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Generational Gastronomy: Understanding Unique Eating Habits This article is part of a series of short blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here, we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. In this piece, we delve into the various generations: Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964), Gen X (born between 1965 and 1980), Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996), and Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012). What makes their eating behavior unique? And what trends and similarities emerge? Health: A Cultural Shift Health is a universal value, but the way different generations approach it varies significantly. For Baby Boomers healthy eating is central, especially because they are becoming older and are developing age-related ailments. Therefore, they see food as a way to improve their quality of life and stay healthy for longer. When looking at the advantages Baby Boomers want to gain from food, these mostly relate to reducing the risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer. In order to achieve this, the Baby Boomers in are likely to focus on natural foods and are motivated to practice what they preach in terms of maintaining a healthy diet. While Gen X also sees healthy eating as central and wants to improve their quality of life to stay healthy longer, Gen X’s approach is slightly different and is focused on having a healthy weight and following weight loss diets more than other generations. In contrast, Millennials and Gen Z are more aware of a holistic approach to health, where mental health is seen as equally important as physical health, which can for example be explained by the fact that these two younger generations report to experience more stress and mental health issues than Gen X and Baby Boomers. In practice, this means that Millennials and Gen Z are becoming more aware of the link of e.g. sugary foods to depression or of caffeine excesses to anxiety, thus leading them to avoid such foods. Furthermore, their holistic view also means that a big part of Millennials and Gen Z believe that a healthy diet is about more than calorie counting and following restricting diets. For example, many people within these generations believe that calorie counts on food packaging can have a bad effect on mental health. Though Millennials and Gen Z thus view health as having both a physical and mental component, there are also some differences in their attitudes towards food. Millennials on one hand, prefer fresh and unprocessed foods and are the biggest buyers of fortified foods, so foods with added vitamins and minerals. For Gen Z, one of the most important benefits they seek from food is to improve their sleep and downtime. Dining Out: The Evolution of Dining Experiences The restaurant landscape is undergoing a transformation driven by the preferences of different generations. While Baby Boomers and Gen X prefer rare but luxurious dinners with more traditional tastes and dining concepts, with gen X sometimes enjoying personalized twists to well-known meals. Millennials and Gen Z focus more on the experience and social aspect. Convenience is also paramount for these two generations. Gen Z and Millennials are aptly dubbed the convenience generations, and this concept aligns well with their dining preferences: they seek accessible moments of enjoyment that fit their busy lifestyles. They spend significantly more on dining out than older generations, but simultaneously have a smaller disposable income. This explains the growing popularity of affordable and informal dining establishments among Millennials and Gen Z. Engagement: Food for Thought An notable trend among Millennials and Gen Z specifically, is their increasing engagement with the societal impact of food. While all generations indicate that they consider this important, Millennials and Gen Z clearly place the most value on this. For Gen Z, food even is a way to express themselves; the majority says that the food they consume is indicative of who they are and that they can use food to show their identity and beliefs. They value transparency, sustainability, and social responsibility in the brands they support and want to know their food choices have a positive impact on the world around them. This also greatly influences the loyalty they feel towards a brand, as a large portion of these two generations expresses willingness to pay more for a company that makes a positive impact. Their loyalty directly translates to the problems Millennials and Gen Z view in the world and their relationship towards food. Gen Z for example, is most worried about the environment and climate change, followed by Millennials. In this case, it is interesting that Millennials have more positive ideas towards the impact they can make, as they are most likely to believe that their food choices have an impact on the environment. Another slight difference between Millennials and Gen Z is that Millennials have an additional preference for smaller brands, while Gen Z supports brands that reciprocate their personal values, regardless of size. Digital savviness: Finding Balance in Food Choices Digital culture plays an increasingly large role in eating behavior, which is especially the case among Millennials and Gen Z: from restaurant reviews to nutritional information to new recipes, they use social media both to gain and share food-related information, like new recipes from different cultures to sharing pictures of their food online. Gen Z mostly turns to social media like Instagram and TikTok to gain advice on for example healthy eating, as they feel like they lack information from the government, educators and the food industry. Millennials on the other hand also use social media, but tend to put more trust in online apps and tools to help them improve their diet and physical wellbeing. A downside of social media and the constant influx of information is that Gen Z in particular, can feel overwhelmed, also when it comes to food. They want to consume food that looks good on pictures, while also being sustainable, ethical and socially conscious and if possible healthy. This leads to people in this generation often struggling to make, what they feel, is the right choice. Companies that can provide clarity in this regard, will therefore be ahead with Gen Z. Each Generation Has a Unique Need These food trends demonstrate how the Food & Agri sector is adapting to the changing preferences and values of different generations. It's clear that there's no one-size-fits-all approach; successful companies will need to adjust to the unique needs of each generation, whether it's related to health or engagement and whether it is inside the house, or out (and about).
