Eat Better Foods' partner Justine Dampt discusses the inspiration behind launching the company, and why its latest product, the almond mylk base, is going to be a hit with customers
What was the inspiration behind launching Eat Better Foods? Can you share when it launched and how long it was in development?
We are two partners, both of us have known each other for more than two years. At the peak of COVID, in March 2020, the over reliance of the industry on imports (especially in the healthy foodstuff category) meant shelves were empty and at times retailers were out of stock on essential pantry foods. Our goal was to create a solution to this problem, here in the UAE. We are both experienced entrepreneurs with deep roots in Dubai, who wanted to lead this change, both for our own families and the community. We had to be quick, especially in the COVID context; from idea to shelf for the first product was 75 days.
What, in your opinion, makes the products from Eat Better Foods appealing? How do they differentiate themselves in the market?
Our mission is to empower consumers to choose healthier and more natural nutrition. All our products are plant-based and gluten free and we encourage our consumer to create their own version of a healthier lifestyle, #eatbetteryourway is our motto. We know that consumers seek better alternatives and more honest products (clean label, preservative-free) made out of natural ingredients, and this is exactly why Eat Better Foods exists. The only reason why consumers don't make the best choices is because of taste, access and price. Our competitive edge is to lead innovation here in the UAE, and bring to market fresh ideas, creative, and good for your foods that are accessible to all. Being local allows us to be agile and adapt our products to regional tastes and flavors.
Let’s get into a little more detail about the newly launched almond mylk base; what makes this particularly interesting to consumers?
The concept of mylk base is rooted in flexibility, with a paste-like formulation, allowing for versatile consistencies that can be used for a variety of recipes, including soups, sauces, smoothies, and more. All this with one ingredient only; Almonds. There are no preservatives or fillers. Making one litre of fresh, natural almond milk is as simple as mixing three tablespoons of the base with one litre of water and blending for 30 seconds. In addition, the homemade aspect of the mylk base allows optional sweeteners of preference. The milk will last 5 days refrigerated and the base itself has a 1 year shelf life. Aligned with our brand values of sustainability, every component of the mylk base packaging is recyclable - just one jar of the product saves three cartons from a landfill.
To sum up, retailed exclusively at Spinneys and Waitrose at AED 35 for one jar, our Almond Mylk Base makes at least three litres of almond milk, and it offers a cost-effective, natural, eco-friendly and preservative/nasties-free option to the alternatives in the market.
Are there any new products in development that we should watch out for that you can share with us?
Lots. We are going to be expanding our already innovative Coconut Wrap range and bringing new innovation into the snacking category as well. With all the products we launch, one thing is for sure; they will continue to be 100% preservative-free, all natural and provide a 'better for you' alternative so all our consumers can eat better, in their own way. Stay tuned and #eatbetteryourway.
