Salmon
Paprika
Hamburger
Raspberry ice cream
Strawberries
Croissants
Coffee beans

Cibus Nexum Blog

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

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 on Thursday 28 November, we will explain 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 will cover 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. 

09 December 2024
EU Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control: A Guide for UK Food Brands

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
Mastering Private Label Manufacturing in the Food Industry

Mas­ter­ing Pri­vate Label Man­u­fac­tur­ing in the Food In­dus­try

Welcome to our exploration of private label manufacturing in the dynamic food industry. This concept, while offering immense opportunities for brand growth and product innovation, comes with its unique set of complexities. Our aim is to guide you through these intricacies, offering insights and solutions for a successful venture in this field.At the heart of private label manufacturing lies the opportunity for retailers and brand owners to create products under their own brand, but produced by third-party manufacturers. This approach allows for greater control over product development, branding, and marketing strategies. However, it's not without its challenges. The journey from product conception to market launch is riddled with potential pitfalls – understanding and managing the supply chain, ensuring product quality and compliance with regulations, and aligning the product with market needs and consumer preferences.A common misconception in private label manufacturing is the underestimation of these complexities. Many assume that simply finding a manufacturer to produce a product is enough. However, the reality is far more nuanced. From crafting a product that resonates with your brand identity to navigating the logistics of supply chains and market introduction, every step requires careful consideration and strategic planning.Our objective here is to delve into these challenges, providing you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the private label manufacturing landscape effectively. We'll uncover the common blunders, introduce you to alternative approaches, and highlight how Cibus Nexum, with its expertise and innovative FoodFlow Method, can be your ally in this journey.Join us as we embark on this insightful exploration, designed to empower you in making informed decisions and achieving success in the world of private label manufacturing in the food industry.

10 December 2024
Plant-Based Manufacturing in Dairy: Embracing Innovation and Overcoming Challenges

Plant-Based Man­u­fac­tur­ing in Dairy: Em­brac­ing In­no­va­tion and Over­com­ing Chal­lenges

Introduction: The Rise of Plant-Based Dairy AlternativesAs the world leans towards sustainability and health-conscious choices, the dairy industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. The traditional focus on animal-based products like milk, cheese, and yogurt is being reevaluated in light of a growing trend: plant-based dairy alternatives. This shift isn't just a fad; it's a reflection of changing consumer preferences and a deeper awareness of dietary and environmental impacts.However, this transition is not without its complexities. One common misconception is that shifting to plant-based dairy is a straightforward process, merely about replacing one ingredient with another. In reality, it involves a multifaceted transformation that touches every aspect of production – from research and development to marketing and distribution. Traditional dairy companies, especially large cooperatives with farmer-owners, face unique challenges. They must navigate technological gaps, resource allocation, stakeholder interests, and the need for rapid adaptability in a market that's drastically different from their standard operations.Understanding these complexities is essential. It's not just about introducing a new product line; it's about rethinking the entire production and business model to meet the evolving demands of the market and the planet. This blog post aims to delve into these challenges, offering insights and solutions for dairy companies looking to make a successful transition to the plant-based realm.

10 December 2024
How Cibus Nexum’s Collaboration with GrowinCo Will Set New Industry Standards

How Cibus Nex­um’s Col­lab­o­ra­tion with Grow­in­Co Will Set New In­dus­try Stan­dards

