Reimagining Functional Food: Bio Ice Cream Dots Paves the Way for Europe’s Sustainable and Inclusive Innovation

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TL;DR:

Food as Medicine: A Tasty Revolution from Poland

At the heart of Europe’s innovation ecosystem, Bio Ice Cream Dots is transforming the future of food with a mission as bold as its flavour combinations.

Founded by Polish entrepreneur Malgorzata Osiecka-Ciuhak, the company is creating a new generation of functional foods that merge cryogenic technology with probiotics, fibre, and superfoods — offering a delicious, nutritious alternative to traditional processed snacks.

What started as a personal quest for healthier indulgences has evolved into a pioneering venture that aligns seamlessly with the European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass package, supporting Europe’s journey as the global hub for skills, innovation, and societal impact.

“Our mission is simple: food as medicine,” says Osiecka-Ciuhak.
“It’s about giving people — especially children and young people — healthy, accessible alternatives to the sweets they love. We dream of a world where supermarkets are filled with tasty products that are also nourishing and sustainable.”

This approach addresses not only Europe’s Startup and Scaleup Strategy, but also the Union of Skills Strategy, fostering an environment where entrepreneurs turn STEM research into societal solutions.

Sustainability and Innovation in Action

Located in the eco-friendly surroundings of Długosiodło, near Warsaw, Bio Ice Cream Dots has harnessed the power of cryogenics to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in the production process.

By eliminating artificial additives and embracing 100% organic ingredients, the team has created an innovative dessert that reflects the AI Continent Action Plan’s drive for sustainable, human-centred technology across all sectors, including agri-food.

The EIT Jumpstarter Next Programme: From Idea to Impact

The journey to this point has been fuelled in large part by support from the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), particularly through the EIT Food Accelerator Network and the EIT Jumpstarter Next programme.

“The Jumpstarter was a game-changer for us,” explains Osiecka-Ciuhak.
“It gave me the business acumen, pitch training and confidence to step onto the European stage. Before, I struggled to explain our technology in a simple, powerful way. Now, thanks to the mentorship and critical feedback we received, I can communicate our value clearly and concisely.”

The EIT Jumpstarter, a flagship EU initiative, is an essential element of the European Commission’s STEM Education Strategic Plan — aiming to build a highly skilled workforce, particularly in Widening countries like Poland.

Thanks to EIT Jumpstarter Next, Bio Ice Cream Dots transformed their vision into a market-ready product — learning how to refine their target audience, improve their business model, and make their functional food truly fit for European consumers.

“They taught me that innovation without values is just noise. With values, it becomes real change.”

Empowering Women and Building Skills for the Future

Gender equality has also been at the heart of Bio Ice Cream Dots’ story.

Osiecka-Ciuhak first discovered the EIT through the Empowering Women in Agrifood programme.

“That experience connected me with other female founders across Europe. We still support each other, sharing wins and challenges. Women in STEM and entrepreneurship need those networks to thrive.”

Despite financial hurdles typical for food-tech startups — a sector often overshadowed by AI and software in venture capital circles — Bio Ice Cream Dots is:

  • Scaling production
  • Preparing to launch its functional ice cream range in European markets

With flavours ranging from fruity favourites to a cold-brew coffee shot designed as a healthier energy boost for young adults, the company is targeting niche markets first — with plans to expand as demand grows.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Bio Ice Cream Dots is seeking strategic partners in the food retail and manufacturing industries to bring their product to wider audiences.

Osiecka-Ciuhak continues to explore EU funding opportunities aligned with the European Competitiveness Compass, reinforcing the project’s commitment to tackling key societal challenges:

  • Nutrition
  • Sustainability
  • Health
“This is the food of the future — functional, sustainable, and made with love for the next generation.”

Follow Bio Ice Cream Dots:

Learn more about the company on the official website or connect with them on LinkedIn.