In this interview series, HSWT presents startups that are part of the Food Startup Incubator Weihenstephan (FSIWS) . The series presents the companies, their product ideas and how they work.
The founders Aileen and Anina want to enable their customers to live with a balanced glucose level. Banish cravings from our lives and avoid weight fluctuations without sacrificing moments of pleasure. With Leìos Food they combine their passion for nutritional science and metabolic health with the latest scientific findings.
FSIWS: How important is the scientific basis for your startup?
A scientific basis is at the core of our startup as we create a functional product for end consumers. It is important that all the ingredients we use have a proven, positive effect on blood sugar levels.
During product conception and development, we always incorporate the latest studies from renowned nutritional science or medical universities, such as Harvard and Stanford Medical School or the University of Hohenheim. For example, several studies have shown that taking apple cider vinegar before meals high in carbohydrates and sugar can reduce blood sugar increases by up to 30 percent. This is how the idea for our first product, the Leios ACV (ACV = Apple Cider Vinegar = apple cider vinegar) shots (apple cider vinegar shots) and ACV drops, came about.
Which products can you recommend for beginners?
We would start with our ACV drops. The ACV Drops are made from 100 percent organic apple cider vinegar and are enriched with natural flavors. The ACV drops can be easily dosed yourself using a pipette. This way, apple cider vinegar beginners can get used to the taste.
How did the FSIWS support you on your journey?
The FSIWS offers us a great network of food engineers and project developers as well as access to the research laboratory and technical center to test and develop our recipes.
Do you have any tips for aspiring female entrepreneurs?
Don’t let yourself be labeled as female entrepreneurs – you are entrepreneurs! A good tip is to join women's angel networks and exchange ideas with experienced founders. Our general tips are: Use your network as much as possible at the beginning and collect reports from female founders in your area. Be patient, everything takes longer than expected at the beginning. And know your target group!