German confectionery manufacturer Katjes Group has invested in Berlin-based ‘superfood’ start-up The Rainforest Company via its investment arm Katjesfreenfood.

Katjesgreenfood now owns 10% of the two-year-old company but the amount it has invested has not been disclosed.

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The move is Katjesgreenfood’s ninth investment since it was founded in 2016.

The Rainforest Company produces frozen açaí puree, a ‘superfood’ from the Brazilian rainforest used for breakfast bowls or smoothies. It is based on berries which are harvested by hand.

The product was developed by Swiss founder Albana Rama in collaboration with fitness guru Pamela Reif, who also acts as brand ambassador. 

The purple puree has been on sale since March in more than 3,500 supermarkets in German-speaking countries, including big name German grocers Rewe and Edeka.

The Rainforest Company plans to use Katjesgreenfood’s investment money to bring a ready-to-eat Açaí-Bowl to the market. 

It is already generating sales in the “six-digit Euro range,” Katjes said.

The company donates money for every product sold towards reforesting the rainforest. 

Rama said: “With Katjesgreenfood, we have brought on board a strategic partner who supports us not only with capital, but also with his strong network and valuable know-how.” 

Dr. Manon Sarah Littek, CEO of Katjesgreenfood, said: “The Rainforest Company is the pioneer for sustainable açaí and offers a world novelty with the high-pressure pasteurized To-Go Açaí- Bowl. The Rainforest Company’s combination of wild harvests, direct, non-intermediary sourcing and local social engagement makes it a role model for social entrepreneurship.”

Asked how it would contribute to the start-up’s growth, a Katjesgreenfood spokesperson said: “We know how to build brands. [In] everything related to marketing and sales we can be very useful. For example, we have already given advice on the new logo.” 

See just-food’s guide: Big Food’s Stake in the Future – In-House Venture Capital Funds