Amsterdam, Netherlands / Curitiba, Brazil – March 27, 2024Cibus Nexum B.V., the independent partner in the food industry for product development and contract manufacturing, is proud to announce its collaboration with GrowinCo. This partnership marks a strategic alliance with GrowinCo., the leading co-manufacturing platform for the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. GrowinCo’s expertise lies in seamlessly connecting CPG companies with co-manufacturers, co-packers, and suppliers of ingredients and packaging.This collaboration leverages GrowinCo’s state-of-the-art technology and extensive network, enabling Cibus Nexum to offer its clients a more diverse and flexible range of manufacturing options. The integration of GrowinCo’s platform with Cibus Nexum’s FoodFlow Method enhances our ability to support our clients throughout the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation to launch. GrowinCo’s commitment to facilitating efficient and cost-effective manufacturing solutions aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative and sustainable production strategies for the food industry.This partnership between Cibus Nexum in the Netherlands and GrowinCo in Brazil unites advanced European market expertise with South American technological innovation, creating a unique, global collaboration that spans continents, enhancing service delivery and fostering international growth in the food industry."Our technology, combined with Cibus Nexum's expertise, now offers the most comprehensive network of co-manufacturers and top-notch R&D capabilities. This will empower companies to create superior products in an integrated and much faster manner," says Raphael Traticoski, GrowinCo’s Chief Executive Officer.“The collaboration with the GrowinCo team adds up to both our proposition, supporting brands and scaleups with the best fit co-manufacturing setup. During the entire process from ideation to launch, our clients can rely on tailor-made support and advice. Besides a significantly reduced time-to-market deploying the platform technology, they can still experience the benefits of incognito engagement with potential production partners”, says Arjen van der Wijk, Managing Partner at Cibus Nexum.About GrowinCo:GrowinCo is a co-manufacturing and sourcing platform for the CPG industry. The platform connects CPG companies with idle capacity at co-packers, contract manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and packaging suppliers, enabling CPG companies to bring new products to market more quickly and cost-effectively. Founded in 2019 by two former Mondelez executives, GrowinCo is headquartered in Curitiba, Brazil, with offices in São Paulo and Chicago, USA.About Cibus Nexum:Cibus Nexum is a product development & contract manufacturing consultancy based in the Netherlands. Bringing over 75 years of food industry expertise, it has pioneered innovative solutions to assist food brands and scaleups in successfully developing, launching, and scaling their outsourced production.Media Contact:Stijn de BatsManaging PartnerCibus Nexum B.V.info@cibusnexum.com+31 85 4883687

10 December 2024
Navigating the Challenges of Expanding a Food Business from the UK into the EU Post-Brexit

Na­vi­ga­ting the Chal­len­ges of Ex­pan­ding a Food Bu­si­ness from the UK into the EU Post-Brexit

Expanding a food business from the UK into the European Union (EU) presents numerous opportunities but also significant challenges, especially in the post-Brexit landscape. Regulatory changes, logistical hurdles, and increased trade barriers have created a more complex environment for market entry and growth. To successfully navigate these challenges, strategic planning and expert guidance are crucial. That’s why we’ve created this blog series where we explore how outsourcing can overcome these challenges and how Cibus Nexum, with its unique FoodFlow Method, provides comprehensive solutions to ensure a seamless and successful expansion into the EU as a British food brand.  Over the next few weeks, we will delve into specific challenges, offering insights and practical solutions to help your business thrive in the EU.This is what to expect Blog 1: Overcoming Tariffs, Trade Barriers, and Legal Challenges Challenges Covered: Tariffs, trade barriers, customs procedures, and legal and tax considerations. Solution Presented: How outsourcing production and leveraging Cibus Nexum’s expertise can mitigate these financial and logistical challenges, ensuring compliance and cost efficiency. Blog 2: Navigating EU Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control Challenges Covered: Regulatory compliance, labeling and marketing requirements, and maintaining quality control. Solution Presented: Utilizing Cibus Nexum’s knowledge of EU regulations and their network of compliant manufacturers to ensure all standards are met seamlessly. Blog 3: Streamlining Logistics and Managing Supply Chain Partnerships Challenges Covered: Logistics and supply chain management, identifying reliable partners, partner selection and management, and maintaining supply chain visibility. Solution Presented: Optimizing logistics through established EU-based partners and maintaining control and transparency with Cibus Nexum’s supply chain solutions. Blog 4: Overcoming Cultural and Communication Barriers Challenges Covered: Managing cultural differences and communication barriers in EU partnerships. Solution Presented: Utilizing Cibus Nexum’s expertise in cross-cultural communication to effectively manage partnerships and navigate cultural nuances. Blog 5: Protecting Intellectual Property in the EU Challenges Covered: Risks of intellectual property theft and misuse when outsourcing production. Solution Presented: Implementing strong contracts and IP protection measures with the help of Cibus Nexum to safeguard your innovations. Blog 6: Cost Management in Outsourced Production Challenges Covered: Managing costs associated with outsourcing production within the EU. Solution Presented: Identifying cost-effective solutions and partners through Cibus Nexum’s network to optimize production costs without compromising quality. Blog 7: Managing Dependency on External Partners Challenges Covered: Risks associated with dependency on external partners for production and distribution. Solution Presented: Building strong, reliable partnerships and maintaining flexibility through Cibus Nexum’s strategic partner management. Conclusion In this series, we aim to guide you through the complexities of expanding your food business into the EU post-Brexit. Each blog focuses on a specific challenge, providing detailed insights and practical solutions through outsourcing and the expertise of Cibus Nexum and its FoodFlow Method. Together, we'll help you transform the challenges of Brexit into opportunities for growth and success. 

