AKUA

AKUA, a New York-based company, specialized in creating plant-based foods from kelp seaweed. The company launched its first product, kelp jerky, in 2019, followed by kelp burgers in 2021 and kelp-based crab cakes in 2022. AKUA's products were sold in over 1,000 retail stores and served by more than 100 foodservice customers across the US. The company focused on ocean farming kelp, which grows through photosynthesis without the need for freshwater, land, fertilizer, or feed. This process not only sequestered carbon and nitrogen from the water but also helped reduce local ocean acidification, increase biodiversity, and support marine life. AKUA's approach was described as regenerative, aiming to leave the oceans and planet healthier. The company's kelp burgers gained popularity, with 22,000 sold in the first six months before the official launch and an additional 10,000 during the launch week in May 2021. Despite its innovative approach and initial success, AKUA faced challenges in the competitive plant-based food market. In August 2024, the company's board made the decision to wind up operations due to factors such as slim margins, competition from supply chain partners, and a general decline in the plant-based movement.

Key customers and partnerships

AKUA's products were distributed through independent US retail stores and select restaurants. The company had successfully scaled its kelp burgers into over 1,000 retail locations and partnered with more than 100 foodservice customers across the US. AKUA's kelp burgers received positive reviews from notable figures, including Sir Richard Branson, and were featured in publications such as Bon Appétit and Well+Good.