Gusto Snacks

Gusto Snacks is a UK-based company that produces air-dried fruit crisps from “imperfect” produce that would otherwise go to waste. The company aims to offer healthy, sustainable snacking options and combat food waste. As of October 2024, Gusto's product line included vegan, gluten-free crisps, made from apples sourced through alternative supply routes. The company uses an air-drying process to preserve nutrients and flavor while replicating the crunchiness of traditional potato chips. It then adds a squeeze of natural fruit juice and seasoning to add an extra twist of flavor to the crisps.

As of 2024, Gusto offers its crisps in various flavors, including mango juice, chocolate and salted caramel, coconut, and passion fruit and mango, sourced from farm-rejected fruits. It claims that while being sustainable through upcycling fruits, its crisps contain no added sugar and are low in calories and high in fiber.

Gusto gained popularity among health-conscious consumers and families looking for nutritious snacks. The company launched its products in 2019 during the Covid-19 pandemic and officially entered the market in 2021. Following this, Gusto entered the Startups 100 Index, securing the 98th spot among the 100 fastest-growing UK startups for 2024.

As of January 2024, the company saved over four tons of apples from going to waste, equivalent to 50,000 units. Gusto Snacks aimed to save over 60,000 tons of fruit in the next five years. The company's products were available in major UK retailers such as Selfridges and WHSmith, as well as on Amazon. 

Key customers and partnerships

As of October 2024, Gusto Snacks had entered major retail channels in the UK, with its products available at Selfridges, WHSmith, and on Amazon. Gusto Snacks also partnered with British farmers to source “imperfect” fruits, helping them become more sustainable and potentially increase profitability.