15 march 2024
Toward Sustainable Nutrition: Star Food founder Wim Soetendaal‘s on mealworms as food This article is part of a series of LinkedIn interviews by the Anders Invest Food & Agri team. Here, we take a look at the people and activities within our portfolio companies. In this interview, we talk to Wim Soetendaal, the founder and CEO of Star Food. Star Food cultivates various insects, originally for fishing and animal feed, but now also for human consumption. Star Food has a facility in Hungary where mealworms are cultivated and processed for use in food. Early years and transition to human consumption Wim Soetendaal started breeding worms for fishing in 1985, and two years later, mealworms, grasshoppers, and crickets were added. This led to the establishment of Star Food, a company specializing in insect cultivation for animal feed, but which is now also taking steps to make insects suitable for human consumption. In the beginning, Wim had to figure out a lot about insect breeding himself: "I observed a lot: what does an insect do, and why does it behave differently today than tomorrow? I made it my own and optimized it – I still enjoy doing this. Automating and developing the cultivation process is still my favorite thing to do." The shift to human consumption is crucial, given the irreversible protein transition and the search for sustainable and healthy protein sources for both humans and animals. "Insects are one of the most sustainable protein sources available and are also healthy," says Wim. He further explains, "For example, you need much more land, feed, and water for a cow than for these insects. This way, we can breed more kilograms of insects per square meter than we can keep cows." Additionally, mealworms are nutritious and contain all the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Changing market Wim observes rapid changes in the mealworm market: "The development is fast: just like with chickens, you started small in the past, and now you have mega farms. It's the same with insects; it has become more of a product and has thus been scaled up." The key for the future will be producing mealworms at the right cost and with good quality. The product must be consistent in nutritional value and contain enough protein. It is also important to connect consumers to the product, with Wim noting that the fear of eating insects in the West is often psychological. The first step is to market mealworms as an ingredient rather than as a whole insect. This way, various types of food can be created, from burgers to shakes and sports drinks. An important addition that Wim emphasizes is the enrichment of protein: "The processing of mealworms is crucial. Originally, these insects have about 35% protein. Through processing, we enrich this to 80%, making it equivalent to existing protein sources like milk protein." Legislation and future outlook Regarding the processing of mealworms for human consumption, there are several hurdles to overcome, especially with regulations and the issuance of so-called Novel Food Dossiers. This process is slow and consumes a lot of money and time. As a result, producers and processors are hesitant to make large investments due to the risk of a dossier not being approved or legislation changing. Nevertheless, Star Food is making good progress for the future: "At our location in Hungary, mealworms are cultivated on a large scale, already about 15 tons per week. We are working to further improve these processes and explore possible collaborations," explains Wim. "It is certain that insects will play a significant role in food and feed." When asked if Wim expects to witness this himself, he confidently responds "Yes, for sure!"
