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How to Enter the Dutch Food Ecosystem: Guide for International Food Scale-Ups Ready to Launch or Expand in the EU

For international food scale-ups and manufacturers, the Netherlands is a prime location in Europe for launching food innovations and expanding manufacturing. In the Dutch food ecosystem, your company can benefit from a business-friendly climate, advanced infrastructure, and a strong network of suppliers and partners. International scale-ups benefit from a unique combination of advantages in the Netherlands: The Netherlands offers robust manufacturing, high standards, and a dense supplier network, providing easy access to the EU market and strong support for scale-ups. Despite these benefits, entering the Dutch food ecosystem is challenging. Scale-ups face issues finding the right contacts, navigating requirements, and managing introductions. Recognising these bottlenecks helps you enter more efficiently. Who do you talk to first?Which facilities are relevant?How do you avoid wasting months on introductions that go nowhere? This guide is tailored for international food scale-ups and manufacturers. It will help you enter the Dutch ecosystem efficiently and reduce risks as you prepare for EU manufacturing. Let’s explore why the Netherlands is a prime location for your growth. Why the Netherlands Is a Strategic Base for EU Food Manufacturing and Scale-Up International brands choose NL when they need: They want a stable manufacturing base that meets EU rules, easy access to partners, and faster entry to retail and foodservice markets. Close proximity to key markets and a strong quality culture make the Netherlands a wise choice. The greatest advantage is the concentration of resources within a small geographic area. Within a small area, you can reach many different partners, such as: You can quickly connect with co-manufacturers, suppliers, packaging partners, laboratories, and technical experts. With so many options, the main challenge is efficient navigation. Understanding common obstacles is essential before jumping in. The 5 Bottlenecks International Food Scale-Ups Face Entering the Dutch Market Many teams waste time due to mismatches between product requirements and manufacturing capabilities. A producer's "yes" does not always mean process fit. Documentation and compliance expectationsEU requirements and retailer standards can differ from home markets. Network noiseYou may receive numerous introductions, but not enough qualified options. Unclear decisionsTeams lose direction without early decisions on piloting or scaling up. Onboarding and execution riskTrials can fail without clear success criteria or change control from the start. Now, let’s look at how to set yourself up for success with concrete steps. Fast-Track Steps for Entering the Dutch Food Ecosystem and EU Manufacturing Step 1 — Define your EU manufacturing profile Before contacting partners, define your product, process needs, target volumes, and growth plans. List packaging specs, limitations, required standards, certifications, and key claims. Anticipate regulatory hurdles, including EU and Dutch requirements and relevant certifications. This helps you focus on critical needs and streamlines your search. Step 2 — Build a shortlist, not a longlist Shortlist 5 to 8 realistic candidates who fit your process, have capacity, maintain solid documentation, and match your goals. This keeps your focus on the most relevant partners. Step 3 — Validate with a structured vetting process Consistently vet your shortlist. Assess equipment compatibility, quality, documentation, capacity, schedules, contract terms, and IP boundaries. This covers all key areas. Step 4 — Plan onboarding as a controlled phase Manage onboarding as a controlled phase. Set trial protocols, criteria, change control, and required documentation. Plan packaging trials, scale-up timelines, and the path to full production. Moving forward, consider how tailored support can help accelerate this process. Cibus Nexum: Supporting International Food Scale-Ups in the Dutch Food Ecosystem At Cibus Nexum, we support international food scale-ups in entering the Dutch food ecosystem efficiently and with confidence. This is highlighted by our being a facility partner at Accelerate in NL (Functional Ingredients Edition), where we’re helping startups, scaleups, and SMEs enter the Dutch Market. Cibus Nexum adds value to scaling food innovators by staying objective and unaffiliated with manufacturers. Unlike brokers, we don’t promote specific partners. Unlike consultants, we do more than deliver reports: we’re hands-on partners from requirements to onboarding. Our approach eliminates network noise, directly connects you to qualified options, and manages the process so you move quickly and confidently. Are You Ready to Accelerate Your Entry into the Dutch or EU market? If you are an international food scale-up preparing to launch in the EU, the Netherlands can serve as a strong base when navigated effectively. 👉 Want to enter the Dutch food ecosystem faster? Book a short intro call with our experts. We'll map your needs and outline the quickest path to a shortlist of Dutch and EU partners.

01 April 2026

The Outsourcing Roadmap: Why the First Batch Isn’t a Strategy in Plant-Based Food Manufacturing

