DUG is a Swedish model with roots in science and analysis at Lund College. It was there that the patented emulsion expertise was developed, forming the premise for the model’s vegan-friendly, potato-based milk options. In keeping with the corporate, these different drinks have a really low carbon footprint and can be utilized like some other milk. The DUG model is owned by DUG Foodtech AB.
Helene Nielsen has been CEO of DUG Foodtech since 2023 and has greater than twenty years of expertise in gross sales and export within the FMCG sector. Stints at manufacturers similar to Oatly, Tweek and Sproud have made her an completed chief within the European foodtech market. With a specific concentrate on constructing worldwide markets – from retail to espresso and OOH – she has labored with each distributors and direct gross sales. She began her profession in gross sales at Eniro, the place she received a number of awards. At this time at DUG, she is driving the mission to revolutionize the trade with modern, potato-based merchandise.
On this interview, Helene discusses DUG’s mission to revolutionize the plant-based milk trade with modern, potato-based options, the sustainability advantages of utilizing potatoes, and the corporate’s plans for future development and worldwide enlargement.
What’s DUG and what does the corporate stand for?
DUG is a product from DUG Foodtech AB, based in 2016 by Prof. Eva Tornberg in Lund, Sweden. She developed a patented course of on the college there that transforms potatoes, rapeseed oil, pea protein and water right into a heat-resistant, milk-like drink. Excellent for anybody who needs to get pleasure from a plant-based and sustainable drink with out compromising on style. We efficiently promote our milk options in Sweden, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland – and now additionally in Germany.
What are some great benefits of potatoes in comparison with cereals and beans?
Potatoes comprise little fats and little sugar – particularly in comparison with oats, which naturally comprise sugar. As a substitute, they comprise beneficial vitamins similar to vitamin C and a few B nutritional vitamins, minerals similar to potassium and iron and high-quality proteins. What’s extra, the potato drink is free from frequent allergens similar to soy, nuts, lactose or gluten – making it appropriate for folks with intolerances or diabetes.
Why ought to retailers undoubtedly listing you?
The potato could be very standard in lots of elements of Europe. And rightly so: potatoes are extra versatile than nearly some other meals. Our potato drink is splendidly creamy and is good not just for the proper froth in your espresso, but in addition for cooking and baking. I’m positive the Germans will love potato drink.
How sustainable is your potato drink?
Plant-based is at all times higher than cow-based milk. However the potato can also be extraordinarily resource-efficient in comparison with different plant-based options. It makes use of 96 % much less water than almonds in cultivation, requires solely half as a lot land as oats and has a 67 % higher carbon footprint than cow’s milk.
What does your present product portfolio appear to be?
In Germany, DUG is at the moment obtainable in three varieties: “DUG Unique” for muesli, porridge or pancakes, “DUG Barista” for cappuccino, latte & co. and “DUG Unsweetened”, i.e. with out added sugar, for cooking and baking. Model new available on the market, however not but obtainable in Germany, is our “DUG Barista Unsweetened” – the primary potato-based milk different with no added sugar that has been specifically developed to be used in espresso.
Do you even have particular containers for meals service?
We’re nonetheless solely supplying meals service with our regular 1-liter tetrapaks. However we’re open to requests.
What are your plans for the subsequent few years?
Within the coming years, my focus will probably be on the sustainable development of DUG Foodtech and worldwide enlargement. We wish to drive innovation within the plant-based meals sector – particularly with our patented potato-based milk options. Our purpose is to additional increase our place in crucial European markets. In the long run, we dream of working our personal manufacturing facility in each nation – near the patron, with regionally grown potato flakes and minimal influence on the local weather.