12 january 2024
Net-Zero Emissions: Driving Change in Food & Agri This article is part of a series of short LinkedIn blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here, we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. Considering reducing your carb intake? While some individuals vouch for its effectiveness, others view it as a passing trend in nutrition. In contrast, reducing carbon emissions is a shared objective that unites the global food system. Unless we minimize CO2, methane, and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, sea levels will rise, and the likelihood of catastrophic weather events will increase, impacting the food and agricultural industry.This article will examine the carbon market and will focus on Origin & Amsterdam, a portfolio company of ours, known for its sustainable sourcing and trading. Food plays a crucial role in combating climate change, encompassing factors such as dietary choices, agricultural practices, and the supply chain that connects producers to consumers. Achieving the 1.5-degree target necessitates a reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions, with a goal of reaching a 50 per cent reduction from current levels by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2050. The framework to achieve these global targets in the food and agricultural industry is outlined in initiatives like the Green Deal. Consequently, the number of companies committed to reaching net-zero emissions has surged globally, with those taking action on such corporate targets quadrupling since 2020—from approximately 1,000 in 2020 to more than 4,000 in January 2023. In this transition towards a net-zero economy, the role of carbon offsetting will be crucial. The carbon market can take two different but not mutually exclusive paths: a compliance carbon market and a voluntary carbon market. In the European Union, the compliance carbon market operates under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), a cap-and-trade system designed to limit greenhouse gas emissions across the continent. Under the EU ETS, the European Commission sets an overall emissions cap, which represents the maximum allowable emissions within the EU's jurisdiction, covering key sectors such as power generation, manufacturing, and aviation. This cap is progressively reduced over time to align with the EU's climate targets. Companies receive or purchase emission allowances within this cap, and if they emit less than their allowance, they have the right to sell their surplus permits to others. The price of permits has experienced significant growth. In 2018, a permit was valued at €7.50, while by March 2023, it peaked at over €100. Therefore, this can be a powerful tool and mechanism to incentivize companies to innovate and reduce their emissions. On the other hand, a voluntary carbon market uses carbon credits: a document representing the equivalent of one metric ton of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, either prevented from being emitted into the atmosphere (emissions avoidance/reduction) or extracted from the atmosphere through a carbon-reduction project. This market could lead to emission avoidance/reduction in the short term by investing in green energy, energy-saving technologies, and natural resources. Secondly, it can lead to emission removal (negative emissions). Achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 will require at least five gigatons of negative emissions annually. The voluntary and compliance carbon markets face challenges related to measurement, standardized rules and regulation, leakage, and uncertainty. However, there are promising opportunities to make an impact within the food and agricultural industry. Future developments may enable the financial compensation of sustainable practices, reforestation efforts, and carbon sequestration processes. Companies that lead the way with innovative and environmentally friendly approaches are more likely to benefit from these opportunities. Consequently, investing in companies that actively remove and reduce emissions aligns with our investment philosophy and strategy, making both financial and moral sense. Michel Beekwilder of Origin & Amsterdam, a company from our portfolio specializing in sustainable sourcing and B2B trading of organic products like wheat, spelt, sunflower seeds, soybeans, nuts and vegetable oils, explains what role the carbon market will play in his pursuit of a more sustainable enterprise: "Every organization, regardless of size, will soon need to adhere to forthcoming regulations on environmental impact. We've established benchmarks and performed an internal materiality analysis to remain proactive and not merely reactive. Given our rapid expansion and dependence on the emissions from our logistics partners, a mere commitment to reducing CO2 isn't adequate. Instead, we prioritize partnerships with entities that utilize renewable and hydrogen-based fuels. Our goal is a 30% reduction in average emissions from transport of our products over the next five years. Any gaps in achieving this will be addressed through carbon offset purchases." "Aligning with our mission to create a positive impact, this approach also presents a strong business case. By 2024, major corporations will be mandated to detail their impact via CSRD, tracing back through their value chain to illustrate the nature of the products they acquire and sell. Consequently, these corporations will likely collaborate with sourcing firms with comprehensive impact reports and lead the way in sustainable policy. Moreover, by investing a premium, they can endorse their items with a carbon-neutral label, enhancing their product's value. We expect that customers who strive for transparency and sustainability will want to work with us. This shift is already happening, and making the right strategic decisions now will enable Origin & Amsterdam to be future-proof and acquire plenty of new business."
