Founded in 2021, Luya Foods is a Bern-based FoodTech startup that transforms the nutrient-rich soy pulp okara, a waste stream from soy milk and tofu production, into plant-based meat substitutes. Using an IP-protected natural fermentation process with minimal processing steps, the company produces products like nuggets, burger patties and "Geschnetzeltes." Manufacturing takes place in a former chocolate factory in Bern-Bümpliz. Luya’s range is already sold through its own online shop as well as Swiss retailers Migros, Coop and Farmy, and it features on menus at Tibits, hospital canteens and other food-service outlets. Co-founders Flavio Hagenbuch, Tobias Kistler and Nina Schaller claim okara’s abundant supply will help the company remain price-competitive. The newly raised funds will be directed toward reaching break-even in Switzerland and preparing for European Union expansion. To support this next phase, the firm added former Lindt & Sprüngli and Mars executive Uwe Sommer to its board alongside investor Lisa Schmidheiny.

Total raised

$6M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series A

Latest activity

Sep 2024