Perfecting your plant-based recipe is just the beginning. Moving to commercial production can introduce new problems, such as inconsistent quality and process issues, because small-batch methods often don't scale well. This article explains why having a clear plan is important for tackling these challenges and establishing a reliable process for a successful launch. Many alternative-protein companies manage their initial runs in months by partnering with flexible co-manufacturers, using pilot lines, and employing rapid prototyping. However, scaling plant-based foods in Europe is more difficult due to strict regulations, changing standards, and country-specific rules on claims and labelling. Factors like ingredient changes, processing steps, nutritional claims, allergens, shelf-life, sustainability, and EU regulations complicate scaling. For instance, switching between pea protein lots can alter viscosity, affecting texture and yield. Small adjustments can disrupt processes, highlighting the need for careful planning. If you are outsourcing, simply having a co-manufacturer is not enough; you need a clear roadmap. Why Fast Plant-Based Contract Manufacturing Outsourcing Often Breaks at Scale Short-term wins in plant-based outsourcing often come from low minimum orders, quick production, fast approvals, and immediate cost cuts. While these help market entry, long-term success depends on steady listings, growth, and reliable access. However, challenges like ingredient variability affecting consistency, functional performance at scale, regulatory documentation, maintaining claims, packaging, and process limits often force brands to switch co-manufacturers, reformulate, redesign packaging, or rebuild documentation. Rushing without a strategy can cause costly problems, such as delayed launches or increased costs, and hurt growth. To avoid this, companies should clarify scale needs, verify experience, agree on compliance and documentation, define quality standards, and plan supplier changes. Clear contracts and exit strategies are crucial for alignment and long-term success. The Difference Between a Pilot Run and Scalable Plant-Based Manufacturing Many people see outsourcing in plant-based food as simple procurement, but it is actually a long-term partnership focused on process. There is a critical difference between: Producing a plant-based product onceandBuilding a repeatable, compliant, scalable manufacturing setup for alternative proteins A good outsourcing roadmap helps close this gap. Step 1: Define EU Compliance and Claim Requirements from the Start Before selecting a co-manufacturer, plant-based scale-ups should define: Allergen positioning and cross-contact realityShelf-life targets under real distribution conditionsPackaging and sustainability requirements12–24-month volume growth expectationsNon-negotiable quality standards Without clear requirements, manufacturing decisions often focus on what is easiest now instead of what will work long-term. To avoid this, founders should talk to regulatory experts to understand key European rules, such as food safety laws, correct nutritional and allergen labelling, and compliance with European Commission sustainability standards. Researching market needs, asking suppliers about their systems and compliance records, and working with experienced manufacturing partners can also help clarify expectations. Taking these steps early sets realistic goals and prevents expensive mistakes. Step 2: Choosing the Right Plant-Based Manufacturing Outsourcing Model Not every plant-based product follows the same path. Common outsourcing models include: Pilot-first plant-based manufacturingFast learning, higher unit cost, limited scalability Scale-ready alternative-protein manufacturingSlower onboarding, stronger systems, better long-term economics Hybrid outsourcing strategyPilot with one partner, scale with another (requires strict control) The biggest risk is not which model you choose but picking one without a clear purpose. Step 3: How to Vet a Plant-Based Food Co-Manufacturer for Long-Term Fit A technical 'yes' is not enough in plant-based manufacturing. Proper vetting should assess: Equipment and process compatibility (extrusion, emulsification, fermentation, etc.). For example, an extruder screw profile that does not match your dough can reduce throughput or cause inconsistent forming. Identifying such equipment bottlenecks during vetting can avert costly, recurring delays.EU documentation readinessCapacity realityRaw material and packaging supply stabilityCommercial structure and exit flexibility Many alternative protein scale-ups lose momentum at this stage. Scaling up plant-based food manufacturing can pose challenges, including supply chain bottlenecks and difficulties in setting up flexible manufacturing networks to meet retailer demands. When working with manufacturers, watch for warning signs such as vague or delayed documentation, limited experience with your product type, overpromising production capacity, or reluctance to share quality certifications and audit reports. If a manufacturer will not run realistic pilot trials or avoid technical discussions, these are also concerns. Spotting these issues early helps prevent costly problems later. Step 4: Compliance: Your Fast-Track, Not Red Tape In plant-based food manufacturing, compliance goes beyond labelling. It includes: Claims validation and legal interpretationAllergen management systemsTraceability and recall readinessFood contact and packaging complianceSupplier declarations If you build compliance into your process early, you can avoid having to reformulate, relabel, or get new approvals later. Step 5: Structured Onboarding for Scalable Plant-Based Contract Manufacturing The onboarding phase determines whether plant-based outsourcing becomes scalable. Best-practice onboarding includes: Final product specificationsTrial protocols and acceptance criteriaShelf-life validationPackaging line trialsDefined quality limitsThis approach shifts plant-based manufacturing from trial-and-error to a more controlled, reliable process. Checklist: Are You Ready to Scale Plant-Based Manufacturing in Europe? Rate yourself from 1 (not at all confident) to 5 (fully confident) for each question below. This quick self-check will show where your strategy is strong and where gaps might put your scaling at risk. Ask yourself: Can our manufacturer realistically support our growth curve? Are EU compliance and claims fully embedded in our documentation? Is our packaging validated at scale?If you score low or are unsure about answers, review your outsourcing strategy before scaling up. Ensuring regulatory compliance is crucial, as gaps can cause legal issues. Consult with your team or a co-manufacturing expert, such as Cibus Nexum, to ensure your strategy is solid and compliant. Acting now boosts confidence and reduces regulatory risks. These tips highlight why careful planning and compliance are vital in the growing plant-based food industry. Why Manufacturing Strategy Determines Success in Plant-Based Food The most successful plant-based brands are not always the ones that launch the fastest. They are the ones that: ✔ Align product innovation with process reality✔ Embed compliance and quality early✔ Build partnerships designed for scale Speed helps you enter the market.But only a strong strategy leads to long-term success and a real competitive advantage. How Cibus Nexum Supports Plant-Based Manufacturing Outsourcing Cibus Nexum helps plant-based and alternative protein companies as independent experts. We usually start with a discovery call to learn about your goals, challenges, and current manufacturing setup. Then, we guide you through co-manufacturer scouting and vetting, roadmap development, and EU compliance planning. At each step, we provide clear deliverables, like supplier shortlists, risk assessments, and detailed action plans. Founders and teams stay involved through regular check-ins and workshops at key milestones, making sure knowledge is shared and everyone feels confident throughout the process. We guide teams through: Co-manufacturer identification and vettingEU-compliant outsourcing strategyIP-safe onboarding and trialsPilot-to-scale roadmap developmentEnd-to-end manufacturing execution We always focus on long-term scalability and do not have exclusive partnerships with any manufacturers. Meet Us at Plant FWD (or Start the Conversation Before) If you plan to scale a plant-based product in 2026, having an Outsourcing Roadmap can help you avoid costly setbacks. Meet us at Plant FWD to discuss your manufacturing roadmap, make-or-buy strategy, or scale-up challenges. Alternatively, book an introductory call before the event to prepare for a focused discussion. We help you turn your innovation into scalable manufacturing, making the process more efficient and helping you avoid expensive mistakes.

