General overview of the situation in the sector: There is a growing awareness of gastrointestinal health and its importance on overall wellbeing, alongside the increasing food intolerances, allergies, and food-based lifestyle choices. Since has also been shown that plant-based and probiotic-rich food can be offered as a new medicine to boost immunity, improve digestion and support mental well-being; and it is the easiest way to maintain and restore health. 

Feremntful is a new food-tech company based in Latvia that produces fermented green buckwheat alternative milk beverages packed with beneficial life microorganisms. 

At the end of 2021 we launched our product in Latvian market and soon we will be available in other Baltic countries and Finland. 

Description of the challenge: Fermentful aim is to be available in all major retail chains in Europe. Within that we have faced challenges regarding product stability and shelf life. Currently we have a validation for a month-long shelf life. To enter in the next export markets successfully we would like to find the solution to extend the shelf life to 3 – 6 months while keeping the products clean-label and rich in life microorganisms. We see that  improvements regarding shelf life and product stability could be done through smarter packaging solutions, culture optimisation and production process.

Solution to expect from Hackathon teams: We would be happy to find any solution for shelf life extension from 1 to at least 3 months. NB Product needs cold chain transportation and chilled storage.