#Japan #Tokyo #Food Tech #UMAMI UNITED #plant-based eggs

UMAMI UNITED Advances in Plant-Based Alternatives

In a significant move to strengthen its global production and development capabilities, UMAMI UNITED has successfully raised 3.1 billion yen (approximately $3.1 million). This funding will enable the company to meet the skyrocketing demand for plant-based egg alternatives while addressing various societal challenges, including rising egg prices and supply instability.

Founded with the mission of "Creating a Future with ONE TABLE," UMAMI UNITED focuses extensively on research and development of plant-based eggs. Recent trends indicate an increase in egg allergies and a growing vegan population, reflecting a shift toward sustainable food alternatives. Chicken eggs have long been deemed essential for their diverse functionalities, such as thermal coagulation, foaming, emulsification, and binding—elements that are crucial for ensuring food quality in various culinary applications globally.

UMAMI UNITED has developed a unique technology that scientifically deconstructs and reconstructs the complex functionalities of eggs. By leveraging this proprietary approach, the company is able to create plant-based egg alternatives that cater to the diverse needs in food manufacturing worldwide. The recent funding will not only facilitate further R&D but will also enable UMAMI UNITED to establish large-scale production technology that aligns with its expansion goals in Europe and North America.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, UMAMI UNITED is determined to evolve its functional recreation technology primarily centered around plant-based materials, such as thermoreversible gel substances, to develop next-generation egg alternatives that can thrive in the global marketplace. As part of its expansion phase, the company plans to establish a manufacturing base aimed at mass production. Transforming the outcomes of research into a reliable and large-scale supply system will accelerate the expansion of applications in the food industry, thereby contributing to a sustainable food future.

This funding marks a significant step for UMAMI UNITED, a Japanese food tech startup, as it continues to strengthen its R&D capabilities and international presence, aiming to tackle global food challenges.

Investor Insights

UMAMI UNITED received support from several investors during this funding round, with key insights shared by:

• - Yusuke Okazawa, Principal at Mint: "My first introduction to a '100% plant-based egg' sparked my curiosity. However, after discussions with the founders, I realized the crucial role eggs play in our diets and was captivated by UMAMI EGG's vast potential. The passionate and execution-oriented team is leading the food tech sector, and we're excited to support their journey in creating a new food culture rooted in Japan."

• - Akisuke Arima, Partner at Beyond Next Ventures: "We're thrilled to continue supporting UMAMI UNITED's mission through this additional investment. Their cutting-edge egg reproduction technology has already received recognition from food manufacturers, paving the way for successful product adoption both domestically and internationally."

• - Takashi Sogabe, Investment Manager at Genesia Ventures: "In the context of prevailing supply volatility and rising feed costs, UMAMI UNITED's innovative approach offers food companies alternatives that are not influenced by traditional supply-and-demand metrics. They're creating customizable 'functional modules,' expanding options for backgrounds in baking, ramen production, and many other culinary facets."

• - Kenta Sugita, Investment Officer at SMBC Venture Capital: "Eggs are integral to food flavor and texture across many products. UMAMI UNITED's ability to replicate complex functionalities using plant materials showcases their technological prowess on a global scale, led by CEO Yamazaki's vision of a world without food barriers."

• - Akifumi Obata, Capital Manager at United: "We are excited about the opportunity to invest in UMAMI UNITED, which offers a product with a distinctly unique technological advantage. My first experience tasting their product was remarkable in terms of reproduction, fueling my desire to become an investor. The company embodies the future of food tech from Japan."

• - Tomoki Mogi, Investment Manager at Mitsubishi UFJ Capital: "UMAMI UNITED is innovating a new model of food tech that provides functional ingredients tailored to manufacturers’ needs. Their blend of scientific research and cultural flavors holds great potential for global business expansion."

• - Yoshiaki Nakayama, Investment Manager at Mizuho Capital: "Participating in this funding round made me realize the strategic potential of UMAMI UNITED. With their focus not only on aesthetics and taste but also on stability and price considerations, I firmly believe in their capacity to reshape the culinary landscape with plant-based solutions."

Company Overview

• - Company Name: UMAMI UNITED Inc.
• - Location: 1-16-16 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
• - Business Activity: Development and sales of plant-based eggs
• - Founded: October 13, 2023, UMAMI UNITED Inc.; March 9, 2022, UMAMI UNITED JAPAN Inc.
• - Corporate Website: UMAMI UNITED