@AuManufacturing Conversations Episode 8 — Dr Shafali Gupta and Andy Epifani from Uuvipak

In episode eight of @AuManufacturing Conversations with Brent Balinski, we speak to Dr Shafali Gupta and Andy Epifani, the co-founders and co-CEOs of Uuvipak.

The cell biologist and the software engineer met last year and are currently commercialising a novel food waste-based solution, turning grain and beverage industry waste into single-use plastic substitutes that are home-compostable.

And here’s the kicker – you can eat their cups and bowls when you’re done with them.

Gupta and Epifani are currently part of the Ocean Impact Accelerator, and are preparing to launch a Kickstarter this month followed by a capital raise later in the year.

Episode guide:

1:20 – Origin story. Targeting landfill, emissions, and plastics through their product.

3:15 – Previous business (Andy) and leaving the lab (Shafali.)

5:18 – Adapting compression moulding to transform food and beverage waste. Starting out with edible plastics.

7:02 – Types of waste used.

7:35 – What does it taste like?

8 – Changing laws around cups with plastic liners.

10:10 – What logistics will look like working with with grocers and grain producers.

11:20 – R&D. Teaming up with Dr Vassilis Kontogiorgos of University of Queensland to be able to use a broader range of waste materials.

12:04 – Choosing to manufacture in-house rather than use a contract manufacturer.

13:58 – What they are learning from accelerator programs.

14:04 – Planned capital raise this year and Great Wrap’s recent Series A round.

15:07 – “There is something missing in Australia.” 

17:10 – Australian Made.

17:40 – Upcoming Kickstarter.

If you enjoy the conversation, please subscribe, leave a review via the podcast platform of your choice, and help us spread the word.

Picture: Epifani and Gupta with the company’s disposable bowls (supplied)

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