Protein-packed foods have been a popular diet trend recently. As more people are switching to plant-based regimens, getting adequate amounts of protein has become a priority.
Chicago food startups, like Vital Proteins and Prommus Hummus, have jumped on the trend, making protein-packed collagen supplements and hummus products, respectively. But the latest Chicago startup to jump onto the trend is Unicreamer, which is making a high-protein and vegan coffee cream powder.
Lori Lefcourt, co-founder of Unicreamer, said she began to reevaltue her diet when she began having weight and skin issues. To combat her newfound health concerns, she became vegetarian. Her new diet also came with new requirements—she needed more ways to get plant-based protein.
“I knew I had to change things up,” Lefcourt said. “I started to incorporate a lot more protein into my day and what I found was that it kept me very focused and more full because protein is a very satiating macronutrient.”
She began putting protein powder in her morning coffee. Though it was a bit chunky because those powders aren’t designed to dissolve in coffee, it did give her the idea for a protein-heavy coffee cream powder.
She then shared her idea with her sister, Elise Lefcourt, and together they launched Unicreamer in March.
Unicreamer, which has 5 grams of protein per serving, comes in three flavors: hazelnut, mocha and a combo option. Two more flavors are coming later this year: vanilla bean and original, which is comparable to the taste of half-and-half.
“People are looking for extra sources of plant protein, and we can give you this when you drink your coffee,” Lori said. “A lot of people are trying to add more protein into their morning routines because it keeps them fuller for longer.”
There are other vegan coffee creamers on the market, like Califia Farms and Wildwood, but the founders said they don't have the added protein like Unicreamer does.
The founders wouldn’t disclose how many bags of Unicreamer they’ve sold since launching but said they surpassed their target goal during the first month of operation.
Their products, manufactured in Long Island, New York, retail for $13.85 for a six-pack bag. A 12-pack costs about $26, and a monthly supply costs $59. They can be found on the startup’s website, though the creamers will be available on Amazon later this month. The founders said they are also looking to partner with grocery chains in the future.
Once they start making a considerable profit, the founders said they want to donate a portion of their revenue to animal welfare initiatives.
“We really focus on being a mission-driven company,” Lori said. “We do aim to make a really big difference in animal welfare on a global scale.”
To help grow the brand, the founders said they have launched an affiliate marketing program for Instagram and other social media influencers. The founders work out of co-working office evolveHer, where they had their launch party when the company was founded.