30 november 2023
Innovation and Sustainability in Packaging: An Interview with Klaas Hoving of Horizon Natuurvoeding This article is part of a series of LinkedIn interviews by the Anders Invest Food & Agri team. In this series, we take a look at the people and activities within our portfolio companies. In this interview, we talk to Klaas Hoving, who works at Horizon Natuurvoeding. Horizon produces organic nut butters as well as packaged nuts and dried fruits. These products are sold throughout Europe in organic and specialty food stores under the brands: Horizon, Monki, Jori, and Krekeltje. Horizon is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, and one of the ways they're marking this milestone is by launching a new packaging line. New Packaging Line Klaas Hoving has been working at Horizon as a Marketing & Benelux Sales specialist for about 11 years. Horizon is increasingly focusing on product innovations, with the most recent one being the revamped way of packaging organic nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. "With the new packaging line, we ensure that our products are even more visible on the shelves of organic and natural food stores and specialty shops. The nuts, seeds, and dried fruits will be packaged in quadroseal stand-up pouches in IJsselstein, improving their presentation." For Horizon, the new packaging is an improvement, and, as Klaas explains, the customers and retailers who were consulted about the stand-up pouches are very positive about them. Flexible and Dynamic Product Development In addition to making Horizon's products look better on the shelves and easier for consumers to find through the stand-up pouches, there are other benefits to the changed packaging line. Klaas mentions that while Horizon already imported and processed nuts, seeds, and fruits themselves, now they've added packaging to their capabilities. "We have more control over the production process, as we can now handle the packaging as well. This makes us much more dynamic and efficient in our product development." Moreover, the stand-up pouches offer opportunities to better serve customers and end-users in different countries. "The entire process, from bulk to the final packaged product, can now be handled by us. This allows us to provide a complete package, and in the long term, we see possibilities to better support our customers. This can also have pricing benefits for customers." Furthermore, the new line also provided a good reason to examine the packaging materials used and enhance their sustainability. Klaas explains that Horizon has opted for packaging made of 100% polypropylene, which is fully recyclable. The packages are then transported in cardboard boxes and sealed with cardboard tape, which is more sustainable than the plastic tape previously used. This way, Horizon ensures that their values are reflected in every step of the chain – from the final packaging that the consumer sees to the processes the product goes through. Challenges and Opportunities in Packaging Design While the flexibility gained by adjusting and taking control of the packaging has been a significant advantage for Horizon, it also required a lot of testing and experimentation. Klaas explains that the main challenge was aligning the product quantity with the size of the packaging. Horizon has been distinguishing itself for years by offering various packaging sizes, he says. Especially in the segment of small packages of organic nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, Horizon is unique: the quantities of 150, 400, and 800 grams are appealing to different target groups. "During the packaging testing, we didn't get the right ratio in one go: sometimes there was too little product in the stand-up pouch and too much packaging, and other times there was too much product. Not to mention fitting and arranging the consumer units in the right outer cartons and the ideal stacking ratio on the pallet. "Jeffrey and Raymon, as operators, are responsible for the packaging line and have worked incredibly hard in the past period. It's great to have dedicated employees with a lot of technical expertise," Klaas says. Ultimately, after several attempts, they succeeded in finding the right proportions for all the products offered in the stand-up pouches. However, Horizon is far from done with innovating, and it is precisely because of the packaging line that they see new possibilities, both within and outside the Netherlands. "With this packaging line, it's easier to innovate in products: for example, we can now offer mixed packages more easily, with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits all in one," Klaas continues. "Additionally, we can expand more easily in countries outside the Netherlands. For instance, our Monki brand is already well-known for nut butters in a large part of Europe. In the future, we could introduce stand-up pouches with organic nuts, seeds, and dried fruits under that brand. This way, there's a trusted and beloved brand in those areas with a 'new' product line." Klaas then explains that they're always working on improving products and coming up with new concepts. "We will continue to do so. We are full of new ideas to develop and launch in the coming years. At the same time, Horizon remains timeless and uncompromising. We adhere to our ideals, and this makes us reliable. This personally appeals to me, and we see it reflected in the trust and appreciation we receive from our customers."
02 november 2023
Dealing with volatile EBITDA-levels in company Valuations: (Dynamic) earn-outs in Private Equity This article is part of a series of short LinkedIn blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. In fast-paced markets with heightened uncertainty, accurately forecasting returns and valuing companies has become increasingly challenging. In a stable market environment with a steady EBITDA, valuing a company is often more straightforward—a multiplication of EBITDA by a fair multiple often provides the answer. However, when faced with an uncertain market environment and fluctuating EBITDA due to macro events like COVID-19 or geopolitical conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, accurately determining a company's value becomes more complex. We would like to outline a dynamic earn-out structure that we employ to deal with the abovementioned dilemmas. A creative deal structure that caps both upside potential and downside risk assuring a fair price for the seller and buyer. Let’s delve into the story of EcoBite, a fictitious company dedicated to delivering organic foods that serves as a dummy for an Anders Invest acquisition. During COVID-19, EcoBite’s performance increased substantially due to home-delivery demand. The company had an EBITDA of €6M