Startups @ HSWT | Part 42: Smiling Food

With a unique modular system, the startup Smiling Food replaces sucrose in all its properties on a 1:1 basis, combining data science, process innovation, and application technology with sound gastroenterological and nutritional research. Lisa Reiss, Harald Bogner, Alexandra Schlothmann, and Inga Jöst from the Research & Development team reveal the special features of their startup.

FSIWS: How did Smiling Food come about?

Lisa was exposed to sugar from a young age, as her grandmother was a pastry chef. When her grandmother developed diabetes, Lisa began to wonder why sweet baked goods were always associated with sugar and whether there weren't better alternatives. This question motivated her to experiment, but her attempts failed due to side effects, texture, and taste. Determined to continue her grandmother's legacy, she and her team researched sugar-free baked goods. She realized that existing sugar substitutes were insufficient and that the challenge was greater than she had anticipated. A year later, she set her sights on developing an innovative, modular system that perfectly mimicked the properties of sugar without the drawbacks of conventional alternatives.

What makes Smiling Food unique in the field of sugar alternatives?

Smiling Food is developing the world's first modular system for sugar alternatives that can replace sucrose 1:1 in all its properties. By combining data science, process innovation, and application technology with sound gastroenterological and nutritional research, Smiling Food succeeds in precisely imitating sugar without artificial sweeteners or side effects.

Compared to other providers: How does your approach to developing sugar alternatives differ?

Most sugar alternative providers only address partial problems: either their products are sweet but synthetic, lack volume, have laxative effects, or have a high glycemic index. Furthermore, companies often focus on only individual aspects such as functionality, taste, or nutritional value. We pursue a holistic approach that unites all disciplines to create innovative and comprehensive solutions. We offer a holistic approach that combines data science, processes, application technology, and synergistic effects.

The advantages of sugar alternatives. Smiling Food is developing the world's first modular system for sugar alternatives that can replace sucrose 1:1 in all its properties.