What, when and who?
Poseidona was founded by two pioneering female entrepreneurs, Sònia Hurtado and María Cermeño. It is a dynamic startup that commenced operations in early 2023. Both founders have a wealth of scientific expertise in food technology.
At Poseidona, our mission is to revolutionise the protein industry by harnessing the untapped potential of the sea. We specialise in creating protein ingredients sourced from unconventional marine resources, specifically utilising by-products of seaweed and invasive seaweed species. Our innovative approach aims to provide a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional animal proteins and soy protein.
Background and goals
Beyond being pioneers in food innovation, in Poseidona we demonstrate a profound commitment to harmonising with the planet's invaluable aquatic ecosystems. Our mission extends far beyond business; we are dedicated to responsibly harnessing resources, paving the way for a brighter and more flavourful future.
We have meticulously crafted a premium, eco-friendly alternative to conventional animal and plant proteins, boasting not only exceptional taste but also scalability. Our unique approach involves harnessing the potential of macroalgae by-products to enhance the circular economy and utilising invasive species from the Mediterranean to support the blue economy.
Learning together
What is innovative about your initiative?
What sets Poseidona apart is our pioneering approach to protein sourcing. Unlike traditional methods, we venture into unexplored territory by utilising two unconventional yet abundant marine resources: by-products of seaweed and invasive seaweed species.
How were you able to finance your work?
We received private funds and currently we are applying for national and international public funding.
What hurdles and obstacles did you encounter along your way and how did you deal with them?
Our primary challenges lie in technology and regulation. Seaweed's organoleptic properties may not suit all food applications, making our key goal the creation of a neutral-coloured and tasteless protein powder. To address this, we've partnered with public institutions, including tech centres and universities. Our junior scientist is pursuing an industrial PhD focused on optimising organoleptic properties.
Additionally, navigating novel food regulations is crucial. We have a well-defined regulatory roadmap strategy to guide us through the necessary consultations and approvals, ensuring compliance and a smooth integration into the market.
Are there any tools or other forms of support that have played a role for you?
As a startup, we've experienced substantial growth and support from both business and scientific advisors. Engaging in acceleration and incubation programs has also played a pivotal role in our development, providing essential resources, networking and mentorship.
What are your demands for politicians?
We urge politicians to prioritise improved consumer education, focusing on food nutrition and environmental awareness across all age groups. This initiative aligns with our vision for a healthier and more informed society.
This project presentation is licensed under the following CC license: BY - Attribution