25 March 2026

Protecting Plant-Based IP in Manufacturing: Why an NDA Is Only the Beginning

Many founders hesitate to share their plant-based recipes when outsourcing manufacturing. They often say, "We can't share it. It's our edge."This fear can delay outsourcing, even when the business needs to grow. An NDA is important, but it does not fully protect your intellectual property (IP) or your plant-based product. Securing your plant-based recipes depends on how you design processes, control information, and define terms in your contract manufacturing agreements.Why an NDA Alone Doesn’t Protect Your “Secret SauceAn NDA is a legal agreement that sets out expectations and helps ensure those expectations are met.However, NDAs do not cover every risk. You might share your recipe with the wrong people, or your data could spread internally. Manufacturers may learn important process details during trials or use information from your documents to create similar products.NDAs alone are not enough. Use multiple layers of IP protection in plant-based manufacturing through segmented information, process design, and strong contract manufacturing agreements. Consider these safeguards for protecting food innovation and intellectual property.Step 1: Control What You Share (Information Segmentation for Food Manufacturing)Most manufacturers do not need to see your entire document. Break the information into sections and share only what is needed for each stage. Limit access to sensitive data.Only share the necessary details for each step and ensure access is tightly controlled within the team. Keep important information, such as ratios and key steps, confidential. Start with a functional specification and add more details as manufacturing progresses.Keep exact ratios and critical steps within your team. Begin with a functional specification and share more as your partnership grows.Step 2: Protect Key Inputs (Ingredient and Supplier Strategy)If your competitive edge comes from a unique plant-based ingredient blend, treat it as valuable property and protect it with food manufacturing best practices.Pre-blend key components or work with a trusted partner, so manufacturers receive only the finished blend.Limit access to detailed ingredient formulations to necessary personnel only.Monitor supplier contracts closely to stop unauthorised substitutions or manufacturers from sourcing ingredients on their own.Establish clear substitution rules that specify when and how changes happen.These steps help prevent reverse engineering and leakage of your recipe.Pre-blending inputs and using black box ingredients, along with strict contracts, collectively reduce risks. A good manufacturer should be able to make your product reliably without ever seeing your proprietary knowledge.Step 3: Lock Down Manufacturing Process Know-How (Not Just the Plant-Based Recipe)Much of your intellectual property is in the process. Critical details include processing temperatures, shear rates, hydration timing and order, extrusion settings, screw profiles, and precise mixing procedures. Each factor shapes your product’s final texture, yield, and stability.Document key specifications, control and record changes, and restrict manufacturer modifications.These steps protect your process knowledge and ensure you own all improvements.Step 4: Write IP Into the Contract Manufacturing Agreement for Plant-Based BrandsYour agreement should define IP, address who owns improvements, limit similar product development, ensure confidentiality for everyone involved, grant audit rights, and specify how to handle data and materials after the contract ends. Make sure your contract defines IP, including what existed beforehand and what is created during the partnership.Be clear about who owns any improvements to processes or products.Set clear non-compete clauses and explicit limits on whether the manufacturer can develop or produce similar products for other companies during and after your partnership.Make sure confidentiality covers all staff and subcontractors, and establish audit rights and clear rules for handling documents.Decide what will happen to all data, tools, and materials at the end of the contract.With these protections in place, confidentiality becomes routine.Step 5: Choose the Right Partner and Build Trust Through GovernanceChoosing the right partner helps protect your IP.Be on the lookout for warning signs: vague answers about confidentiality, resistance to limiting access, unwillingness to specify subcontractors, broad substitution rights, or hesitation to agree on change control. Build trust by having strong governance. Hold regular meetings, keep decision logs, set clear escalation paths, and outline onboarding and acceptance steps.A Quick Self-Check Before Your Next Manufacturer MeetingBefore your next meeting, check what you need to share. Make sure key ingredients are protected. Review contracts for process terms and the exit plan. If any of these answers are unclear, your IP could still be at risk, even if you have an NDA.How Cibus Nexum Helps Plant-Based Brands Protect Innovation and Intellectual Property While ScalingCibus Nexum helps plant-based brands outsource safely. We organise information disclosure, design black-box strategies, define process specifications, draft contracts, and choose manufacturers with strong controls.Meet Us at Plant FWDScaling in 2026?Are you ready to grow your plant-based business without risking your intellectual property? We can help you develop a solid confidentiality plan for food manufacturing that safeguards your plant-based ideas as you expand.Book an introductory call so we can prepare a focused, practical discussion that meets your needs.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal interpretation of NDAs and contract clauses, consult qualified counsel.

11 March 2026

Cibus Nexum at Plant FWD 2026

📅 Date: April 8–9, 2026📍 Location: Midden Nederland Hallen, the Netherlands🔗 Event info & tickets: https://www.plantfwd.com/Cibus Nexum is once again a partner and exhibitor at this year’s Plant FWD: the leading event shaping the future of plant-based food!As experts in food contract manufacturing and outsourcing, we help plant-based brands scale efficiently, find the right production partners, and navigate the complexities of manufacturing. Whether you’re a startup, brand owner, investor, retailer, or foodservice player, our independent, impartial support helps you scale faster, smarter, and more cost-effectively without losing control.Why Visit Cibus Nexum at Plant FWD?Scaling a plant-based brand comes with real hurdles: selecting the right co-manufacturer, translating recipes to industrial scale, validating processes, protecting IP, and managing cost and quality. That’s where Cibus Nexum comes in.At our booth, we’ll share practical insights on:Outsourcing vs. in-house production – Choosing the right strategy for speed, capex, and risk.Selecting the right contract manufacturer – What to check (and what to avoid) before you sign.Scaling efficiently – From lab to pilot to full production: recipe adjustments, processing parameters, and common pitfalls.Process validation, QA & shelf-life – Building consistency, compliance, and food safety into scale-up.Investment & growth decisions – Making production choices that support fundraising, margins, and long-term scalability.What to Expect at Our BoothIndustry expertise – Straightforward guidance on scaling plant-based production through outsourcing.1-on-1 conversations – Discuss your product, challenges, timelines, and partner options with our team.Who Should Visit?Plant-based startups & brands – Need the right co-manufacturer and scale-up roadmap?Retailers & foodservice providers – Want reliable supply and consistent quality for plant-based expansion?Co-manufacturers & supply chain partners – Open to collaborating on well-prepared, scalable projects?Join Us at Plant FWD 2026!The plant-based market keeps moving fast: your production strategy has to keep up. Cibus Nexum helps you turn innovation into commercial success with the right outsourcing approach, technical validation, and partner-fit: always independent and in your best interest.📅 April 8–9, 2026 | 📍 Midden Nederland Hallen🎟️ Tickets & details: https://www.plantfwd.com/We look forward to seeing you there!

26 February 2026

Case Study: How La Vie Scaled Plant-Based Bacon Across Europe Without Exposing Its IP

La Vie, 77 Foods is a Paris-based player in the European market for meat alternatives. They are involved in retail and foodservice. They gained early success with their plant-based bacon and later added sausages to their lineup. Demand was rising quickly. However, growing a successful product in a competitive market comes with challenges. You need more capacity, reliability, and speed, without losing what makes the product unique.That’s where Cibus Nexum stepped in.At a Glance Client: La Vie, 77 Foods Category: Plant-based meat alternatives (bacon, sausages) Challenge: Scaling issues in downstream processing while expanding production without risking IP Cibus Nexum services: Supply chain strategy and implementation, partner identification, guided exploration and trials, flexible expert support using the FoodFlow method Outcome: IP-secured early production steps, multiple European production hubs, and an agile manufacturing setup designed for growth The Challenge La Vie faced scaling challenges, especially in downstream processing. These stages can easily create bottlenecks as volumes increase, and performance must remain consistent across customers and channels. At the same time, they wanted to grow their production capabilities while keeping tight control over their intellectual property. In the plant-based sector, this combination can be tricky. Growth often requires outsourcing, which can lead to risks like IP leakage, quality issues, and supply chain lock-in.La Vie needed a system that allowed for growth while maintaining control.What Cibus Nexum Delivered Cibus Nexum supported La Vie in two connected phases:1) A solid supply chain design focused on scale and IP protection First, we worked with La Vie to create a supply chain strategy that aligned with their growth goals, production needs, and IP considerations. The aim was not just to “find a factory.” It was to develop an operating model that defined which steps must remain under control and which can be scaled with the right partners.2) Implementation support turning strategy into reality Next, we helped put this strategy into action by:- Setting up the supply chain in practice- Identifying the right partners for processing steps- Guiding exploration and trials to verify feasibility and reduce risks in scaling decisionsThis is where many scaling efforts stall. The strategy may look solid on paper, but the partner landscape, trial results, and operational constraints often require difficult compromises. Our role was to keep progress moving while ensuring quality, speed, and IP protection remained in balance.How We Handled Downstream Scale-up Without Risking IP This project showcases Cibus Nexum’s FoodFlow method in action, guiding a roadmap toward controlled, scaled production, step by step.FoodFlow is especially useful when a brand needs to scale while handling sensitive knowledge. Instead of quickly moving to a single supplier model, we structured decision-making around controlled steps, verified learning loops, and practical partner fits. This approach allowed La Vie to scale confidently.Cibus Nexum also served as an extension of the client’s team, providing flexible expert support to add capacity and production expertise where needed.The Results With the new setup, La Vie is now able to: Secure IP in the early production stages Protecting critical knowledge from the start reduces exposure while still allowing for growth.Operate multiple production hubs in Europe A multi-hub strategy enables La Vie to adjust to local needs and support broader European expansion.Manufacture in an agile setup suited for growth Instead of being limited to a single production path, the supply chain is designed to scale with demand.Why La Vie Chose Cibus Nexum La Vie chose Cibus Nexum because:Our team’s flexibility matched the needs of a rapidly changing scale-up projectOur network of vetted co-manufacturers sped up partner identification and lowered risksOur production expertise across various technology readiness levels helped prevent or navigate common scaling challengesLesson Learned Even with a solid plan, we had to adjust direction several times during the project. The key takeaway: start with a clear plan, but remain open to feedback from manufacturers. Insight from experienced producers can challenge assumptions and refine requirements, often leading to improved scalability and execution.Are You Ready to Scale Up? If you’re looking to expand production for a food innovation and want to maintain control, Cibus Nexum can help you design and implement an outsourcing-ready supply chain that balances speed, partner fit, and IP protection.Want to apply FoodFlow to your scaling roadmap?

