requires that farmers and processors comply with a set of federal guidelines, which include restrictions on the use of pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers.

What Does Non-GMO Mean?

Non-GMO means that a product does not contain genetically modified organisms. GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering. Non-GMO products are preferred by some consumers who are concerned about the potential environmental and health impacts of genetically modified foods. Products that are Non-GMO Project Verified have been tested and confirmed to meet the rigorous standards for GMO avoidance set by the Non-GMO Project, an independent organization.

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