Bioma Colombia, an emerging startup in the agro-food sector, is pioneering the production of organic lulo in regenerative agroforestry systems. Led by Melissa Sampayo and Felipe Zuluaga, the company has successfully demonstrated its production capacity through a pilot test, obtaining 600 kilos of lulo in a small cultivation area. This achievement is just the beginning of what could eventually be a significant expansion, with capacity to scale up the production to meet the growing demand in the international markets, especially in Europe.
A pilot model with potential for expansion
Bioma's lulo cultivation, currently carried out on over 700 square meters, has been planned to maximize efficiency and sustainability. With 97 plants, 47 of which are in full production, the pilot test has not only proven the project's viability, but also its high productivity. "This pilot project has confirmed the potential of lulo in agroforestry systems, with a view to scaling up production by integrating more local producers, whom we are training in regenerative practices," says Zuluaga.
Bioma's approach is not only limited to production; it also takes ecosystem regeneration into account, striving for the preservation of endangered species, such as wax palm and high altitude cedar. This commitment to biodiversity not only leads to an improvement of soil health and water quality, but also positions lulo as a sustainable and environmentally responsible product.
The lulo produced by Bioma has caught the attention of customers in Germany, where its exotic taste and nutritional properties (it is rich in antioxidants) make it highly attractive. Despite the challenges involved in its export, including having to meet some strict phytosanitary standards in the European Union, Bioma is well positioned to make the most of this opportunity. "We are working to obtain the organic certification, which would open even more doors for us in the international market," says Sampayo.
In addition to working with fresh lulo, Bioma is looking into new ways to process its products and diversify its range. The company is developing dehydrated lulo, infusions, and lulo chocolates, which are not only expanding the range, but also providing added value that can help reach new markets.
A sustainable future with investment opportunities
Bioma Colombia is not just growing lulo; it is growing a vision. Its focus on regenerative agro-food systems has shown that it is possible to combine profitability with sustainability. With a growing market for healthy, antioxidant-rich products, lulo has the potential to become a superfood in the international market. And with the expansion of its production capacity, Bioma is poised to lead this transformation, positioning lulo as a premium product on a global scale.
To take this vision to the next level, Bioma is looking for investment opportunities or financial support. The idea is to be able to significantly scale up its production. "Our pilot test has been a success, and now we are ready to expand," says Sampayo. With the right support, Bioma Colombia could increase its production capacity and meet the growing demand, both nationally and internationally, strengthening its position as a leader in regenerative agriculture.
For more information:
Bioma Colombia
Melissa Sampayo
Felipe Zuluaga
Tel.: +57 319 3791826
[email protected]
www.biomacolombia.org