25 February 2026

Case Study: Building an International Expansion Strategy with an Anonymous Market Map

Client: French SME dairy & plant-based manufacturer (name anonymised at client request)Market: Europe (with international expansion ambitions)The ProjectAn innovative, socially responsible French SME produces a variety of dairy and plant-based products and supports multiple business models: its own brands, contract manufacturing, private-label programs, and the foodservice industry across Europe. With plans to expand internationally, the leadership team recognised a key issue: before deciding where and how to grow, they needed a clearer, evidence-based understanding of their position in the competitive landscape.They weren’t seeking generic desk research. They required actionable intelligence: Who really matters in the market? What do these players produce? And what are the strengths of the top competitors they would face when expanding beyond their current locations?The ChallengeInternational growth brings up strategic questions quickly:* Which markets are crowded versus underserved?* How do competitors position themselves—by format, capability, or channel focus?* Where are the real capability gaps and opportunities for differentiation?For a manufacturer serving both branded and B2B segments, strategic clarity is crucial. Misinterpreting the market can lead to costly mistakes: chasing the wrong positioning, underestimating competitor strengths, or investing in the wrong narrative. The client’s goal was simple: understand the market better to create the right strategy.What Cibus Nexum DeliveredCibus Nexum conducted a structured market study, using our established European network, diverse sources, and language skills to research efficiently and accurately. A key part of the engagement was our ability to operate independently and anonymously—giving the client market clarity without forcing early outreach or revealing strategic goals.We organised the study in three tiers, moving from broad mapping to detailed competitive analysis:Tier 1: Market universe (comprehensive mapping)Identification of all relevant players in the market landscape.Tier 2: Market structure (geography-filtered insight)For the relevant players in specific geographic areas, we mapped their main product ranges.Tier 3: Competitive edge (range-filtered deep dive)A capability review of the Top 10 competitors, focused on their strengths and market presence.This tiered approach ensured the client didn’t just receive “a list.” They gained a decision-ready view of the market that could inform their strategy.How the Client is Better Off NowThe study provided clear, practical insights that leadership could use right away:Visibility on the number of relevant producers in the market.Clarity on competitors’ capabilities and positioning.A stronger fact base for internal strategic discussions and future planning.In short, the client gained valuable insights to shape the company's international expansion strategy, based on facts, not assumptions.Why Did They Choose Cibus Nexum?Three factors made Cibus Nexum the ideal partner for this work:1. Independent position in the market The client needed an unbiased view, free from conflicting commercial interests.2. Ability to investigate anonymously They wanted credible insights without signalling their plans or creating market noise.3. Network and research expertise to target the right companies The value lay not just in gathering information but in knowing where to look, what to confirm, and how to translate findings into strategy.Lessons Learned This project reinforced a key principle at Cibus Nexum: integrity matters. While we conduct thorough research and market intelligence, we are not “spies,” and we do not approach manufacturers under false pretences. When we contact producers, it is always related to a real project. This protects our credibility and our clients’ reputation in the supply chain.Want This Kind of Strategic Clarity?If you’re planning expansion—into new markets, new channels, or new product areas—Cibus Nexum helps you reduce uncertainty with independent, actionable market intelligence. You’ll know who matters, what they do, and where you can succeed, before making expensive commitments.

18 February 2026

Case Study: Umiami Boosts Sales and Customer Enablement with Cibus Nexum’s Processing Market Scan

The Challenge: Helping Buyers Work with a New Product Format Umiami (now called Swap Foods), a French food tech startup specialising in whole-cut plant-based chicken, has made a significant impact on the alt-protein market. They offer a clean-label solution that mimics the taste and texture of real meat. Unlike many plant-based brands, Umiami does not prioritise branding or packaging. Instead, they sell unbranded whole cuts directly to foodservice clients, including commercial kitchens, institutional buyers, and out-of-home channels.This approach saves the company time and resources on retail-focused product development and branding. However, it also posed a challenge: how to help their B2B clients use these whole cuts effectively. Buyers required guidance on how to handle the product, whether slicing, dicing, battering, frying, or portioning it for various foodservice uses. Umiami also needed insights into where these processing tasks could take place in case clients wanted to outsource that step.The Cibus Nexum Solution: A Focused Processing Ability Market Scan To support Umiami and its potential buyers, Cibus Nexum conducted a focused market scan in the EU. We aimed to identify processing capabilities in the Benelux, Germany, France, and the Nordics, where whole cuts could be further prepared for foodservice.✔ Anonymous Market Scan – Identifying reliable processing partners who could handle tasks like slicing, grill-marking, frying, portioning, and even turning whole cuts into ready meals or salads. ✔ “Menu Card” for Sales Teams – Creating an overview of practical processing options that Umiami’s sales team could share with buyers during discussions. ✔ Operational & Financial Insights – Providing estimated costs, lead times, and processing challenges to help foodservice clients make informed choices. The outcome was a practical toolkit that Umiami could use to assure potential clients that integrating the product into existing menus would go smoothly, whether they processed it in-house or outsourced it.The Results: Faster Sales & Smarter Customer Conversations With the insights and tools from Cibus Nexum, Umiami’s sales team could confidently illustrate how flexible and functional the whole cuts were. The "menu card" approach lets them present a variety of application options, giving chefs and foodservice buyers clear ways to envision the product on their menus.This sped up the sales process by eliminating decision-making obstacles and providing reassurance on costs, lead times, and technical feasibility. At the same time, Umiami gained a better understanding of processing costs and potential third-party partners. This helped their internal teams create more accurate pricing and fulfilment plans.Why Umiami Chose Cibus NexumUmiami chose Cibus Nexum for our speed, network, and technical expertise. We could communicate easily with their Procurement Director, allowing us to transition quickly from brief to action. Additionally, our FoodFinder database provided immediate access to a variety of vetted contract manufacturers across Europe, saving weeks of research and outreach.Our ability to deliver honest market feedback and practical recommendations was highly valued. Instead of just giving names, we helped Umiami rethink how processing could create new sales opportunities.Lessons Learned: Don’t Rush to the Co-Manufacturer A key takeaway from this collaboration was the significance of timing. Clients, especially startups facing investor pressure, may be tempted to contact co-manufacturers too early. We learned the value of setting realistic expectations and advising clients on when to wait, so they can collect the right benchmarking data and identify the best partners based on real comparisons.Need Help Activating a B2B Sales Strategy for New Products? At Cibus Nexum, we focus on connecting product innovation with commercial execution. Whether you are launching a new format or creating a B2B-first go-to-market strategy, we will help you connect with the right processing partners, prepare your sales teams, and ensure your clients are fully equipped to succeed.Let’s collaborate to unlock your market’s full potential.

