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In this episode, we welcome Hema Reddy, the founder and CEO of Crafty Counter / Wunder Eggs, to discuss their recent success in winning Albertsons' innovation launch pad competition. Hema shares the details of the competitive pitch process and the exciting opportunity this presents for Wunder Eggs to expand distribution through Albertsons' vast network of stores.

Hema also explains the inspiration behind Crafty Counter's plant-based Wunder Eggs product, tracing her personal journey towards a vegan lifestyle and the eye-opening realisations that led her to want to create more plant-based alternatives, particularly in the egg category. She delves into the troubling realities of industrial animal agriculture, including issues around animal welfare, labour conditions, and environmental impact, which motivated her to pivot the company's focus.

Hema goes on to describe the inhumane practices within the egg industry, such as the mass killing of male chicks, as well as the misleading labelling around "free-range" and "organic" eggs that still involve unethical conditions for the chickens. She is determined to provide consumers with truly ethical and sustainable egg alternatives through Crafty Counter's growing product line.

Regarding sourcing ingredients, Hema explains how Crafty Counter uses non-GMO, kosher nuts and coconut milk, with plans to transition to organic as the business scales. She also discusses the company's consideration of consumer requests for nut-free options, though the unique texture and flavour of nuts were crucial to replicating the egg experience.

Hema shares details on Crafty Counter's rapidly expanding retail footprint, with the products now available in over 1,000 stores nationwide, including major chains like Whole Foods, Wegmans, and Costco. She highlights their incredible consumer response, with many customers expressing gratitude for providing an egg alternative they can enjoy again after years of intolerance.

Looking ahead, Hema outlines Crafty Counter's plans to raise a $5 million seed round to fuel further growth within the US and potentially expand to Canada and other international markets. She emphasizes the importance of finding mission-aligned investors who can be true partners in the company's vision.

In closing, Hema advises those looking to adopt a more plant-based lifestyle encouraging a gradual, sustainable approach that aligns with one's motivations and values. This episode provides a deep dive into the opportunities and challenges facing a purpose-driven food startup disrupting the mainstream egg industry.

About PLANT CEO
As more people adopt plant-based diets or cut back on meat, innovative start-ups are rising to meet the demand for sustainable alternatives to traditional animal products.

Anant Joshi, the show host, explores the entrepreneurs behind this movement, reimagining meat, dairy, seafood, fashion, health and beauty in eco-conscious ways. The audience will hear the inspirational stories of these pioneers building the next generation of compassionate companies.

The show features exclusive one-on-one interviews with influential voices from documentaries, associations, sports, and entertainment who champion and invest in cruelty-free, planet-positive living.

Viewers can tune in as the host takes them inside the promise and challenges of creating kinder solutions for people, animals and the planet. From milk made from plants to leather without cows, these changemakers are developing creative solutions for kinder, greener living.

As host, Anant will discuss his own journey to plant-based living and his passion for highlighting the game-changers driving this movement. Join him as he explores the fascinating world of plant-based innovation.

https://plantceo.com