in both 2020 and 2021. However, due to inflation and other macro-economic events, the company faced issues from both demand and supply side. This resulted in an EBITDA of only €3M in 2022. These unanticipated fluctuations in performance prompted EcoBite and Anders Invest to reevaluate their strategies and investments decisions. The owner of EcoBite valued the company using a €6M EBITDA claiming that the lower result was an isolated event and that would soon jump to 2020/21 levels. From our perspective, the uncertainty was too high, and we claimed a valuation based on €3 million EBITDA when looking at the performance of 2022. Realistically, the fair valuation lies somewhere between these numbers, but future performance is difficult to predict and sustainable cashflows cannot be assumed. As a result, we established a valuation benchmark at €3.5M, positioned between the specified numbers. To address the possibility of increased performance beyond the €3.5M EBITDA benchmark for the seller, the earn-out agreement enables additional returns if the results surpass this benchmark over the next three years (starting from 2023). In that case, we will pay the difference between the benchmark EBITDA and the actual realized EBITDA. This mechanism helps to capture the upside potential for the seller when performance is high. However, to address the possibility of lower performance than the €3.5M EBITDA benchmark and mitigate potential downside risk, the structure safeguards us by granting additional shares of the company or a cash pay-back. This type of earn-out is referred to as a dynamic earn-out. This way, we can still promise our investors a fairly predictable return since both the downside risk and upward potential are partly capped. Even if there is high uncertainty and it is difficult to predict future cash flows, this arrangement allows us to keep doing fair transactions for both the seller and our investors in a volatile and uncertain market. A creative structure that is beneficial for all parties involved. *In the past, we have successfully implemented this structure in real-life situations, customizing it to align with the distinct requirements and preferences of the selling shareholders. This framework offers the flexibility to opt for either a cash earn-out or a share redistribution. Additionally, it provides multiple payout and share redistribution scenarios that are contingent on the future performance of the company.
09 october 2023
Pioneering Sustainable Grain Trading: The Journey of Spartac Chilat and Prograin This article is part of a series of interviews by Anders Invest's Food & Agri team. Here, we look at people and activities from our portfolio companies. In this interview, we meet Spartac Chilat, the founder and CEO of Prograin Organic. A company that operates in the field of cultivation, processing, storage, trading and export of organic grains, seeds, and pulses in the Republic of Moldova. They were the first company to introduce organic food and agriculture in Moldova and help farmers transition from conventional to organic practices. History of Spartac and Prograin Spartac has been involved in the food and agriculture industry since graduating from the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova in 1997. Throughout his career, he held several positions with agricultural companies; focusing on the distribution, logistics, and trading soybeans, fertilizers, and grains across Moldova. What truly captivated him was the concept of uniting farmers and integrating them into a cooperative network. Leveraging his industry knowledge and network of distribution partners, buyers, and farmers, Spartac identified a promising opportunity in the grain trading industry in 2012, leading to the establishment of Prograin. Together with four former colleagues, he started his new venture. Having an in-depth understanding of conventional farming, Spartac was aware of its flaws. Fueled by a conviction to harness the full potential of Moldova's fertile landscape, he observed that ordinary operators lacked respectful land treatment, leading to reduced long-term fertility. The increasing use of chemicals and fertilizers deteriorated the ground and raised concerns about public health. Furthermore, competing in conventional farming against larger operators who used cost-leadership strategies posed obstacles with low margins, often undermining and eliminating smaller players. Therefore, Spartac recognized to take a more holistic view and initiated a transition to organic production in 2015 with Prograin. During this time, he met Dirk and Michel, his first Dutch connections, who were crucial in establishing the foundation for a later partnership with Anders Invest. "Prograin is deeply committed to aiding farmers by providing input supplies, certification, technological support, grain handling, logistics, legal assistance, and other essential activities. These endeavours, although crucial, require upfront investments. A significant challenge to note is that 80% of farmers struggle to make these initial investments without a direct return. This calls for a shift in mindset. Due to the sustainability aspect of our business, it's crucial to transition from short-term thinking to a long-term approach. While an investment today might take longer to realize profitability compared to conventional farming, with patience and understanding, it will ultimately become highly lucrative. This is not just due to enhanced soil health but also because of the opportunity for premium pricing. For a truly sustainable future, collaboration is vital. As we've always believed, "You cannot be sustainable if your partners are not sustainable." Together, with a united vision, we can ensure that both the land and our farming partners thrive." Anders Invest saw this niche market's favourable business climate and high growth potential in Moldova. Spartac explains: "Anders Invest brings their extensive expertise in food and agriculture, along with a long-term vision. We knew this was the perfect opportunity to start making a difference within the industry." Unique Value proposition of Prograin Prograin operates throughout Moldova's entire value chain of organic grains, seeds, and pulses. "We are dedicated to supplying high-quality organic products with complete traceability, ensuring a seamless journey from the field to the consumer's plate." Prograin ensures efficient collection and storage logistics and has invested in state-of-the-art organic processing lines. This commitment to infrastructure development allows Prograin to access organic grain markets effectively. They are Moldova's first IFS (International Featured Standards) certified company. Prograin's commitment to quality control ensures that products meet rigorous