11 February 2026

Stijn de Bats Leaves Cibus Nexum for New Role at The New Originals Company

After five years at Cibus Nexum, our partner and co-founder, Stijn de Bats, is leaving to take on another challenge. As of 1 February, Stijn will be returning to the place where his career began, stepping in as Plant Manager at SoFine Foods (part of New Originals Company). We would like to take this opportunity to look back on Stijn’s time at Cibus Nexum, including key milestones, and to look ahead to the next chapter for him and for our organisation. Back to the Start More than 25 years before Cibus Nexum, Stijn and Pascal worked together at Leerdammer Company; one was a project manager, the other a procurement manager. They connected and stayed in touch. Years later, they found themselves carpooling to Upfield for a freelance project, exchanging ideas and frustrations about the food innovation landscape. At one point, Pascal shared a dream: “I want to build something. Not just freelance forever.” That dream led to the creation of Cibus Nexum. When it was time to bring in a third partner, alongside Pascal and Arjen, Stijn agreed. “It made sense,” he says. “The food industry was clearly moving toward outsourcing, but there wasn’t a genuine independent centre of expertise; a gap Cibus Nexum was on a mission to fill.” Building Cibus Nexum Looking back, Stijn doesn’t point to a single defining moment. Instead, he highlights a series of key steps, many behind the scenes, but all crucial. Sales and Strategy: “We initially underestimated the importance of marketing and sales,” he recalls with a laugh. We addressed this by bringing in external support, developing the sales funnel, and helping Cibus Nexum craft its story. Finding a Home: Opening the Ede office in 2022 was more than logistics; it provided a sense of identity: proof that the company was real and established. Big Questions: During a strategy retreat in Schoorl, the team confronted tough but essential questions: Why do we exist? What makes us different? This led to new positioning, partnerships, and AI experiments that continue to shape our work. Scaling Up It’s somewhat poetic. A company that helps others scale had to learn to scale itself. The transition from doing everything ourselves to outsourcing to specialists reflects the challenges many of our clients’ face. “That was a big lesson,” Stijn reflects. “You can’t do it all. You have to outsource some tasks and trust others to take it forward.” In a way, Cibus Nexum’s journey mirrors that of our clients: growing sustainably, staying focused, and never compromising on quality. Moments That Mattered Most When asked about highlights, Stijn is quick to respond. Arla Foods: Supporting outsourcing and co-developing a product — a complex but rewarding shift in scope. Fiber Foods: Serving as interim COO and visiting their jackfruit production site in Uganda. “Unforgettable,” he says. Team Tastemakers: For the first time collaborating on a client workshop and developing a model we still use. Oost NL: Exploring the challenges faced by start-ups around shared scaling and delivering valuable insights. Cargill: a challenging project, where we went the extra mile and showed the agility that has become a habit within Cibus Nexum. Each project was unique, but they shared a common thread: collaboration, curiosity, and a strong focus on value. Why Leave Now? Stijn’s decision to leave wasn’t sudden, but it also wasn’t something he had planned. During the acquisition process of SoFine Foods in Landgraaf, now part of The New Originals Company, Stijn got involved through Cibus Nexum. It turned out to be the same factory where he started his career after university. It felt familiar, meaningful, and full of promise. What began as an interim role evolved into something more. When the opportunity for a permanent position arose, he had to make a decision. “You can’t do both,” he explains. “Being fulltime in The New Originals Company meant I couldn’t be fully present at Cibus Nexum anymore.” So Stijn has accepted the offer to become the Plant Manager at The New Originals Company in Landgraaf. What’s Next? Stijn is stepping into a significant role: leading the Landgraaf plant and overseeing around 100 people. This new challenge excites him. “I’m looking forward to being fully focused again, not splitting my time between responsibilities,” he says. “There’s a lot of energy and complexity there. It’s going to stretch me in a good way.” And what about Cibus Nexum? Cibus Nexum is now in a strong position, thanks to the hard work we have put in over the last 5 years. We’ve completed more than 100 projects for over 60 clients, grown our team and network, and sharpened our focus as the go-to partner for outsourcing in food production in Europe. A Thank You That’s Hard to Put into Words Before leaving, Stijn had some thoughts he wanted to share. With Pascal and Arjen, the team, the clients, and collaborators. “It’s been an amazing journey — definitely outside my comfort zone, and I’m sure outside theirs too. But that’s how you grow. You get thrown into the water and start swimming.” “I’m grateful for the opportunity — and I know Cibus Nexum will keep growing. I wish them all the best. Not just success, but joy too.” Closing Thoughts At Cibus Nexum, we often talk about scaling journeys. This one feels personal. As Stijn takes on a new role, he leaves behind more than accomplishments. He leaves a culture: one of experimentation, honesty, and shared ambition. We take pride in what we’ve built together. We’re excited to carry it forward. Good luck, Stijn. We’ll be cheering you on from here.