10 December 2024
Understanding Tariffs, Trade Obstacles, and Legal Hurdles After Brexit: A Food Brand's Strategy

Un­der­stand­ing Tar­iffs, Trade Ob­sta­cles, and Legal Hur­dles After Brex­it: A Food Brand's Strat­e­gy

The process of expanding a food business from the UK into the European Union (EU) post-Brexit presents both opportunities and challenges. The landscape has shifted significantly, with the emergence of tariffs, trade barriers, and complex customs procedures impacting UK food brands. In this blog, we will examine these challenges and showcase how partnering with Cibus Nexum and leveraging its unique FoodFlow Method can offer effective solutions in this post-Brexit era. Three Challenges to Consider 1. Tariffs and Trade Barriers The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) allows for tariff-free trade between the UK and the EU, but only if goods meet specific Rules of Origin requirements. This means that UK products must be able to prove they were made or significantly altered in the UK or EU to qualify for zero tariffs. If goods do not meet these rules, they may be subject to tariffs, which can increase costs and reduce competitiveness (see more at  GOV.UK and European Commission).  2. Customs Procedures Since the withdrawal period ended in January 2021, full customs controls have been in place, requiring all goods exported from the UK to the EU to undergo customs checks. This includes submitting customs declarations, ensuring products comply with safety, security, and environmental standards, and potentially facing delays at the border due to these checks. This complexity adds to the administrative burden and can result in increased costs (See more at: House of Commons Library and GOV.UK).  Besides that, shipping over fresh products might become a problem considering the limited shelf life. 3. Legal and Tax Considerations Post-Brexit, UK businesses must navigate differing legal and tax regimes across various EU member states, with non-compliance leading to fines and legal penalties. (House of Commons Library). Tackling Tariffs and Trade Barriers Post-Brexit As mentioned earlier in this blog, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) allows for tariff-free trade, conditional on products meeting specific Rules of Origin requirements. Failure to comply can lead to UK products facing tariffs, which in turn increases costs and reduces competitiveness. To address this challenge, Cibus Nexum offers a solution for UK food & beverage companies. By ensuring that products meet the necessary Rules of Origin requirements, Cibus Nexum enables these brands to benefit from tariff-free access to the EU market. Through Cibus Nexum's network of EU-based manufacturers, UK brands can outsource parts of the production process to the EU. This strategy not only ensures compliance with the Rules of Origin but also allows the final product to be classified as EU-originating, effectively eliminating the risk of tariffs. Additionally, Cibus Nexum's expertise in navigating complex regulations can save time and reduce administrative burdens, empowering businesses to focus on growth.Understanding and Simplifying Custom Procedures Post-Brexit Since Brexit, companies exporting goods from the UK to the EU have faced increased complexity and costs due to full customs checks and declarations. Fortunately, Cibus Nexum knows these pitfalls. By strategically outsourcing production to facilities based in the EU, companies can significantly reduce the delays and associated costs incurred during the export process. This innovative approach not only simplifies customs processes but also offers businesses a strategic advantage in navigating the new post-Brexit trading landscape. By providing a detailed and integrated solution, Cibus Nexum enables companies to adapt to the evolving regulatory environment, ensuring a smoother and more efficient export experience. Navigating Legal and Tax Considerations In the wake of Brexit, UK businesses are faced with the challenge of understanding and adhering to the varying legal and tax regulations across different EU member states. Non-compliance with these regulations could result in substantial fines and legal consequences. By leveraging the expertise and support provided by Cibus Nexum, UK businesses can confidently navigate the complex landscape of legal and tax considerations within the EU, ensuring that they remain compliant and avoid potential financial and legal setbacks. Case study One of our clients, a plant-based meat manufacturer, faced significant delays and increased costs due to tariffs and customs procedures. By partnering with Cibus Nexum, they outsourced production to a facility in the European Union. This move eliminated tariffs and streamlined customs processes, allowing the company to reduce costs and increase market presence in the EU. The transition was seamless, thanks to Cibus Nexum's comprehensive support and expert guidance. Conclusion Cibus Nexum provides a strong solution for UK food brands looking to expand into the EU after Brexit. By teaming up with Cibus Nexum and utilizing their extensive network and expertise, UK brands can handle tariffs, simplify customs procedures, and ensure legal and tax compliance. This sets the stage for successful market entry and growth in the EU.  For more information on overcoming post-Brexit challenges and expanding your food business into the EU, reach out to Cibus Nexum today to discover how their FoodFlow Method can assist you in navigating tariffs, trade barriers, and customs procedures effortlessly. 

10 December 2024
Question?
Pascal Ruzius
close

Call me back request

One moment please...