Heura

Heura is a Spanish plant-based meat startup that develops meat alternatives from high-protein and GMO-free legumes. The company uses a moisture extrusion process to maintain the meat-like texture of its products and mixes extra virgin olive oil, thyme, basil, cumin, and other natural ingredients to create its products. The Heura portfolio includes plant-based beef, pork, chicken, and seafood alternatives. As of July 2022, the company had a retail footprint of 18,000 locations, and a global presence in 13 countries including the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, France, and Portugal.

In May 2022 , it launched Good Rebel Tech (GRT), a platform to develop micro and macronutrient-rich foods in order to reduce food waste and enhance the benefits of plant-based meats. In January 2023 , the company launched its first plant-based fish range with the release of F’sh Fillet and F’sh Fingers. Later, in October 2023 , Heura expanded its vegan portfolio with Jamon York style (York ham style) slices, made using the patent-pending thermo-mechanical technology.

Key customers and partnerships

In January 2022, Heura partnered with Neat Burger to develop vegan chicken nuggets. Heura also launched what they claim is the world's first 100% vegan chorizo burger at Madrid’s Zielou restaurant in March 2022. In April 2022 , the startup partnered with BOSH to release a novel, innovative, and exclusive plant-based Chorizo Burger. 

Further, in July 2023 , Heura collaborated with 450 schools across the Iberian peninsula to supply plant-based meats for school meals. The company planned to expand the program to 550 schools and reach other European regions, including France, Italy, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.  In February 2024 , Heura announced plans to form a strategic partnership with Upfield to expedite plant-based innovation.

Funding and financials

In its latest funding round in February 2024 , the company raised EUR 40 million (~USD 43 million) in a Series B funding round led by Upfield, with participation from Unovis Asset Management, European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF VC), and New Tree Impact. The funds were earmarked for international expansions and exploring new collaboration strategies beyond its existing line of meat alternatives to achieve profitability, drive innovation, and expand its tech patents portfolio.