29 January 2026

Webinar Series: Agile Innovation & Upscaling: Unlocking Success for Startups

As a food startup founder, you have a lot to think about. Not least, using limited funds efficiently and finding a way to get your product onto shelves. This free 2-part webinar series on Agile Innovation and Upscaling has got your back to streamline your success. Experts Dr. Raphaëlle O’Connor, Director and Founder of inewtrition, and Arjen van der Wijk, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Cibus Nexum, have a combined 50+ years’ experience in food innovation and know what it takes to go from concept to putting a product on the market.During this series, Raphaëlle and Arjen will share their collective knowledge to equip you with what you need to know to get started on setting up your supply chain, working with co-manufacturers, and getting your food innovation on shelves.By joining this webinar, you’ll be able to accelerate your journey to the market while keeping costs low. Are you ready? Part 1: Thursday 14 NovemberIn the first webinar, we dove into the following topics: • What is agile upscaling • Finding the purpose – what’s your story? • Who is your audience – identifying your ideal clients • What are the challenges when upscaling? • Roadmap to launching: product to market and route to market • Deciding whether to make (produce yourself) or buy (outsource)? • Protecting your IP and/or recipeDownload the slidesPart 2: Thursday 28 NovemberDuring part 2 of our webinar series, recorded on Thursday 28 November 2024, we explained how you can leverage external expertise by collaborating with specialized consultants, such as Cibus Nexum and inewtrition, who can provide invaluable support throughout the product development lifecycle. These experts bring extensive industry knowledge, cutting-edge methodologies, and vast networks that can help mitigate various operational risks. In the webinar, we covered risk mitigation strategies in detail, including: 1. Comprehensive Risk Register: Collaborating with seasoned professionals can assist in planning and conducting thorough risk assessments within the external supply network. This helps identify potential pitfalls in areas such as food safety, product quality, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance. A proactive approach allows companies to anticipate and address challenges before they escalate.2. Regulatory Compliance: The food and beverage industry is subject to stringent regulations. Working with consultants can help navigate the complex regulatory landscape, ensuring that new products meet all necessary standards and minimizing the risk of costly non-compliance issues. 3. Quality Control and Product Consistency: Industry experts can implement robust quality control measures and help maintain product consistency across different production facilities, thereby minimizing the risk of product recalls and damage to reputation. 4. Supply Chain and Logistics Optimization: Cibus Nexum can assist in developing resilient supply chain strategies, reducing the risk of disruptions, and ensuring a steady flow of high-quality ingredients and materials. 5. Enhancing and Accelerating Innovation Processes: By adopting a structured approach to product development and leveraging proven methodologies like the FoodFlow Method offered by Cibus Nexum, companies can adopt a more efficient strategy, reducing uncertainties and minimizing the risk of project delays or failures.6. Real-Option Analysis: Utilizing advanced analytics platforms like In4sight® from inewtrition can provide leaders with actionable insights, enabling more informed decision-making and reducing the likelihood of costly delays or product failures.By viewing the webinar recording, leaders and decision-makers can gain valuable insights into how external experts can support their product development and innovation efforts. This knowledge can help companies: Streamline their development processes Identify and mitigate potential risks early in the product lifecycle Ensure regulatory compliance and product safety Optimize resource allocation and reduce unnecessary expenses Increase the probability of successful product launches We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, 28 November!Download the slidesMeet the expert speakersDr. Raphaëlle O’Connorinewtrition Founder and Director25-year F&B industry veteran working for household names such as Nestle, Johnson & Johnson, Amgen, and Pfizer. Leveraging a diverse network of partnerships and collaborators, Raphaëlle is now a global lead in customised & precision nutrition.raphaelle@inewtrition.comArjen van der WijkManaging Partner and Co-Founder of Cibus NexumYour Swiss Army Knife in innovative food production management, working with Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Kraft Heinz, Cargill, and Friesland Campina, among others. Passionate about connecting people and businesses, Arjen brings to the table a profound expertise in outsourced food production.arjen.vanderwijk@cibusnexum.comAbout inewtritionWe help companies improve their portfolios or develop new product ideas to meet consumer demands for healthier, functional, and sustainable foods. Our consulting services support businesses with scientific knowledge, food-tech expertise, and connections with a global network of industry-experienced specialists.About Cibus NexumWe’re reshaping the food production landscape. It’s all about connecting brand owners, retailers and producers through our FoodFlow Method to enable and champion food innovation. We are an innovative team of industry experts, deploying our 75 years+ experience to deliver our clients the best solutions.

01 November 2024

EU Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control: A Guide for UK Food Brands

Expanding a UK food brand into the European Union (EU) presents exciting opportunities, but it also brings regulatory, labelling, and quality control challenges. The EU's food safety standards are among the strictest in the world, and brands need to ensure that their products comply with these regulations to succeed in the market. In this blog, we’ll explore the main challenges that UK food brands face in navigating regulatory compliance, labelling requirements, and maintaining product quality across borders—and how Cibus Nexum’s FoodFlow Method can offer effective solutions to overcome these obstacles. The Challenges of Expanding into the EU 1. Regulatory Compliance: Meeting EU Food Safety Standards The EU has a stringent regulatory framework governing food safety. UK food brands must adhere to laws such as the General Food Law (Regulation (EC) No 178/2002), which sets out the general principles of food safety, hygiene, and traceability across the food supply chain. Compliance with frameworks like Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) is also essential to prevent and manage potential food safety hazards. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, delays, or rejection from the EU market. You can learn more about the EU’s General Food Law on the European Food Safety Authority website. If your food product is considered a novel food, it will need to undergo a thorough safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Novel foods in the EU are those that were not widely consumed in the EU before May 15, 1997. These foods include new sources of nutrients, ingredients derived from plants or insects, or innovative production processes (such as nanotechnology). For a UK food brand planning to introduce a novel food into the EU market, the company must submit a detailed application, including scientific evidence proving the food's safety for consumption. Approval from the EFSA is necessary before placing the product on the EU market. Compliance with the EU's Novel Food Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2015/2283) is crucial to avoid legal and financial penalties. For more information, you can visit EFSA's Novel Foods page. 2. Labelling and Language Requirements Labelling food products in the EU is a complex task, governed by EU Regulation 1169/2011, which outlines specific requirements for nutritional information, allergens, expiration dates, and other essential details, such as QUID (Quantitative Ingredient Declaration). Labels must be provided in the official language(s) of each EU country where the product is sold. These regulations are quite complex, and it is sometimes difficult to identify the correct interpretation. Failure to comply with labelling regulations can lead to fines, product recalls, or market access issues. Non-compliance with EU regulations has been proven to be a disastrous element in being successful when entering the EU food market. 3. Quality Control: Ensuring Consistent Product Quality Across Borders Outsourcing production to different manufacturers within the EU can pose risks to product consistency. Variability in quality can damage your brand’s reputation and lead to customer dissatisfaction. Without stringent quality control systems in place, it’s impossible to maintain consistent standards across different production facilities. How to Meet EU Food Safety Standards Food Safety Standards are notoriously stringent in the European Union, which can be daunting for a food brand looking to expand to the EU. Cibus Nexum can help you ensure compliance with these complex EU food safety standards through our network of EU-based manufacturers. By outsourcing production to these trusted partners, your brand can meet all regulatory requirements from the outset, avoiding the pitfalls of non-compliance. Our FoodFlow Method guarantees that every step of the production process—whether ingredient sourcing or final packaging—meets EU safety regulations. Compliance with EU regulations as well as quality assurance is one of the key topics throughout every step of the FoodFlow Method. This allows your brand to seamlessly operate within the EU’s regulatory framework and effectively derisk every regulatory and quality-related issue. Getting the Details Right on Food Packaging in the EU As a food brand entering the EU market, labelling can be overwhelming. Cibus Nexum can guide you through the labelling and certification process, ensuring your products comply with local language requirements and securing necessary certifications where applicable. By partnering with us, UK food brands can easily adapt their packaging to meet the specific labelling and marketing regulations of each EU member state. Our expertise and network also ensure that your products are certified correctly (e.g. organic, gluten-free, vegan), giving you a competitive edge. For more information on EU food labeling regulations, visit EU Regulation 1169/2011. Cibus Nexum also anticipates regulations that will be implemented in the coming years, such as the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), which will probably be effective in 2026. It is in our DNA to make sure we have expertise at hand, to ensure you will be compliant with these regulations as well. Ensure Consistent Quality When Outsourcing Food Manufacturing Cibus Nexum’s FoodFlow Method ensures that all manufacturing partners adhere to strict quality control standards. Our process includes regular audits, quality checks, and real-time monitoring to ensure that products meet the same high standards, no matter where they are produced. This not only safeguards your brand’s reputation but also guarantees that every product reaching the EU market meets customer expectations. Case Study: A Seamless Expansion into the EU by a UK Plant-based Dairy brand One of our clients, a UK-based plant-based dairy brand, was struggling to navigate the complex landscape of EU food safety regulations and labelling requirements. They faced delays due to regulatory hurdles and were uncertain about how to ensure consistent product quality across multiple EU markets. By partnering with Cibus Nexum, they were able to outsource production to EU-based manufacturers who were familiar with local regulations and quality standards. We ensured their product labels were compliant with both French and German requirements, and we implemented robust quality control measures to maintain product consistency. As a result, the company successfully expanded into the EU market, increasing its brand presence without compromising on quality. Conclusion Expanding your UK food brand into the EU comes with many complex challenges, but these can be navigated with the right partner and by engaging with the expert approach that Cibus Nexum offers. Cibus Nexum’s FoodFlow Method simplifies the process, ensuring regulatory compliance, proper labelling, and consistent product quality. By partnering with Cibus Nexum, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the complexities of the EU’s food industry regulations. Ready to expand your brand into the EU with confidence? Contact us today to schedule an introductory call and learn how our FoodFlow Method can help you navigate regulatory compliance and ensure seamless market entry.