standards before export. They promote various crops, including spelt, wheat, oat, sunflower, corn, sorghum, mustard, green pea, yellow pea, soybean, rye, beans, alfalfa, and buckwheat. On top of that, they started the Moldova Organic Value Chain Alliance (MOVCA). An NGO that supports the growth and success of organic agriculture throughout Moldova and actively advocates for subsidies and pro-organic policies with the government. A bright future ahead The future of Prograin appears promising as organic production gains importance in the agricultural landscape. Spartac envisions significant growth driven by crop rotation, regenerative farming, and subsidies for green initiatives. The company invests in soil fertility programs to boost yields and increase profitability. Growth rates of more than 10% per year are anticipated as Prograin continues to navigate and excel in these different facets of the business. In conclusion, Spartac Chilat's journey in the food and agriculture industry has culminated in the establishment of Prograin, a pioneering force in Moldova's agricultural landscape. His vision of becoming a market leader and fostering a cooperative network among farmers has driven Prograin's success and has only just started. With the strategic partnership with Anders Invest, Prograin has a bright future, aiming to expand its reach and connect with more farmers while ensuring high-quality products and complete traceability from field to plate.
21 september 2023
Green Growth: Strengthening Organic Agriculture with Regenerative Practices for a Sustainable Future This is the first of a series of short blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here, we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. Climate change presents challenges to humankind, with a variety of notable impacts across the globe, such as receding ice caps and severe weather occurrences. Food and agriculture have the potential to contribute positively to climate change mitigation. As stated by the UN, approximately 40% of the Earth's land is currently degraded, with the possibility of depleting our topsoil in around 60 years. In this Blog we investigate the potential of regenerative and organic farming to combat the adverse climate effects of agriculture and how we try to implement this at our portfolio company in Moldova: Prograin Organic. Organic and regenerative farming are both sustainable farming methods that have the potential to complement each other for even greater sustainable benefits. Regenerative agriculture is gaining momentum in recent years; by focusing on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and sequestering carbon, it aims to create a resilient and productive agricultural system. However, regenerative agriculture currently lacks universal definitions, practices, regulation, and supervision to have a consistent impact. Organic agriculture, through a certification system, does have universal definitions, practices, regulation, and supervision. However, it is relatively narrower than regenerative farming as it primarily focuses on avoiding synthetic chemicals and promoting natural inputs. We aim to combine the best of both worlds; that organic farming can be complemented with regenerative farming practices, specifically focusing on promoting the regenerative properties of soil. “At Anders Invest, we endorse organic as a dependable sustainability standard, while striving to surpass it by promoting regenerative practices in our portfolio companies. For instance, our Moldovan company, Prograin Organic, assists conventional farmers in transitioning to sustainable farming methods by providing organic fertilizers that boost soil regeneration. We pursue this approach not only to generate a positive impact but also to secure long-term financial returns through increased yields and improved crop quality” comments Jurjen van der Werf (Investment Manager at Anders Invest).
20 july 2023
From Yuck to Yum: The Growing Potential of the Edible Insect Market Our second short blog! By the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here, we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. In 2018, the European Union approved the use of insects as a food source, marking a significant breakthrough in the food industry. In May 2021 the European Commission granted its first authorization for an insect based food product, approving the dried mealworm as a safe food ingredient. There are still some hurdles to overcome before edible insects are broadly consumed and accepted, but we anticipate widespread adoption and increasing growth in the next years. Edible insects offer numerous benefits; however, some unfounded concerns about their safety exist. Online reports suggest that insects are non-digestible and could cause cancer, making some individuals hesitant to consume them. These misconceptions contribute to the existing stigma associated with eating insects, often referred to as the "yuck factor," which further discourages consumers from trying these alternative food sources. Recent studies have refuted these concerns, demonstrating that edible insects are not only nutritious but also safe to eat. While it's true that some parts of insects are non-digestible, these components act as sources of fiber, aiding digestion like whole grain bread, beans, and seeds. Before granting approval, regulatory authorities like the European Union thoroughly assess the safety of edible insects for consumption. Moreover, around 2 billion people worldwide already incorporate insects into their diets regularly. Although the edible insects market is still relatively small, it is poised for rapid growth as awareness of their benefits spreads and the "yuck factor" diminishes. For instance, the global mealworm market is forecasted to hit $1.27 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 28.6% from 2022 to 2030. We believe that the path to success for businesses in this market depends on optimizing farming operations to reduce costs while enhancing quality. The promising market potential and its unique market position are the two main reasons for Anders Invest Food & Agri to invest in Starfood Holland. As a European market leader in mealworm farming for the food and feed industry, Star Food operates a large-scale insect farming facility in Hungary. Together with VDL Groep, Star Food recently developed a customized feeding line to further automate mealworm farming, effectively reducing marginal costs while ensuring high quality. Robust market growth isn't the sole factor driving Anders Invest's entry into the mealworm market. Mealworm proteins offer a more sustainable alternative to many traditional protein sources, such as meat. Stay tuned for our next LinkedIn blog, where we'll dive deeper into this topic.
