Sparkfood by Sonae

Sparkfood, a subsidiary of the multinational Portuguese holding Sonae, is dedicated to investing in groundbreaking companies that push the boundaries of health and microbiome science. The firm operates through platforms such as Alternative.s and Ingredient.s, targeting the next generation of European companies committed to sustainable and healthy food solutions. Sparkfood's investment approach includes acquiring and operating small to mid-cap companies within the food industry and investing in startups through early-stage, minority, hands-on investments.

The firm's investment strategy emphasizes sectors like food technology, health, biotech, agriculture, and sustainable agriculture. Sparkfood focuses on companies specializing in innovative ingredients, with strong know-how, proven experience, and relevant market positions. The firm has a global geographical focus, including countries such as Portugal, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.

Sparkfood's commitment to innovation is evident in its acquisition of a 89.1% stake in Diorren SAS, the holding company of BCF Life Sciences, for €160.5 million in April 2024. BCF Life Sciences specializes in producing high-quality amino acids for the pharmaceutical, animal nutrition, and biostimulant industries. This acquisition aligns with Sparkfood's strategy to create a global platform in the food tech industry by acquiring companies specialized in innovative ingredients, contributing to a more sustainable future and expanding Sonae's international footprint.