19 September 2024

Make or buy

In the rapidly evolving food industry, every business leader, from CEOs to Supply Chain Managers, faces a fundamental choice: produce in-house or outsource? This decision, often referred to as the 'make or buy' choice, is crucial for business operations and can have a significant impact on both the financial health and market position of a company.The 'make or buy' decision goes beyond the simple choice between internal production of goods or outsourcing to external suppliers. It's a strategic consideration that affects various aspects of a business, including cost control, quality management, product innovation, and market competitiveness. This decision becomes even more complex due to the unique challenges and opportunities in the food industry, where changing consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements play a continual role.

27 March 2024

Case Study: How Danone Transformed Dairy Cream into Strategic Profit with Cibus Nexum

The Challenge: Underutilized Cream Streams Across Multiple SitesDanone, a global leader in health-focused food products spanning dairy, plant-based foods, early life nutrition, and bottled water, operates several large-scale dairy factories across Europe. In these plants, raw milk is standardized to reduce fat and protein levels, producing a valuable by-product: high-fat dairy cream.This cream, rich in both fat (around 40%) and protein, has traditionally been sold through a mix of annual contracts and spot market deals. However, these sales had limited flexibility and involved a small, recurring set of buyers, mostly focused on butter production. Danone suspected there was untapped potential in this sidestream and wanted to explore new ways to increase its overall valorization.The Cibus Nexum Solution: Market Intelligence Meets Strategic SourcingDanone engaged Cibus Nexum for an in-depth, impartial analysis. Our team conducted a comprehensive review of the company’s cream sales across the last three years, both spot and fixed contract pricing.We compared Danone’s internal pricing outcomes with prevailing European benchmarks and indexes for cream and butter, identifying both missed margins and strategic risk. From there, we expanded the scope to include:✔ A European Market Scan – Mapping out a wide range of alternative cream processors, including those focused on butter oil, ghee, and ice cream production, not just butter.✔ Contractor Network Analysis – Reviewing existing buyer relationships and uncovering over-reliance on a narrow customer base.✔ Sales Strategy Recommendations – Identifying how to reposition Danone from a price-taker to a price-maker in the dairy cream market.Importantly, Cibus Nexum acted independently, without ties to dairy brokers, ensuring that the strategy was built in Danone’s best interest.The Results: From Market Follower to Market MakerThe outcome of the engagement was transformative. Danone moved from having a limited and relatively passive position in the dairy cream supply chain to establishing a diversified, competitive network of buyers.Armed with new insight and a broader set of commercial options, Danone strengthened its negotiation power, both for long-term contracts and spot deals. The business transitioned from a market follower to a market maker, capable of steering its own pricing strategies with more authority.This repositioning enabled Danone to better valorize its surplus cream, unlocking new revenue potential from existing production streams.Why Danone Chose Cibus NexumWhile many players in the dairy space offer brokerage or trading services, Cibus Nexum stood out because of one key factor: independence. As an impartial, strategy-focused consultancy, we had no stake in the outcomes and no hidden interests; something that’s rare in the dairy sector.Additionally, our ability to analyze complex multi-site operations and engage with stakeholders at the C-level ensured that our recommendations were both actionable and aligned with Danone’s broader business goals.Lessons Learned: Don't Overlook the Details in B2B Supply ChainsOne operational insight that emerged during the project was the misalignment in documentation expectations. Some prospective buyers required cream specification sheets no older than two years, but Danone’s internal process used a longer update cycle. This minor but critical mismatch could have blocked potential partnerships, highlighting the need for B2B readiness not just in volume and pricing, but in documentation and compliance.Need Help Unlocking Hidden Value in Your Supply Chain?If your business is sitting on a valuable by-product or wants to revisit long-standing outsourcing and sales practices, Cibus Nexum offers the strategy, market insight, and independent perspective to help you rethink the status quo.Let’s talk about how to turn your side streams into strategic assets.

