Cooking Up Innovation

In this episode, I sit down with Nina Penning, the founder of GoMatcha, to explore how a personal love for matcha sparked a bold leap into the beverage industry. From launching her brand to creating a ready-to-drink matcha latte, Nina shares the real behind-the-scenes of building a product that’s as meaningful as it is delicious. Topics: From Idea to Infusion – How Nina turned her passion for matc...

In this episode I talk to Lars Gierveld who is the founder of Kumasi, a drink made from the pulp of the cacao fruit that would otherwise be discarded as a by product of chocolate production. Kumasi is about so much more than product innovation and their story showcases how there is still space for mission-led businesses to thrive within FMCG. Topics: ​Introduction to Lars ​The making of the docume...

In this episode I talk to Steven van Middelem who is the founder of FHIRST, a pioneering living soda with pre and probiotics. FHIRST is a true example of how science and taste have come together to create a product that is both delicious and improves your gut and immune health. Topics: Stevens’ career background Creating the FHIRST soda Why gut health is so popular Why kombucha isn't necessari...

In this episode I talk to Lydia and Dave, owners of The Tofoo Co, who have been on a mission to turn tofu from drab to fab. The Tofoo Co creates one of the best selling tofus in the UK, using an age old method established by it’s original owner in 1999. Their unique journey into business ownership shows how you can turn a pre-existing business into a national success when you combine quality produ...

In this episode I talk to Alex Brassill, the co-founder of Jnck Bakery who are creating indulgent freshly baked goods that carry zero guilt. Jnck Bakery are fusing age-old baking techniques with cutting-edge technology to create a cookie that has 90% less sugar than your average retail product, 10g of fibre and 8g of protein but still provides all the same comfort. Topics: From sports nutrition to...

In this episode I talk to Will Little, the managing director of Little’s Coffee, who are seeking to disrupt supermarket shelves with their flavoured coffee. Their product development journey explains why there are very few disruptor brands in the monopoly that is the instant coffee market, and why doing less, but better, is a winning strategy for a strong product line. Topics: California to Finlan...

In this episode I talk to Max Kohn, one of the three brothers behind The Jolly Hog, a staple brand on UK retail shelves with their British, award-winning meat products. Their product development journey showcases how instinct, taste and a strong core identity can lay the foundations for a successful food business. Topics: How The Jolly Hog came to be: from rugby to retail The sausage retail space...

Do you love food? Are you curious about how food products are made? Do you ever wonder what your favourite food brands will launch next? Those are all questions we'll be exploring on Cooking Up Innovation. Stay tuned and stay curious.