The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Alice in a chocolate wonderland
Entrepreneur benefits from RGU accelerator programme to launch her sugar-free healthy option sweet business
An RGU graduate has turned her passion for chocolate into a business, that aims to reduce the nation’s sugar consumption.
Alice Foster has founded Coco Unai, and she hopes the healthy recipe will appeal to those in search of a sweet treat without the high sugar content.
“Coco Unai is unlike any other combination on the market,” she said.
“I like to think that I’m standing up for everyone like me who wants to cut down on their sugar consumption.
“If I can offer something that tastes nice, is sugar free and if it has a positive effect on society and issues we have in the region around obesity then that’s absolutely great – my vision is to promote the UK in a healthier way of living without cutting back on quality or flavour.
“One of my biggest passions is sugar free – it is something that I’ve always had an interest in and something that I’ve always tried to cut out.
“Obesity and sugar consumption is a big issue for the UK and we can’t ignore it. We are in a world where everything is about convenience, but there is so much hidden sugar in convenience food – even things like sandwiches and fruit juices.”
Coco Unai is one of 25 businesses to successfully complete RGU’s Startup Accelerator programme, the only funded programme of its kind in the north-east of Scotland. It has supported Alice with funding, expertise and mentorship to shape the commercial side of her business.
“Through the accelerator I have managed to access and meet a lot of people who have expert knowledge in the sugar-free industry,” said Alice.
“As I do not have a science background, it’s been great to educate myself and learn along the way. Throughout this process I have met with more than 18 mentors, nutritionists, dietetic doctors, food science specialists and industry professionals, as well as undertaken sugar alternative research. I feel super lucky to have been accepted on to the accelerator.
Speaking about the future of Coco Unai, Alice continued: “I aim to expand my artisan baking outwith my kitchen and outsource a specifically designed work space for production.
“From there I hope to meet with larger potential suppliers targeting the UK, such as upmarket food halls and cafes and strengthening my brand presence and story.”