Winning Strategies for Co-Manufacturers and Ingredient Innovators in 2026

Cheapest to Most Trusted: Winning Strategies for Co-Manufacturers and Ingredient Innovators in 2026For years, “best price per kilo” was the best way for co-manufacturers (CMs) and ingredient innovators to win new business. That time is coming to an end. While retailers and brands still care about cost, they now place more importance on reliability, speed to scale, and safe launches amid shorter cycles, stricter claims, and more compliance pressures.By 2026, the winners won’t be the cheapest; they’ll be the most trusted.This article looks at what “Proof of Trust” means in practice, how ingredient developers can shift from suppliers to co-creators, and how our FoodFlow Method provides a clear way to show your reliability to the right buyers.The shift: why reliability beats €/kgAcross Europe, category and PL teams face new expectations:Launch products faster (measured in months, not years)Manage multiple parallel projects (using small batches, frequent changeovers)Adapt to stricter regulations (claims, packaging, traceability)Safeguard brand reputation (as recalls are more expensive than they seem)As these teams evaluate partners, price becomes only one part of a broader decision matrix. Their key questions include:Can you reliably meet specifications?How quickly do you respond to engineering changes and claims?What’s your proven performance with similar SKUs?Is your documentation and digital traceability sufficient for our QA standards?How quickly can you scale up if needed?If your commercial proposition is just “we’re eager and low-cost,” you’ll lose out to competitors who show reliability with data, solid processes, and strong governance.What “Proof of Trust” looks like for co-manufacturersProof of Trust is not just a brochure claim. It is a collection of evidence that lowers a buyer’s risk and speeds up their decision-making. Co-manufacturers should make the following visible:Process & line fit (by product type)What formats, viscosities, inclusions, allergens, temperatures and pack types do you run well today?Show examples with yields, CCPs, and hold/accept criteria that match the buyer’s category.QA maturity & traceabilityCertification stack (BRC/IFS etc.) is the baseline.Elevate with digital batch records, complaint stats, investigation speed, and supplier approval discipline.First-run data & learning loopCapture outcomes from pilots and first industrial runs: right-first-time %, rework, waste, OEE proxies.Show how learnings improved the second and third runs.Changeover logic & agilityHow do you handle high-mix, low-volume portfolios without chaos?Demonstrate SMED-style thinking, sanitation protocols, and scheduling rules.Service levels & escalationPresent your governance rhythm (weekly ops calls, KPI dashboard, CAPA flow).Clarify who decides what under time pressure (and how fast).Capacity & scale pathA credible plan to double output when the SKU lands — including staffing, tooling, and secondary lines.When buyers see this package clearly, the discussion shifts from “what’s your €/kg” to “how do we start trials.”Ingredient innovators: from supplier to co-creatorThe main challenge with new or plant-based ingredients isn’t the specification sheet; it’s showing how they work in real-world applications. You must demonstrate that your ingredients perform consistently on a commercial scale. They should deliver the desired yield and quality under production limitations.To shift from being a supplier to a co-creator:Start with a real use case. Focus on proven applications, such as a low sugar spread that meets specific viscosity, water activity, and heat requirements.Choose the right contract manufacturer. Look for partners whose technology and quality systems match your process, not just those with available capacity.Design trials together. Agree on clear success criteria, sampling plans, and decision points before production begins.Provide documentation. Gather batch records, deviation logs, yield curves, and shelf-life data for the quality assurance teams of your buyers.Use proof as a sales tool. A clear “Operational Proof Pack” is much more convincing than a generic brochure.Following this process, you’re not just pitching an ingredient; you’re offering ready-to-scale solutions with less risk.FoodFlow: structure that buyers (and auditors) can trustCibus Nexum acts as an independent partner for food outsourcing. We do not produce or own factories. Our role is to bring structure to scaling, so brands, contract manufacturers, and ingredient teams can move faster and safer.We call this the FoodFlow Method: four steps that align commercial intent with operational reality:DesignTranslate the commercial brief into operational requirements: product/pack specs, certifications, CCPs, capacity, changeover logic, economics and risk profile. Align stakeholders on what “good” looks like.FindRun an independent European market scan. Shortlist best-fit partners (not just available ones). Structure due diligence: site visits, history on similar products, QA maturity, people and governance.OnboardSet the validation path: trial design, documentation set, QA gates, claims substantiation, and data exchange. Define roles and escalation. Get contracts that protect IP, margin, and flexibility.LaunchAccompany first industrial runs with a shared KPI dashboard (right-first-time, yield, complaints, non-conformances). Agree contingencies upfront. Capture learning for next SKUs and backup sourcing.This structure is compelling to buyers because it lowers uncertainty. It’s compelling to CMs and ingredient teams because it shortens sales cycles and raises win rates with the right customers.Explore the method here: FoodFlow Method.Quick wins you can actionPublish a capability matrix (1 page): formats, lines, MOQ ranges, allergens, changeover constraints, certifications, typical yields.Create a “first-run plan” template you can tailor for each client: KPIs, hold/accept rules, sampling, escalation, contingency.Instrument the run. If you can’t extract line data, set a manual data protocol, but capture it. Buyers forgive less-than-perfect data; they won’t forgive no data.Package evidence. Turn pilot and first-run outputs into a clean “Operational Proof Pack” (PDF): 5–7 charts/tables that answer QA’s first questions.Train for co-creation. Teach your commercial team to sell reliability and validation, not just price and capacity.Common pitfalls to avoidOverpromising line fit. A small mismatch at the pilot stage becomes a big problem at scale.Skipping the run-at-rate plan. “Let’s see how it goes” is not a strategy. Agree on the plan, KPIs and thresholds first.Treating QA as a hurdle. QA is your sales ally. Give them evidence; they will champion you internally.Chasing every brief. Focus on where you can be the most trusted, not just the lowest-cost bidder.Planning 2026? Meet us at Fi EuropeIf you’re thinking about changes to your outsourcing setup in 2026, like adding more plant-based SKUs, trying new formats, finding backup sources, or switching from samples to real applications, now is a good time to share ideas.Fi Europe 2025 – Paris Expo Porte de VersaillesHall 7.3 – Stand J23 (Netherlands Pavilion)2–4 December 2025Event page: https://cibusnexum.com/fi-europe-2025Or, if you prefer, reach us via the contact form and we’ll point you to the right expert on our team: https://cibusnexum.com/contactAbout Cibus NexumCibus Nexum is an independent food-outsourcing partner. We don’t produce and we don’t own factories. We help brands, retailers, co-manufacturers and ingredient innovators design, find, onboard and launch with the right partners — so you can scale faster, with less risk.

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Cibus Nexum Blog

How to Enter the Dutch Food Ecosystem: Guide for Inter­na­tional Food Scale-Ups Ready to Launch or Expand in the EU

The Out­sourc­ing Roadmap: Why the First Batch Isn’t a Strat­e­gy in Plant-Based Food Man­u­fac­tur­ing

Pro­tect­ing Plant-Based IP in Man­u­fac­tur­ing: Why an NDA Is Only the Be­gin­ning

Cibus Nexum at Plant FWD 2026

Case Study: How La Vie Scaled Plant-Based Bacon Across Eu­rope With­out Ex­pos­ing Its IP

Case Study: Build­ing an In­ter­na­tion­al Ex­pan­sion Strat­e­gy with an Anony­mous Mar­ket Map

Case Study: Umi­a­mi Boosts Sales and Cus­tomer En­able­ment with Cibus Nex­um’s Pro­cess­ing Mar­ket Scan

Stijn de Bats Leaves Cibus Nexum for New Role at The New Orig­i­nals Com­pa­ny

We­bi­nar Se­ries: Agile In­no­va­tion & Up­scal­ing: Un­lock­ing Suc­cess for Star­tups

EU Reg­u­la­to­ry Com­pli­ance and Qual­i­ty Con­trol: A Guide for UK Food Brands