Oisix’s Future Food Fund Invests in NINZIA’s Innovative Konjac-Based Binder

Oisix, known for its food subscription service, has taken a significant step in food innovation by investing in NINZIA, a company specializing in plant-based binders derived from konjac. This investment was executed through Oisix's corporate venture capital (CVC) subsidiary, Future Food Fund, and marks their 38th investment initiative concerning the transformative food sector.

The Future Food Fund, based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is dedicated to fostering advancements within the food industry. NINZIA, headquartered in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, has developed a groundbreaking plant-based binder, "NINZIA PASTE," which is extracted and processed from konjac yam. This investment was established to boost the company’s potential for growth by leveraging its innovative product that caters to the rising demand for healthier food alternatives.

Background of the Investment

In recent years, there's been a noticeable surge in health consciousness among consumers, leading to increasing demands for food materials that are both functional and safe. This trend includes growing interest in low-carb, gluten-free, and low-calorie options; however, the availability of plant-based alternative materials has been limited. This is where NINZIA’s product comes into play.

NINZIA PASTE is the world's first konjac-based plant binder possessing attributes such as zero sugar, low calories, complete plant-based composition, and gluten-free qualities. It is designed to expand food choices for individuals who require dietary restrictions due to health conditions like diabetes, obesity, or allergies. The product's versatility allows it to be incorporated into various processed foods, aligning well with Future Food Fund’s vision of supporting innovative startups in the food sector.

The CVC is eager to assist NINZIA’s growth by collaborating on joint product developments that utilize NINZIA PASTE, ensuring the company is equipped to meet the evolving market demands.

About NINZIA PASTE

NINZIA PASTE is a revolutionary material that maintains a paste-like consistency without fully solidifying, setting it apart from traditional konjac products. It can serve as a substitute for ingredients like syrup, sugar, and wheat gluten. This product can be adeptly used in various everyday foods including tofu waffles, dumplings, and hamburgers, broadening the culinary horizons of consumers.

Notably, many existing binders are predominantly derived from animal-based materials, processed starches, or sugars, rendering NINZIA’s plant-based option both healthy and suitable for clean label products highly in demand.

Additionally, NINZIA PASTE is characterized by its ability to control blood sugar levels along with unique properties such as a pleasant texture, heat coagulation resembling proteins, and robust gel formation, ensuring its viability for various food applications including healthy snacks, plant-based seafood, vegan meats, and even emergency rations that prioritize taste.

Development of Products Using NINZIA PASTE

NINZIA’s innovative approach has already led to the launch of several unique products, including gluten-free low-sugar tofu waffles, original protein crackers, and granola which do not use syrup or sugar.

About NINZIA Inc.

- Headquarters: Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
- CEO: Masahiro Yoritama
- Website: NINZIA Website
- Business Focus: Developing technologies that control dietary fiber behavior and create textures and flavors without relying on sugar, lipids, or animal-derived ingredients. NINZIA promotes enjoyment in the act of eating while harnessing konjac’s unique properties.

Comments from the Leadership

Masahiro Yoritama commented on NINZIA's mission, stating that the company aims to create a world where everyone can freely enjoy food, overcoming dietary restrictions caused by health issues. Alongside the support from Oisix and Future Food Fund, they aspire to enhance and expand their business globally.

In a similar vein, Hasegawa from Future Food Fund highlighted that NINZIA's binder technology responds to global health trends and challenges faced by the food industry. He noted that local consumers showed positive feedback regarding products like tofu waffles and granola made with NINZIA PASTE, showcasing its market potential.

About Future Food Fund

Founded in August 2019, Future Food Fund aims to establish a startup ecosystem within Japan’s food sector, focusing on food innovation investments that support health and agriculture through collaborative efforts with partner companies.

- Website: Future Food Fund

About Oisix

Oisix offers delivery services for organic and special cultivated vegetables while minimizing food additives. Their brands, including Oisix, Radish Boya, and Daichi wo Mamoru Kai, are committed to addressing social issues related to food through innovative business strategies.