Umami expands microgreens farming with $4.6 million funding round

Zurich-based start-up UMAMI is set to expand its microgreens and herbs production capacity with a new indoor farm, which will use 90% less water and land compared to traditional greenhouses. The company, known for its innovative approach to agriculture, secured $4.6 million in a recent Series A financing round to fund this project. The new facility will allow UMAMI to increase its output fivefold in response to growing consumer demand for pesticide-free, locally grown produce.

Founded in 2018, UMAMI has become a notable player in the indoor farming sector, growing microgreens, herbs, mussels, and sauces. The company relies on bio-natural ecosystems, replicating nature’s processes without the use of artificial pesticides, antibiotics, or fertilizers. Its innovative approach incorporates over 100 species of animals and 150 types of plants, creating a sustainable and diverse farming environment.

The new farm in Zurich’s Altstetten district will feature a biological recirculation system, a key component in reducing water and land use. This system will also rely on UMAMI’s own biologically produced fertilizer. Currently, the company operates out of an industrial hall in the same district, producing microgreens that are valued for their high levels of essential oils, vitamins, proteins, and minerals.

As part of its expansion, UMAMI plans to establish a research and development department at the new site. This division will focus on cultivating new products, with initial efforts aimed at crops like tomatoes and strawberries. Co-founder Denis Weinberg noted that the increased production capacity will allow UMAMI to better meet the rising demand for sustainable, local food sources, while maintaining high standards for both quality and environmental impact.

With its continued growth and commitment to reshaping agriculture through vertical farming, UMAMI is positioning itself as a key player in the future of sustainable food production.