Spicewell Bucks CPG Winter, Announces Major Retail Expansion and Fresh Funding

Spicewell Announces New Funding Round to Revolutionize the Pantry with Vegetable Enhanced Salts and Peppers : Brighter. Bolder. Better for you Pantry Essentials.

LOS ANGELES, CA, September 24, 2024 – Spicewell, the world’s first nutrient-enhanced, Ayurvedic salt and pepper company, proudly announces a new funding round to further its mission of transforming the pantry into a source of health and wellness. The company has raised over $1 million from a diverse group of investors in an oversubscribed pre-seed round, including Path Ahead Ventures (REI), Joyance Partners, Entrepreneur Ventures (Entrepreneur Media), Ashton Kutcher & Mila Kunis, Joanne Bradford (Pinterest, Honey), and many other leaders in health and wellness, who share Spicewell’s vision of a healthier future.

"We are inspired by Spicewell’s innovative approach to making nutrition accessible and convenient,” said Payam Daniel Abbassian, REI Path Ahead Ventures Investment Director. “We find their expansion into the outdoor industry is especially exciting, providing portable, nutrient-rich options for active lifestyles. Spicewell is truly pioneering a new era of 'food as medicine,' aligning with the future of health and wellness.”

Spicewell is revolutionizing the spice aisle by introducing the first clean label and functional salt and pepper that do more than just season food; they provide essential vitamins and minerals that help bridge the nutrient gap contributing to chronic illnesses. Each half teaspoon serving of Spicewell’s innovative products delivers 10% of the daily recommended vitamins, without requiring a change in consumers’ habits.

Innovative Products that Support Health and Wellness

Spicewell’s New Salt is 30% lower in sodium than regular salt and blended with 12 organic vegetables. The New Pepper is enhanced with organic vegetables and turmeric, following an ancient recipe recognized for its anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits. Both products are clean label, double lab tested for toxic heavy metals and microplastics, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free.

“Our goal is to take something as fundamental as salt and pepper—used daily by billions— and enhance it with vitamins and minerals to help address nutrient deficiencies,” said Raina, founder of Spicewell. “We’re making the pantry as functional as the medicine cabinet, and this funding round allows us to scale our vision, bringing health and wellness into every kitchen. Salt is such an overlooked ingredient - but we can make a huge impact by improving this one staple.”

Retail and Market Expansion

Spicewell is set to make a significant market impact with plans to be in over 250 retail stores by January 2025. The products are launching in Thrive Market this week and are available in 22 states across 350 existing doors, including Erewhon, The Fresh Market, and specialty stores nationwide. Additionally, the company has secured food service partnerships with Compass Group and others, further expanding its reach and influence as a key ingredient.

Expert Backing and Sustainable Practices

Spicewell’s innovative approach to pantry staples is supported by a team of expert advisors, including functional medicine expert Dr. Mark Hyman, Ann Veneman (former USDA Secretary & Nestlé board member), Ayurvedic doctors, nutritionists and leaders in consumer brands among others. The company is committed to sustainability and plastic free packaging, with all packaging being recycled or compostable, and has been carbon neutral from day one through tree planting offsets and as 1% for the Planet members. They work with a certified B-corp for sourcing their Sea Salt which helps to fund a regenerative trust to protect the local watershed.

Investment and Future Growth

Spicewell’s seed funding came from influential angel investors including Jing Gao of Fly by Jing, who also serves as an advisor, and Anjali Kumar, Warby Parker’s first general counsel. With this new funding, Spicewell’s future includes product line expansion, increased market presence, and continued advocacy for higher food standards in the US, beginning with the pantry.

"Spicewell sits perfectly at the intersection of health and flavor, creating an entire category of its own in the seasonings industry," said Investment Partner Charles Smith. "Drawing from Ayurvedic concepts and the idea of food as medicine, Raina’s personal story adds to Spicewell’s exceptional and captivating brand, and we are thrilled to support her vision of promoting health and wellness in every kitchen."

“Spicewell is leading a transformative approach to how we think about pantry staples. Their innovative products not only add flavor but also provide essential nutrients that can make a real difference in people's lives,” said Jonathan Hung of Entrepreneur Ventures. “We are excited to support Spicewell as they expand their market presence and continue to innovate in the health and wellness space.”

“We are thrilled to have the support of such a diverse and accomplished group of investors who believe in our mission,” added Raina. “This funding is not just a financial milestone; it’s a validation of our commitment to changing the way people think about the way they eat.”

About Spicewell

Spicewell is a pioneering food company dedicated to enhancing everyday pantry staples with essential nutrients. By infusing everyday spices like salt and pepper with vitamins and minerals derived from organic vegetables, Spicewell offers a simple way to combat nutrient deficiencies and promote better health. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and clean ingredients and sourcing, Spicewell is redefining the standard for pantry essentials.

Media Contact:

Nicole Kaldes, Spicewell PR

646-249-0713