Two Female Alt Protein Founders From New Zealand Named on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia List

Mrinali (Milli) Kumar , co-founder and CEO of EatKinda, was recognised in the Arts category, while Emily McIsaac , co-founder and COO of Daisy Lab, was named in the Industry, Manufacturing & Energy category. About EatKinda EatKinda is claimed to be the world’s first cauliflower ice cream brand, and was co-founded by Kumar and plant-based chef Jenni Matheson. It upcycles cosmetically imperfect cauliflower into a frozen dessert free of dairy, gluten, nuts, and soy. © EatKinda EatKinda introduced at New Zealand supermarkets in 2023, gaining national distribution and international interest. The products are packaged in 100% home-compostable tubs.

The name is now scaling into the US marketplace, and is currently working to secure manufacturing, retail, and investment partnerships to bring its products to American shelves. These proteins have the same functionality as traditional dairy, enabling the production of more sustainable dairy alternatives. Daisy Lab has received financing from local VCs such as Icehouse Ventures and Outset Ventures. Is focused on partnering with dairy processors to scale a climate-resilient protein supply. “Alt-protein isn’t a fringe category anymore,” stated McIsaac. “This recognition is a reminder that science-led solutions, even from a small country like New Zealand, are now shaping the future of global food systems.”