Munich Startup: What does your startup do? What problem do you solve?
Koralo: The fishing industry is unable to keep up with demand due to overfishing and ecosystem destruction. Furthermore, there are growing consumer health concerns regarding microplastics, heavy metals, and antibiotics in fish.
Our production mimics nature with traditional fermentation (like beer) that uses microalgae as food. The result is a super-natural, flavorful, and nutritious white fish fillet, offering even fish lovers a better alternative for themselves and the planet.
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Koralo: There are fish alternatives on the market, but only ready-to-eat or chopped/baked products with 10 to 25 ingredients on the ingredient list, which lack taste, texture and/or nutritional value compared to real fish
Turning algae into fish
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
KoraloIt all began with a walk on the beach when Sina saw the seaweed and asked Guido if he could somehow turn it into a delicious food. Guido's idea sparked: "A vegan fish alternative!" With the technological help of scientists Karen and Harshitha, Koralo was born with the shared vision of revolutionizing the food industry through innovation to have a positive impact on the oceans and on people.
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Koralo: The biggest challenge so far has been to accurately mimic the sensory characteristics of fish, from taste to texture, using our innovative technology based on traditional fermentation (like beer & yogurt).
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Koralo: In one year, we want to have our product in German supermarkets. Consumers should also be able to find our product in restaurants. In five years, we want to be found throughout Europe and make our first market entry in the US and Asia.
But our goals are all based on our core values: to do something truly good not only for the planet, but also for people. We don't just talk about sustainability and innovation; we truly stand behind them in everything we do.
Support from TUM Venture Labs
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Koralo: We have experienced so much support from Munich, from the TUM Venture Labs to all the Munich incubator and accelerator programs in which we had the great pleasure and honor of being able to participate.
Munich Startup: Quick exit or long breath?
Koralo: This question answers itself when you consider the motivation that drives the Koralo team: to have a positive impact on people and the planet through innovation. A sustainable company must therefore be exactly that: sustainable, with a long-term presence.
