High Time Foods, a Bengaluru-based food-tech startup, has raised $1.2 million in a seed funding round led by early-stage investor Avaana Capital, with participation from angel investors.
The funding will be allocated towards product development, team expansion, and strengthening partnerships across India, the U.S., and emerging markets in the Global South.
Founded in 2022 by Aakash Shah and Damian Felchlin, High Time Foods develops shelf-stable, plant-based protein solutions aimed at addressing the widespread protein deficiency in regions lacking cold chain infrastructure.
Originally launched in the U.S., the company has now relocated its headquarters to India following the funding round. India is expected to contribute 25% of the business, while 75% will come from international markets.
The company currently serves over 30 B2B clients, including food manufacturers, educational institutions, and foodservice providers. It aims to establish 50 B2B partnerships in India by the end of 2025, with a focus on the HORECA (hotels, restaurants, catering) segment and food manufacturers.
Cofounder Damian Felchlin stated:
“A significant portion of the funds will go into building our food R&D team. We’re also looking to hire professionals with sales and culinary backgrounds.”
Aakash Shah added:
“Around 70% of the country is protein-deficient. Our product is affordable and doesn’t require water or refrigeration, making it ideal for Indian infrastructure.”
High Time Foods also plans to expand into Africa, particularly West Africa, where it is collaborating with one of the region’s largest food distributors. Following successful customer testing, a market test launch is planned within the next 3 to 6 months.
Shruti Srivastava, Investment Director at Avaana Capital, commented:
“High Time Foods is solving a critical gap in food systems—affordable, scalable protein. Their shelf-stable innovation is perfectly suited for real-world infrastructure limitations.”