20 july 2023
Feeding the World: A Perspective on Sustainable and Affordable Food This article is part of a series of short blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here, we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. As the world's population inches closer to 10 billion, the escalating food demand is unignorable. To meet this, global food production must ramp up by 50-70%, a challenge intensified by the 2.3 billion individuals already grappling with food insecurity. In addition, there is the simultaneous necessity to mitigate climate change impacts, underscoring the dual challenge of affordability and sustainability that more and more defines the food and agricultural sector. The challenge is that we’re trying to feed the growing world population while also needing to take care of our climate and all the different kinds of life on our planet. This situation has led to two different ways of thinking: agroecology and ecomodernism. Agroecology supports sustainable food production, leaning towards organic farming that takes care of the soil, clean water, biodiversity, and nutritious food. On the other hand, ecomodernism focuses on using technology and producing a lot of food on a small piece of land, suggesting a strict separation between farmland and other ecosystems where nature can flourish. Strike the right balance between satisfying the imperative demand for accessible food and tackling the pressing issue of climate change, and you'll find yourself caught in the midst of a high-stakes struggle. Volkert Engelsman, the founder of Eosta BV / Nature & More, simplifies this complex dilemma: “We are losing 30 soccer fields of fertile land every minute, profit can only be profit if it doesn’t jeopardize people and planet. While affordability is undeniably vital, it is equally important that we conduct comprehensive calculations that account for both the positive and negative externalities associated with nutritious food, social inclusion, and ecosystems.” Nevertheless, Hidde Boersma, in his thought-provoking piece for the Correspondent, sheds light on the ecomodernist view: “Through the adoption of intensified farming techniques, we possess the capacity to free up farmland spanning the entirety of Russia. This staggering feat can be achieved by harnessing the power of a 25% boost in crop productivity.” Boersma passionately argues that this preserved land, no longer under the plow, could be transformed into thriving natural ecosystems, becoming havens of biodiversity and environmental balance. However, Boersma's ideas regarding factory farming rest upon a set of assumptions that blur our understanding of ecosystems and microbiomes, misrepresenting their true workings. An oversimplification of nature allows for easy commodification and scalability but diminishes the intertwined complexities that constitute as nutritious food utilizing only a fraction of the required DNA of plants and neglects the importance of sunlight and instead using LED lighting. At Anders Invest Food & Agri Fonds, we understand that a one-sided approach risks overlooking the intertwined complexities of social development and environmental sustainability. In the short-term, there is a contention that a solely organic system lacks affordability for all, without taking into account negative externalities such as the increasing healthcare costs associated with food-related diseases, water pollution, and nitrogen intensification. Conversely, an excessive focus on agricultural intensification disregards environmental considerations, biodiversity depletion, water pollution, and the potential dependency of developing countries on western technology. As we analyze the crux of the matter, a distinct pattern comes into focus. It becomes increasingly apparent that the organic system exhibits minimal to no yield loss for fruits, while grains suffer a more substantial decline. Considering this significant revelation, we propose a focused strategy: let us channel our efforts into cultivating fruits using entirely organic methods, effectively demonstrating the positive impact on consumer prices while the lower yields justify a slight premium for the grains. After all, to provide affordable and organic sustenance for our rapidly growing global population, it is imperative that we address the global power dynamics within the food and agriculture sector. This involves reducing the substantial portion of land currently allocated to animal production, which currently stands at 70%, and prioritizing the availability of nutritious food worldwide. We will dive into these subjects in a later blog. Stay tuned!
