Fiber Foods Startup Boosts Sustainability and Jobs in Uganda
Amsterdam, Thursday, 16 October 2025.
Fiber Foods, co-founded by Inez van Oord and Ineke Aquarius, innovates with dried jackfruit as a meat alternative, promoting sustainability and creating jobs for Ugandan women.
Innovative Solutions with Dried Jackfruit
Fiber Foods, a pioneering startup co-founded by Inez van Oord and Ineke Aquarius, is making waves in the green innovation sector by offering dried jackfruit as a sustainable meat alternative. This initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also provides significant employment opportunities for women in Uganda [1]. The innovative approach of drying jackfruit, as opposed to canning, offers advantages such as increased durability, reduced shipping space, and a smaller carbon footprint, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change [1].
Economic Empowerment for Ugandan Women
By processing jackfruit in Uganda and exporting it to the Netherlands, Fiber Foods has created valuable job opportunities for women, empowering them economically and socially [1]. The startup employs a team of about 8 people in Uganda, contributing to the local economy and providing a sustainable source of income for hundreds of women involved in harvesting and processing the fruit [1]. This initiative aligns with the broader trend of businesses integrating social responsibility into their operations, demonstrating that economic impact can coexist with environmental goals.
Strategic Collaborations and Market Penetration
Fiber Foods’ collaboration with major brands like McDonald’s and McCain led to the creation of a vegetarian jackfruit-based McKroket, initially controversial but now a staple alongside its meat counterpart in the Netherlands [1]. This partnership highlights the potential for hybrid meat-plant products to gain traction in traditional meat markets, thereby reducing meat consumption and its associated environmental impact. Such collaborations exemplify how strategic partnerships can facilitate market penetration and acceptance of sustainable alternatives.
The Nutritional and Environmental Edge of Jackfruit
Jackfruit is not only a versatile meat substitute but also boasts a rich nutritional profile, including high levels of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which support immune function and digestive health [2][3]. Its low-calorie content and high fiber levels make it an ideal component of a weight management diet [3]. The environmental benefits of jackfruit cultivation include its ability to thrive in tropical climates without the need for intensive water or chemical inputs, making it a promising candidate for sustainable food production [3].