AlpinaSana, the startup using 3D imaging technology and artificial intelligence to personalize supplements for seniors, has obtained 150,000 Swiss Francs from Venture Kick. Having sold out its first batch, the startup will use the fresh funding to scale production as it further tests the solution in multiple pilot projects.
Elderly people often lack proper nutrition due to appetite loss, swallowing difficulties, and challenges monitoring their intake. This leads to frailty, muscle loss, and higher healthcare costs. While many medical drinks available today address this issue, they often fall short in terms of taste acceptance due to artificial ingredients and off-flavours from vitamins.
The AlpinaSana team – comprising Robert Schreiber (CEO), Gommaar D'Hulst (CSO), Jotam Bergfreund (Product Developer), and Raban Ilten (AI Developer) – is at the forefront of personalizing supplements using innovative 3D imaging technology. By scanning the daily food intake of the elderly, the solution can identify individuals’ specific nutritional needs based on which the company creates personalized nutritional supplements in various forms such as meal drinks, Ice creams, and cookies. The scanner is fully automatic, and it automatically loads nutritional data into the hospital information system.
The FSMP market (Food for Special Medical Purposes) is currently valued at approximately USD 13 billion and is substantially growing. AlpinaSana aims to start serving the recognized 6% of malnourished patients, and further expand their offering, aiming for a 20% plus of the market. The startup’s primary customers include hospitals, care facilities, and home care services, which distribute AlpinaSana’s products directly to patients. With the first production already sold out, and the startup has secured multiple pilots with 60 hospitals and clinics across Switzerland.
The financial boost from Venture Kick will allow the startup to accelerate its business development efforts and scale production. Initiatives include an offline campaign, participation in major nutritional fairs, and the design and production of the first FSMP ice cream, set for launch in June 2024.
“Venture Kick was a game-changer for us. The program has not only refined our approach to achieving product-market fit but also inspired us to set and pursue ambitious goals. Venture Kick has indeed kicked us forward, encouraging us to think big and act boldly,” highlighted Robert Schreiber.
(Press release/RAN)
Image: AlpinaSana’s team: Gommaar D’Hulst, Robert Schreiber, Raban Iten, and Jotam Bergfreund
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