20 july 2023
The Future of Protein: Harnessing the Efficiency and Sustainability of Mealworm Production This article is part of a series of short blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. In our previous article about mealworms (find it here), we debunked the notion that mealworms are a harmful food source. We underscored the significant role they can play in enhancing diet quality, given their robust protein profile - a whopping 55% - and their completeness in supplying all essential amino acids. Previously, mealworms were largely reserved for animal feed. However, the recent years have seen a shift in their role towards human food, with the EU allowing the use of mealworms for human consumption. This broadens the horizon for mealworms, as they are poised to shape the future of nutrition for both animals and humans. What makes this even more exciting is that the merits of mealworms extend beyond dietary health—they also stand out as a remarkably sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources. For instance, these insects leave a significantly smaller carbon footprint, require less water, and are not as land dependent. The figure below offers a comparative overview of different protein sources, highlighting the superior sustainability metrics of mealworms. The realization of these sustainability benefits hinges critically on the price-competitiveness of mealworm proteins against alternative protein sources, particularly with regards to animal feed. As such, we're of the view that for companies in the mealworm farming sector, their right to win lies in their ability to operate at comparatively low marginal costs while upholding a consistent, high-quality protein yield. Our portfolio company, Starfood Holland, has a leading position in the mealworm farming market. As founder and co-owner Wim Soetendaal explains: “With our partly automated farming operation in Hungary we have the scale and efficiency to produce at a competitive marginal cost while ensuring consistent quality. In addition, we pelletize the mealworm manure and use these pellets to generate the energy to maintain the farms at optimal farming temperature. As such, we further reduce the marginal costs”. In conclusion, mealworms mark a pivotal shift in the protein industry, both nutritionally and sustainably. The success lies in efficient production, as demonstrated by our portfolio company, Star Food. Their innovative approach is helping to shape a more sustainable Food & Agri sector. Stay tuned for more insights and developments from Anders Invest as we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of this industry.
20 july 2023
Sustainable Soy: Balancing Demand and Environmental Responsibility This article is part of a series of short blogs by the Food & Agri team of Anders Invest. Here we outline our perspectives on key themes that are relevant to the Food & Agri sector and explain how we try to make an impact with our portfolio companies and investment strategies. The popularity of soy-based products has been steadily increasing for years. Soy is a versatile legume that is used not only as a meat substitute in products like veggie burgers and vegan chicken, but also as a source of protein for livestock and farmed fish. A big part of the soy production occurs in Brazil, Argentina, and the United States, where the favourable climate allows for high crop yields. Within Europe, the Netherlands is the largest importer of soy, importing 2.51% of all soy, worth 2.19 billion dollars. Thus, soy is big business in our country! The cultivation of soy, however, has a dark side which can be most clearly seen in Brazil and is caused by three things mostly. Firstly, vast forest areas have been cleared to make way for soy fields, resulting in a significant loss of biological CO2 sequestration. This has detrimental consequences for global warming and biodiversity, as the rainforest is needed to reduce CO2 in the environment and houses a large variety of flora and fauna. Secondly, the use of pesticides and imported fertilizers in soy cultivation has raised concerns about environmental sustainability, as because it can lead to water pollution, for example in rivers and lakes surrounding the soy fields. Lastly, instances are known where farmers producing soy have been exploited and pushed excessively to get the most out of their land. Apart from this, local tribes that rely on the rainforest are being threatened in their survival. Since the Netherlands plays a big role in import and export of soy, this also comes with a responsibility to make sure the soy is of good quality and not a product of harmful malpractice to nature or the local population. The good news is that there are local initiatives that see these problems and that strive to produce soy in an environmentally friendly way, while also taking into consideration the wellbeing of farmers producing the crop. One of the companies taking initiative is Gebana Brasil, one of our portfolio companies at Anders Invest. They are contributing by promoting and processing organic, non-genetically modified soy and other grains and seeds, as well as fair compensation for farmers. Saskia Korink, investment director for Anders Invest, explains the approach of Gebana further: “Organic soy production also entails crop rotation. This means that a different crop is growing on a particular piece of land each growing season. This is very useful to prevent soil diseases, insect pests, weed problems and to build healthy soils." To drive significant change in the sustainability and ethics behind soy cultivation, it is important to look beyond well-known institutions like legislators and policy makers and support local endeavours that bring about tangible impact, mitigate deforestation, and pave the way for a genuinely sustainable future.
20 july 2023
