"FACE TO FACE WITH": NATURA HUMANA

January 2025

Natura Humana is a young and passionate company, born five years ago in Apulia (Italy), in the heart of the Mediterranean tradition. We are dedicated to creating healthy and innovative carob-based products, thanks to a patented cold extraction method that preserves all its nutritional qualities. All our products are vegan, natural, low glycemic index and without added sugar, because we are convinced that wellness can also be delicious.

1. Organic, vegan or vegetarian, plant-based, functional, free-from or rich in: which of these product areas does your company fall into and why did you choose to invest in that segment?

Natura Humana is at the crossroads of different areas, but our identity is mainly defined as plant-based, functional and free from, with a strong orientation towards organic. We are in organic transition to obtain formal recognition, even though our carobs are already harvested in an organic field, mainly planted with olive trees, located a few kilometres from our laboratory. We do not use any food of animal origin and are Vegan certified. We chose to invest in carob, a true superfood, because we believe that food is not only nourishment, but also a tool for well-being. Our products are not just free of added sugars, preservatives, additives and flavourings: they aim to provide tangible health benefits, such as a low glycemic index and a positive impact on the gut microbiota. This is thanks to our cold carob extract, rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals and active antioxidants. A natural sweetener that combines goodness, wellness and innovation, obtained through the patented Carrubaviva process.

2. Through which good practices - also in the way products are delivered and in the choice of distribution channels (e.g. Horeca) - can your company be said to be sustainable?

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Natura Humana. We firmly believe that the well-being of the consumer and that of the planet are closely linked, which is why we adopt virtuous practices at every stage of our work.
For starters, we only use fresh Apulian carob from local crops in organic conversion. This short supply chain approach allows us to reduce the environmental impact of transporting raw materials and to support sustainable agriculture in our region. Even the packaging reflects our commitment to the environment. For our products, we choose recyclable materials, such as glass, which guarantee quality and freshness. For shipping, we opt for eco-friendly packaging, avoiding unnecessary plastic and, whenever possible, recycling the plastic we receive from suppliers. In addition, we are committed to giving new life to waste from carob processing. We are developing innovative projects to transform it into useful products, such as fibre-rich granola or raw flour, thus helping to reduce waste.
Every decision we make stems from the desire to combine innovation, quality and respect for the environment, because we are convinced that taking care of the planet also means taking care of people.
Has the growing consumer demand for healthy/healthy food prompted you to provide more innovative solutions?
Absolutely. Natura Humana was born out of the need to offer solutions that combined taste and wellness in an innovative way, without compromise. Our patent for the cold extraction of carob allows us to preserve all its nutritional properties, offering a product rich in fibre, with a low glycaemic index and an ideal texture for multiple uses, from breakfast to desserts. It is the heart of all our products.

4. How do your solutions contribute to improving the out-of-home customer experience?

We have in the pipeline the development of carob-based snacks, sweetened with our extract. We hope that 2025 will be the year when we will be able to bring this project to life.

5. How do you integrate traceability and transparency into your production chain?

On traceability, we are true champions of the short supply chain: we harvest, process and package our products directly in our factory. We promote transparent communication through our social channels, website and customer service. We are always available to answer questions or specific requests, because we want every customer to feel part of a reliable and transparent supply chain. Our score of 4.8 on Trustpilot is a source of great pride for us.

6. Internationality: Has your company explored foreign markets? If yes, from which countries do you receive the most positive feedback? And for which types of products?

Yes, Natura Humana has started to explore foreign markets, focusing mainly on Switzerland and France, two countries that are particularly attentive to healthy, plant-based and sustainable nutrition. Among the most popular products are Mu Mu, a natural sweetener with no added sugar, which is versatile and ideal for those who are looking for healthy and innovative alternatives, and the spreads, which are loved for their rich but balanced taste, perfect for pampering yourself without feeling guilty thanks to the absence of preservatives. We are still at the beginning of our international journey, but these early successes encourage us to continue. The goal is to consolidate our presence in these markets and continue to expand the network, always remaining faithful to our values of quality and authenticity